30+ Irresistible Summer Desserts
Do you know what the best part of summer is? It’s the summer desserts! Cold, creamy, fruity, and refreshing—every bite feels like escape from the heat. Desserts for summer are the kind of treat that makes the burning sun feel less intense and the warm days a lot sweeter.
A spoonful of ice cream that melts too fast, a slice of pie bursting with fresh berries, or a chilled pudding that feels like a reward after a long and lazy afternoon. Even the simplest things—like a drizzle of honey over yogurt or a bowl of watermelon cubes—somehow taste so much better when the air is warm and the days stretch out like they will never end.
If summer had a flavor, it would be found in these awesome summer desserts! From frozen treats to light cakes, fruity crisps to creamy puddings, there’s something in this list for every craving. Here are 50+ summer dessert ideas to keep things cool, sweet, and absolutely delicious all season long.
Summer Desserts
Summer heat calls for something sweet! These 30+ best summer desserts are delicious, refreshing, and just what you need to stay cool all season long.
1. No-Bake Mango Coconut Cheesecake
Nothing says summer like the combination of creamy coconut and sweet, juicy mango!
This no-bake cheesecake is light, tropical, and irresistibly smooth, with a golden mango topping that tastes like sunshine on a spoon. The best part? No oven is needed—just a little patience while it chills.
How to make it?
Start by crushing about 10 graham crackers into fine crumbs, then mix them with ¼ cup of melted butter. Next, you have to press this into the bottom of a springform pan and chill it while you prepare the filling.
In a bowl, beat 16 ounces of cream cheese with half a cup of sugar until smooth. Add 1 cup of coconut milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then mix until it’s creamy. Separately, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture. Spread this over the crust and smooth the top.
It’ll be good to refrigerate for at least four years, but overnight is even better. For the mango topping, blend 1 cup of ripe mango with a tablespoon of honey. Pour it over the chilled cheesecake before serving, and for an extra touch, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top.
Slice, serve, and enjoy tropical bliss!
2. Grilled Pineapple with Honey Lime Drizzle
Sweet, smoky, and caramelized to perfection—grilled pineapple is one of those simple summer treats that feels like pure bliss. The heat brings out its natural sweetness, while a drizzle of honey-lime syrup adds just the right amount of tangy freshness.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether served alone, with ice cream, or as a side to a summer BBQ!
How to make it?
Peel and core a fresh pineapple. Next, slice it into ½-inch thick rounds and brush each piece lightly with melted butter to help with caramelization. Heat a grill to medium and place the pineapple slices directly on the grates. Grill for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown with distinct char marks.
In the meantime, whisk together two tablespoons of honey, the juice of one lime, and a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, citrusy kick. Once the pineapple slices are off the grill, drizzle the honey-lime mixture over them and serve immediately.
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3. Lemon Blueberry Frozen Yogurt Bark
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing treat, this frozen yogurt bark is perfect for you! The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with sweet blueberries, while a little crunch from granola makes every bite even tastier. The best part is that it’s easy to make, fun to customize, and the kind of snack you will keep reaching on hot days.
How to make it?
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, mix 2 cups of greek yogurt with 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the zest of 1 lemon in a big bowl. Evenly spread the mixture evenly onto the lined baking sheet, about ¼ inch thick.
Now, all that’s left to do is to sprinkle a generous handful of fresh blueberries and crushed granola over the yogurt, pressing in slightly so they stick to the base. Freeze for at least 3 hours, until completely firm. Once set, break into pieces and enjoy a cool, creamy, and slightly crunchy summer snack!
4. Shortcake Ice-cream Sandwiches with fresh berries
Flaky, buttery shortcakes meet creamy vanilla ice cream and fresh summer berries in this delicious dessert. It’s the perfect mix of soft and crunchy, warm and cold, making every bite taste like pure sunshine!
How to make it?
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Next, whisk together 2 cups of flour, ¼ cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Cut in half cup of cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in ¾ cup of heavy cream until just combined.
Roll out the dough to about ¾-inch thick and cut into circles. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until you get golden brown results, then let them cool completely.
In the meantime, toss one cup of sliced strawberries, half a cup of raspberries, and half of blueberries with 2 tablespoons of sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes. Slice each shortcake in half, place a vanilla scoop of ice cream in between, and spoon over the juicy berry mixture.
