Complementing the Savory: 13 Delicious Desserts to Serve with Pork Chops

Pork chops make for a satisfying and flavorful meal. But what should you serve for dessert when pork is the main event? The options are endless, but it helps to keep a few guiding principles in mind.

Desserts that complement (rather than compete with) the savory flavors of pork often work best. Tart fruit, rich chocolate, and classic baked goods are all great options. Read on for 13 can’t-miss desserts that will perfectly cap off your pork chop dinner.

1. Carrot Cake

Warm spices like cinnamon nutmeg and cloves are natural partners for pork. Carrot cake puts these flavors front and center. The sweet frosting balances the warmth of the spices. Nuts add crunch, while raisins provide bursts of fruitiness. For best results, accompany your pork with a slice of homemade carrot cake using fresh grated carrots.

2. Brownies

Few can resist the chocolatey appeal of brownies. Their deep, bittersweet chocolate flavor contrasts beautifully with juicy, savory pork. Brownies also have a fudgy texture that differs from the tenderness of pork. Customize your brownies with chocolate chunks, nuts, or swirls of peanut butter to take them over the top.

3. Easy Chocolate Mousse

Light and airy chocolate mousse is a breeze to whip up and the perfect petite dessert to follow pork chops. The bittersweet chocolate pairs flawlessly with the bold flavors of grilled or pan-fried pork. Make it ahead of time so it’s ready when you are. Garnish with berries or piped whipped cream to add a touch of elegance.

4. No-Bake Oatmeal Chocolate Bars

Chewy no-bake bars are a homey, easy dessert that complements pork’s down-to-earth flavors. Oats, chocolate, coconut, and peanut butter meld into a protein-packed, grab-and-go treat. Customize with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. Slice them small since they’re rich.

5. Blueberry Crumble Bars

The balance of sweet and tart in blueberry crumble bars forms the ideal counterpoint to savory pork. As the bars bake, the blueberry juices transform into a jammy filling, while a crispy oat topping provides toothsome contrast. Other berries, like raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries also pair wonderfully with pork.

6. Tiramisu

This Italian dessert combines airy mascarpone cheese and ladyfingers soaked in sweetened espresso. The mixture of flavors and textures complements pork’s juiciness and spice rubs beautifully. The coffee also aids digestion after a hearty meal. For added flair, dust your tiramisu with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.

7. Lemon Blueberry Bread

Quick bread makes a homey, comforting dessert for pork dinner. The tang of lemon brightens the sweetness of the blueberries and brings out pork’s flavors. For variety, try different add-ins like walnuts, cranberries, or white chocolate chips. Slice the bread and serve it warm right out of the oven if you can.

8. Strawberry Lemon Blondies

Buttery, lemony blondies studded with strawberries make for a memorable dessert with pork. The sweet-tart strawberries cut through the fattiness of pork while lemon zest adds sunshine. Blondies come together fast, so you can whip up a pan once the main course comes out of the oven.

9. No-Bake Cookie Dough Bites

Craving cookie dough? These no-bake cookie dough bites deliver without turning on the oven. Mix a simple dough then roll into balls and dip in chocolate for an instant dessert that pairs perfectly with pork’s richness. Use any combination of chocolate and nut butter you like. Refrigerate until serving so they firm up.

10. Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake

Tender chocolate chip cake is a crowd-pleaser dessert for any occasion. The sprinkle of chocolate chips gives just enough sweetness without overpowering the pork. Turn it into a sheet cake for easier slicing. Add a dusting of powdered sugar or dollop of whipped cream for a little decadence.

11. Classic Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is a summer classic with good reason. Fresh strawberries, fluffy biscuits, and whipped cream make a stellar dessert for pork chops. The sweet-tart strawberries cut through pork’s fattiness, while the biscuit soaks up any savory sauces or pan juices.

12. Chocolate Chip Cookies

Warm from the oven, chocolate chip cookies are a delicious capper to pork dinner. The semisweet chocolate balances the savory flavors of pork. While any chocolate chip cookie recipe will do, brown butter or cinnamon variations add extra flair. Grab a cold glass of milk while you’re at it.

13. Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

Thick and chewy peanut butter cookie bars with melted peanut butter cups take the classic cookie up a notch. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter perfectly offsets a savory pork meal. And the bars come together in a single pan for easy transporting and serving to guests.

With options from cookies to cake to fruit desserts, you’re sure to find the perfect sweet ending after your savory pork chop dinner. Now invite some friends over and get ready for rave reviews of the entire meal!