Summer calls for light, refreshing, and fuss-free desserts that capture the season’s vibrant flavors. From creamy no-bake treats to fruity delights, these 20 summer desserts are perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or lazy afternoons by the pool.
Each recipe is simple to make, packed with seasonal ingredients, and sure to impress your family and friends. Grab your mixing bowls, fire up your creativity, and dive into these sweet summer sensations that make every moment deliciously unforgettable.
See also: 20 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes
1. Mango Float
This tropical treat layers juicy mangoes with creamy whipped cream and crunchy graham crackers. It’s a no-bake dessert that comes together in minutes, perfect for hot summer days when you want something cool and refreshing.
The sweet, ripe mangoes shine, while the creamy layers melt in your mouth. Chill it in the refrigerator for a few hours, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort. Serve it straight from the fridge for a dessert that screams summer.
2. Blueberry Cheesecake Icebox Cake
This no-bake delight combines creamy cheesecake filling with bursts of fresh blueberries and layers of graham crackers. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for summer gatherings. The blueberries add a sweet-tart pop, while the creamy layers keep it rich yet airy.
Assemble it in a baking dish, let it chill overnight, and slice it up for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s a low-effort treat that looks like you spent hours.
3. Peach Cobbler Cheesecake
Combining the comfort of peach cobbler with the richness of cheesecake, this dessert is a summer showstopper. Juicy peaches are nestled in a creamy cheesecake base, topped with a buttery crumble.
Bake it in a springform pan for easy slicing. The warm, spiced peach flavor pairs perfectly with the cool, creamy texture, making it ideal for summer evenings. It’s a bit more involved but worth every second.
4. Strawberry Shortcake
Nothing says summer like strawberry shortcake. Fluffy biscuits, sweet strawberries, and whipped cream create a classic dessert that’s light and satisfying. Slice fresh strawberries, whip up some cream, and bake or buy soft biscuits.
Layer them together for a dessert that’s quick to assemble and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for picnics or a casual summer night with friends.
5. Lemon Squares
These tangy lemon squares feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a zesty lemon curd. They’re baked to perfection in a baking pan, then dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
The bright, citrusy flavor is refreshing on hot days, and their portable size makes them great for sharing. Whip these up for a tart, crowd-pleasing treat that’s simple yet elegant.
See also: 20 Easy Dinner Recipes For Family
6. S’mores
Capture campfire vibes with gooey s’mores. Toast marshmallows over a grill or oven, then sandwich them with chocolate between graham crackers.
The melty, sweet combo is a summer classic that kids and adults love. No campfire? Use a microwave for a quick indoor version. It’s messy, fun, and perfect for any summer night.
7. Ice Cream Sandwiches
Cool off with homemade ice cream sandwiches. Sandwich your favorite ice cream between soft cookies for a customizable treat. Use chocolate chip cookies or try sugar cookies for variety.
Freeze them in a freezer until firm, then enjoy a creamy, chewy dessert that’s perfect for poolside snacking. Kids will love helping with this one.
8. No-Bake Strawberry Lemon Swirl Tart
This no-bake tart combines sweet strawberries and tangy lemons in a creamy filling, set in a graham cracker crust. Swirl the two flavors together for a stunning presentation.
Chill it in the fridge for a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer parties. It’s easy to make, looks fancy, and delivers a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.
9. Magic Cake
This unique dessert magically forms three layers while baking: a custardy bottom, creamy middle, and fluffy top. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, milk, and flour, it’s baked in a baking dish.
The light, airy texture makes it a perfect summer treat. Serve it chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar for a dessert that feels like pure magic.
10. Key Lime Pie
This zesty, creamy pie is a summer must-have, with a silky lime filling in a buttery graham cracker crust. Its tart, refreshing flavor is perfect for barbecues and beach days.
Serve chilled with whipped cream for a cool, crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to whip up. Whether hosting a backyard bash or craving a tropical escape, this classic delivers sunshine in every bite.
See also: Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
11. Pickle Popsicles
For a quirky summer treat, try pickle popsicles. Blend pickle juice with a touch of sugar and freeze in popsicle molds. These tangy, savory pops are surprisingly refreshing and perfect for adventurous eaters.
They’re a fun way to cool off and add a unique twist to your summer dessert lineup. Great for BBQs or as a conversation starter.
12. Berry Sheet Pan Shortcake
This oversized shortcake is baked on a sheet pan and topped with mixed berries and whipped cream. It’s a crowd-friendly dessert that’s easy to slice and serve.
The buttery cake base pairs perfectly with the juicy berries, making it a fresh, summery treat. Ideal for large gatherings, it’s a low-fuss way to feed a crowd with minimal effort.
13. Double Berry Mascarpone Cobbler
This cobbler blends blueberries and raspberries with creamy mascarpone for a rich, fruity dessert. Bake it in a casserole dish with a buttery biscuit topping. The berries burst with flavor, while the mascarpone adds a luxurious touch. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting summer treat.
14. Watergate Salad Cake
This retro-inspired dessert turns the classic Watergate salad into a fluffy cake. Mix pistachio pudding into the batter, then top with whipped topping and pineapple.
Bake in a cake pan for a light, tropical treat. Its vibrant green hue and sweet, nutty flavor make it a fun, nostalgic addition to summer parties.
15. Wacky Cake
This Depression-era chocolate cake is egg-free and uses pantry staples like cocoa powder and vinegar. Mix it directly in a baking pan and bake for a moist, fudgy dessert.