Gently press the top biscuit down and serve immediately!
5. Gourmet Bubble Waffle with fresh strawberries
Soft and airy on the inside and crispy on the outside—bubble waffles are the ultimate base for a next-level summer dessert! Top them with fresh strawberries, a drizzle of chocolate, and a scoop of ice cream, and you have got a treat that looks straight out of a fancy dessert shop.
How to make it?
In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, beat 2 eggs with ½ cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in ¾ cup of milk, ¼ cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until smooth.
Heat a bubble waffle maker and lightly grease it. Pour in about ½ cup of batter and cook until golden and crispy. Carefully remove and shape it into a cone while warm.
Fill the waffle with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream, then top with fresh-sliced strawberries. Drizzle with melted chocolate or a touch of honey for extra sweetness. Enjoy immediately while the waffle is warm and the ice cream is perfectly melty!
6. Pavlova meringue dessert
A dessert that is as stunning as it is tasty, pavlova is all about contrasts—a soft marshmallowy center, crisp edges, and fresh, juicy toppings. Light yet indulgent, it’s a perfect summer treat!
How to make it?
Whip 4 egg whites until soft peaks form, then slowly add 1 cup of sugar, beating until thick and glossy. Gently fold in 1 teaspoon of vinegar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Shape into a nest on a lined baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 90 minutes. Let it cool completely.
Top with a generous layer of whipped cream, fresh berries, and a drizzle of passionfruit or honey for a perfect balance of sweetness and tang!
7. Strawberry Pie
Nothing says summer like a slice of fresh strawberry pie! With a flaky crust, juicy berries, and a sweet, glossy filling, it’s the kind of dessert that feels both refreshing and nostalgic.
How to make it?
Bake a 9-inch pie crust until golden and let it cool. In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of mashed strawberries with ¾ cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, stirring until thickened. Let it cool slightly.
Fill the pie crust with fresh halved strawberries, then pour the glaze over the top. Chill for at least 2 hours, then serve with a dollop of whipped cream. Simple, sweet, and perfect for summer!
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8. Orange Granita
Refreshing, cool, and citrusy, orange granita is like summer in a spoonful. It’s icy, slightly sweet, and melts on your tongue—perfect for hot days when you need something light and revitalizing.
How to make it?
Mix two cups of freshly squeezed orange juice with ¼ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice until dissolved. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and keep it in the refrigerator for freezing. Every 30 minutes, scrape the surface with a fork to create fluffy ice crystals. Repeat until fully frozen, about 3 hours.
Scoop into bowls and serve with a sprig of mint or a zest of orange for extra freshness!
9. Watermelon Sorbet Cocktail
No matter how many desserts you try, nothing beats an ice-cold, fruity cocktail on a hot summer day—especially when it doubles as dessert! So, if you’re looking for something smooth and refreshing, this watermelon sorbet cocktail is just the right balance of sweet and tangy.
How to make it?
Blend four cups of frozen watermelon chunks with 2 tablespoons of lime juice and ¼ cup of sugar until its silky smooth. Freeze for about two hours and keep stirring it occasionally so the mix remains light and scoopable.
Once done, scoop and serve in a glass, topped with a splash of sparkling wine or vodka. You can also garnish with fresh mint for extra flavors!
10. Banana Pudding
Creamy, dreamy, and packed with layers of banana goodness, this fruit dessert is pure comfort in every bite! With soft vanilla flavors, velvety pudding, and fresh bananas, it’s the kind of treat that never goes out of style.
How to make it?
In a saucepan, whisk together two cups of milk, two egg yolks, ½ cup of sugar, and ¼ cup of cornstarch over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened, then remove from heat and mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let it cool down slightly!
In a dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding, repeating until full. Top with whipped cream and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
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Fruit Dessert Recipes
Sun-ripened mangoes, juicy berries, and zesty citruș—fruits are nature’s sweetest gifts for summer. There’s something about the way fresh fruit transforms into a dessert that makes every bite feel light, refreshing, and just right for warm days.
From golden, fruit-filled bakes to no-bake treats, these fruit desserts bring out the best in seasonal flavors. Let’s dig in!
