Enjoying tasty treats doesn't have to be expensive - at least as long as you don't overdo it. Here we share 10 treats that might taste fancy and decadent, but don't be deceived - they are actually quite easy on your budget! So save this list for the next time you want to enjoy something gourmet, but don't want to spend your whole paycheck doing it.
Fancy Ice Cream
While you could always go for the cheap ice cream, the fancier versions just taste so much better - and as long as you don't plan on finishing a whole tub in one sitting, it's also quite affordable. Just compare it to going out for ice cream, and it becomes the budget option. Add some extras like chocolate sauce and sprinkles for an even better treat!
Donuts
I could eat donuts for days, and there's nothing better than hitting up a new donut spot and trying all their flavors. For an affordable weekend treat, get together with a few friends, buy a couple of new flavors, and have a donut tasting! They will still cost you, but you can bring them home and save on coffee, and you'll get to try multiple flavors while just paying for one.
Elote
No street food can ever beat a good Elote - and you can make it at home as well, which will cost you next to nothing. Stock up on your favorite Elote spices and you can make it any time desire strikes. Want to take it to the next level? Make an Elote dip inspired by the Trader Joe's version, or Elote mac and cheese.
Fruit Salad
Fruit salads can be made in so many ways and you can use your favorite toppings to take it up a notch. I love mixing classic and exotic fruits and topping with whipped cream and crushed chocolate. It's a treat so good, I don't mind staying in!
Buttered Popcorn with Extras
Buttered popcorn in itself is a delicious treat, but you can make it even better with some extras. Add a bit of nutritional yeast and your favorite seasoned salt, or go big with shredded Parmesan cheese and a touch of truffle oil. It's a great way to level up popcorn for an easy snack that feels kinda fancy!
Artichokes
Depending on the season, you can find artichokes really cheap - and then all you need to add is a bit of butter or vinaigrette. It's a cheap, delicious treat you can have as an appetizer, a snack, or as part of a buffet. Max out on flavor by topping it with Tajin seasoning, and dipping the leaves in whipped lemon butter.
Homemade Paella
There's nothing quite like a pan of paella on the Barcelona seaside, but even if that's out of the question for now, you can still enjoy this dish! This homemade version takes simple ingredients and a touch of saffron and creates a homestyle version that won't break the bank - but does taste amazing!
Edamame
If you ask me, edamame beans are the royals of beans. Steam or roast them and eat them just as they are, or dip them in a nice sauce - or just plain soy sauce. Or try any of the flavor-packed versions out there that take this simple bean and make it the star of its own flavorful snack.
Truffle Risotto
Truffle risotto might sound fancy, and it is! But while real truffles are worth their weight in gold, truffle oil is much, much, cheaper. Add fresh mushrooms and risotto, and you have a dinner worthy of any fancy restaurant.
Croissants
There's no fancier breakfast than a perfectly baked croissant! It's so simple and elegant-no wonder it's a Paris staple. If the bakery version is too expensive, there are many great bake-off versions out there, and I always keep a bag in the freezer for my weekend breakfast needs.
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