Its simplicity makes it perfect for last-minute summer cravings. Dust with powdered sugar or top with frosting for extra sweetness. It’s a budget-friendly treat that never goes out of style.
See also: Easy Iced Coffee Recipe
16. Lavender Macarons
Delicate lavender macarons are a sophisticated summer dessert. Made with almond flour and filled with a floral buttercream, these cookies are light and elegant.
Use a piping bag to shape them, then bake on a baking sheet. The subtle lavender flavor adds a summery twist, perfect for tea parties or special occasions.
17. Espresso Brownies
Rich brownies get a kick from espresso powder in this indulgent treat. Bake them in a baking pan for fudgy squares that pair perfectly with a cold iced coffee.
The bold coffee flavor enhances the chocolate, making these brownies a grown-up summer dessert. Cut them small for bite-sized treats or go big for a decadent indulgence.
18. Mango Sago
This Asian-inspired dessert features sweet mangoes and chewy sago pearls in a creamy coconut milk base. Chill it in the fridge for a refreshing, tropical treat.
It’s light, slightly chewy, and bursting with mango flavor. Perfect for hot days, this dessert is easy to make and feels like a mini vacation in every spoonful.
19. Homemade Strawberry Cake
This vibrant strawberry cake uses fresh strawberries for a naturally pink hue and fruity flavor. Bake it in a cake pan and frost with cream cheese frosting.
It’s moist, tender, and perfect for summer birthdays or gatherings. The fresh strawberry taste makes every bite feel like a warm summer day.
20. Watermelon Sorbet
Beat the summer heat with Watermelon Sorbet, a refreshing dessert bursting with juicy flavor! This icy treat combines sweet watermelon with a zesty hint of lime or mint, creating a light, dairy-free delight perfect for warm days.
Its vibrant pink hue and smooth texture make it a crowd-pleaser at poolside gatherings or family picnics. With just a few simple ingredients and a blender, you can whip up this sorbet in minutes, no ice cream maker required. Serve it in chilled bowls or scoop it into cones for a playful twist.
See also: Easy Mojito Recipe
Tips for Making Summer Desserts
Choose Seasonal Ingredients
Summer is the time for fresh fruits like berries, peaches, and mangoes. They’re at their peak, so your desserts will taste better and cost less. Visit a local farmer’s market for the freshest picks.
Keep It Cool
Many of these desserts, like ice cream sandwiches and mango float, are no-bake or served cold. Use your refrigerator or freezer to keep things refreshing on hot days.
Simplify with Tools
Invest in a good mixer or food processor to make prep easier. A baking sheet or springform pan can also streamline your baking process.
Make It Fun
Get the kids involved with easy recipes like s’mores or dessert boards. They’ll love helping, and it’s a great way to make summer memories.
Why These Desserts Work for Summer
These recipes are designed to keep you cool and make the most of summer’s bounty. They’re simple, so you don’t need to be a pro baker, and they use ingredients you likely already have or can easily find.
From no-bake options to crowd-pleasing classics, there’s something for every occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a big summer bash. Plus, they’re versatile, swap in your favorite fruits or add a personal twist to make them your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Desserts
1. What makes a dessert ideal for summer?
Summer desserts are ideal when they’re light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. They often use seasonal fruits like berries or mangoes for vibrant flavor. No-bake options, like mango float or ice cream sandwiches, keep your kitchen cool.
Chilled treats served from the refrigerator or freezer are perfect for hot days, making them both practical and delicious.
2. Can I make summer desserts ahead of time?
Yes, many summer desserts are perfect for prepping ahead. No-bake treats like blueberry cheesecake icebox cake or no-bake strawberry lemon swirl tart set in the fridge overnight.
Lemon squares and espresso brownies can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. This makes them great for stress-free entertaining.
3. How can I make summer desserts kid-friendly?
Kids love helping with simple recipes like s’mores or ice cream sandwiches. Let them layer graham crackers or scoop ice cream.
Dessert boards are fun, letting kids pick their favorite cookies or fruits. Use safe tools like plastic knives and avoid hot surfaces to keep it safe and enjoyable.
4. Are there summer desserts for special diets?
Absolutely! Wacky cake is naturally egg-free, great for vegan diets if you skip butter. Mango sago can be made with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
For gluten-free, try lavender macarons with almond flour. Swap sugar for alternatives like honey in some recipes to suit dietary needs.
5. How do I keep summer desserts fresh in the heat?
Store desserts like strawberry shortcake or peach cobbler cheesecake in the refrigerator until serving. Use a cooler with ice packs for outdoor events.
For frozen treats like pickle popsicles, keep them in a freezer until the last moment. Serve in small batches to maintain freshness and avoid melting.
See also: Easy Homemade Lemonade Recipe
Conclusion
Summer desserts should be as fun and carefree as the season itself. These 20 recipes bring bold flavors, easy prep, and plenty of joy to your table.
Whether you’re craving something fruity, creamy, or chocolatey, you’ll find a treat that hits the spot. So grab your mixing bowls, round up some fresh ingredients, and start creating sweet summer memories. Which dessert will you try first?
Looking for more delicious recipes? Here are a few of my favorites!
- Best Apple Crisp Recipe
- Easy Carrot Cake Recipe
- Best Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Best Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Fluffy & Easy Pancake Recipe