11. Raspberry Tart with a Pistachio Crust
A buttery pistachio crust, tangy raspberry filling, and just the right touch of sweetness—this raspberry tart is the kind of dessert that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. The nutty crunch of the crust pairs perfectly with the bright, jammy raspberries, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Find the full recipe here: Food & Wine
12. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
Only a few desserts are as effortlessly delicious as chocolate-covered strawberries! The contrast between smooth, velvety chocolate and juicy, ripe berries makes this a go-to recipe for any occasion. Dress them up with a drizzle, a sprinkle of nuts, or a dusting of sea salt for an extra touch of flavor.
Find the full recipe here: The Pioneer Woman
13. Watermelon Pizza
Why turn on the oven when you can make a delicious dessert without it? A thick, juicy slice of watermelon serves as the perfect base, topped with creamy yogurt spread, vibrant berries, and a drizzle of honey.
The natural sweetness of the fruit, paired with the tangy yogurt and crunchy toppings, makes every bite a refreshing treat. This recipe is the perfect example of summer snacking at its best!
Find the full recipe here: Good Housekeeping
14. Lemon Lush
Are you looking for an easy summer dessert that can be made ahead and is ideal for gatherings? Try this one!
The Lemon Lush dessert features layers of creamy goodness atop a buttery vanilla cookie crust. The combination of tangy lemon pudding and smooth cream cheese creates a refreshing treat that is just perfect for warm days.
Find the full recipe here: Southern Living
15. Easy Apple Walnut Crumble Pie
Imagine the comforting aroma of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples mingling with the nutty scent of toasted walnuts, all wrapped up in a flaky, buttery crust!
This Apple Walnut Crumble Pie brings together crunchy walnuts and tender apple slices beneath a golden crumble topping. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Find the full recipe here: Also The Crumbs Please
Easy summer desserts
When the sun is blazing and the days feel super long, the last thing you want is to spend hours in a heated kitchen. That’s where easy summer dessert ideas come in handy—sweet treats that are simple to prepare, delightfully tasty, and perfect for any summer occasion!
Here are some of the easiest summer sweets that will let you satisfy your sweet tooth without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to a picnic, or just craving something sweet after dinner, these easy recipes have got you covered.
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16. 1930’s Einkorn Chocolate Cake
Have you ever found yourself craving a rich, chocolatey cake but realized you were out of milk and eggs? That’s exactly where I was when I stumbled upon this gem from A Modern Homestead.
Born out of the resourceful cooking of the Great Depression, the Wacky Cake is a testament to creativity in the kitchen.
This version uses einkorn flour, an ancient grain known for its nutritional benefits and rich flavor. Despite being free of dairy and eggs, this cake delivers a moist chocolatey indulgence that’s both budget-friendly and easy to make.
It is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone craving a quick, sweet treat.
Find the full recipe here: A Modern Homestead.
17. Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars
Daydreaming about the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but short on time? This recipe is your answer!
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars capture the essence of traditional cinnamon rolls in a convenient bar form—soft, gooey, brimming with sweet cinnamon and vanilla aromas. It’s perfect for afternoon snacks, brunch, or satisfying late-night cravings. Try it once, as these bars have the ability to become a household favorite!
Find the full recipe here: Liza Recipes
18. Super Easy Mini Whiskey Oatmeal Cream Pies
Are you looking for one of the simplest summer desserts? We have just that for you!
Remember those soft, chewy oatmeal cream pies from your childhood? This recipe brings them back with an adult twist by adding a hint of whiskey to the marshmallow cream filling. The cookies are soft and moist and made with brown sugar, butter, and a touch of molasses, while the whiskey-infused filling adds a subtle kick that elevates the classic treat. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging in a personal treat.
Find the full recipe here: Food Plus Words.
19. Dulce de Leche Mousse
Craving a quick, indulgent dessert? This Dulce de Leche Mousse is an absolute treat!
In just five minutes and with only four simple ingredients—dulce de leche (or your favorite tinned caramel), double cream, full-fat cream cheese, and a pinch of salt—you whip up a creamy and rich mousse that bursts with caramel flavor.
The velvety texture and deep, satisfying sweetness make it a perfect dessert when you’re short on time but still want to impress. Enjoy it chilled on a warm day, or top it with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a handful of toasted nuts for an extra crunch. It’s a luxurious yet effortless dessert that will become a favorite for any occasion.
Find the full recipe here:The Cinnamon Jar
20. Vegan Biscoff Truffles
When you are looking for a sweet treat without the fuss of baking, these cheesecake bites deliver in a flash. They pack all the creamy goodness of traditional cheesecake into a simple, bite-sized delight with a crisp, buttery base. I love how quick and fun they are to make—perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings at home.
No oven, no hassle—just pure, delicious dessert.
No-Bake Summer Desserts
Skip the oven and beat the heat with these no-bake summer dessert recipes! When the temperature soars, there’s nothing better than whipping up a cool treat that doesn’t require any baking.
These top-rated summer desserts are designed to be super simple, refreshingly satisfying, and perfect for when you crave something sweet and chilled.
I love no-bake desserts because they let you enjoy homemade goodness without heating up your kitchen or waiting hours for your treat to set. Each recipe is easy to make and offers a delightful escape from the summer heat. Enjoy the ease, the flavor, and the cool satisfaction of a dessert made just for those sunny days.
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21. Turkish Fig Pudding
Turkish Fig Pudding, also known as İncir Uyutması, is a traditional dessert that beautifully showcases the richness and simplicity of Turkish cuisine. What’s the best part? This delightful pudding requires only two primary ingredients: dried figs and milk.
The natural sweetness of the figs blends seamlessly with the creamy milk, resulting in a dessert that is both wholesome and indulgent. Experience the authentic taste of Turkish Fig Pudding and bring a piece of Turkey into your kitchen with this recipe.
Find the recipe here: Cooking Gorgeous
22. Healthy Dark Chocolate Bark
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that doesn’t derail your healthy eating, you must turn to this Healthy Dark Chocolate Bark recipe from Whole New Mom!
It’s incredibly simple: Melt sugar-free dark chocolate chips with a touch of coconut oil, then mix in your favorite seeds and nuts—I usually go with walnuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds. After spreading it out and letting it set, you get a delicious crunchy bark that’s both satisfying and guilt-free.
More importantly, this recipe is vegan and keto-friendly, so it fits various dietary needs.
Find the full recipe here: Whole New Home
23. Chocolate-Covered Dates Stuffed with Almond Butter
Sweet Medjool dates, creamy almond butter, and rich dark chocolate come together in this simple recipe from Eating by Elaine. These chocolate-covered, almond butter-stuffed dates offer a healthier alternative to traditional candy bars, providing a naturally sweet and satisfying treat.
Why will you love this recipe?
- With minimal ingredients and steps, you can prepare these in no time.
- The dates provide natural sweetness, eliminating the need for added sugars.
- It is vegan, gluten-free, and free of refined sugars, making it a guilt-free pleasure!
- Perfect for satisfying those mid-afternoon cravings or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Find the full recipe here: Eating by Elaine
24. Passion Fruit Mousse
Treat yourself to a tropical delight with this Passion Fruit Mousse recipe from Casual Foodist. This no-bake dessert combines the tangy sweetness of passion fruit with a creamy, airy texture, making it a perfect treat for warm days. The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few ingredients, and results in a mousse that is incredibly satisfying.
Serve it chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream, to impress guests or enjoy a personal indulgence!
Find the full recipe here: Casual Foodist
25. Vegan No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie
For a lovely dessert that marries rich flavors with a health-conscious approach, consider this Vegan No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie from The Conscious Plant Kitchen!
The pie features a chocolate almond crust made from almond flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, vanilla extract, mapple syrup, and coconut oil. The filling combines natural peanut butter, chia seeds, maple syrup, coconut milk, coconut cream, and coconut oil, resulting in a creamy, mousse-like texture without the use of tofu or vegan cream cheese.
This pie is not only vegan but also offers a keto-friendly option by substituting monk fruit syrup for maple syrup. It’s a perfect treat for those seeking a healthier version.
Find the full recipe here: The Conscious Plant Kitchen
Summer Baking Recipes
As the days grow longer and the sun heats up the earth, summer invites us into the kitchen to create desserts that mirror the season’s vibrancy.
Picture the comforting aroma of a peach cobbler emerging from the oven, its golden crust encasing juicy, sun-kissed peaches. Or imagine the joy of biting into a slice of homemade strawberry shortcake, where the sweetness of ripe berries melds with the lightness of freshly baked biscuits and a dollop of whipped cream.
These aren’t just recipes; they’re experiences that capture the essence of summer. Embracing the season’s bounty allows us to craft healthy summer desserts that are as delightful to make as they are to share, turning simple moments into cherished memories!
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26. Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes
Savor the delightful fusion of sweet and tart with these Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes from Just So Tasty!
Each cupcake features a moist lemon base crafted with fresh lemon juice and zest. Crowning the cupcake is a creamy strawberry frosting made from real berries that offers an authentic fruity taste without any artificial additives.
The natural pink hue of the frosting adds an elegant touch, making these cupcakes as visually appealing as they are delicious. Perfect for summer gatherings or a personal treat, these cupcakes encapsulate the essence of a classic strawberry lemonade in every bite.
Find the recipe here: Just So Tasty
27. Peach Almond Cake
Imagine the aroma of toasted almonds and ripe peaches wafting through your kitchen on a warm summer afternoon. This Peach Almond Cake from Serving Dumplings brings that vision to life!
It’s the kind of summer dessert that doesn’t demand fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just some fresh peaches, a single bowl, and a bit of time. As you mix the batter, you will notice how the ground almonds add a subtle nuttiness, perfectly complementing the juicy sweetness of the peaches.
Whether paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake captures the essence of summer in every bite.
Find the full recipe here: Serving Dumplings
28. Honey Apricot Tarts
Biting into one of these Honey Apricot Tarts by Serving Dumplings is like seizing the essence of summer in a single mouthful. The crisp, golden puff pastry provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, honey-glazed apricots!
Fresh thyme and a hint of lemon elevate the taste, adding a subtle complexity that lingers pleasantly on the palate. What stands out is the ease of the preparation—minimal ingredients and effort yield a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet.
Find the full recipe here: Serving Dumplings
29. Cherry Cobbler
When the craving for a baked dessert strikes, especially during cherry season, nothing satisfies quite like a homemade cherry cobbler. With just a few pantry staples and a generous helping of fresh, juicy cherries, you can whip up a dessert that is both easy to make and so impressive!
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening with family or baking summer desserts for a crowd, this cobbler fits the bill perfectly. Cherries are at their peak during the summer months, making it the ideal time to bake this classic treat.
The process is straightforward: Melt some butter in your baking dish, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and milk to form a batter, and pour it over the melted butter. Then, spoon your sweetened cherries on top and bake until golden and bubbly.
Find the full recipe here: Jo Cooks
30. Keto Brownies
If you are on the hunt for a brownie recipe that combines rich, fudgy decadence with simplicity, these Keto Brownies are a must-try! They are crafted with straightforward ingredients like cocoa powder, almond flour, and your choice of coconut oil or butter, making them accessible for most home bakers!
The preparation is uncomplicated, and the result is a batch of ketogenic brownies that are not only delicious but also align with a low-carb lifestyle, boasting less than 1 gram of net carbs per serving.
What sets these brownies apart is their ability to deliver a rich, chocolatey experience without the need for boxed mixes or complicated steps. If you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply seeking a healthier alternative to traditional brownies, this recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Find the full recipe here: Chocolate Covered Katie
Wrapping Up
And there you have it—some of the tastiest ways to cool down and treat yourself this summer. It is that time of year when eating anything warm and hot feels like a challenge, so these cold, fruity, and delicious desserts become an instant win!
These healthy fruit desserts are not just about their incredible flavors, they are also little moments of joy. Perfect after a BBQ, during a lazy afternoon, or just because you need a break.
Trying out new recipes like dessert with ice cream or cookout desserts can be fun, even if things get a bit messy. That’s half the charm. And hey, if it ends in something delicious, totally worth it. So, go ahead and scoop, slice, or chill your way through the season.
Hope this gave you some fresh ideas to enjoy all that summer has to offer—one bite at a time. Stay cool, stay sweet, and don’t forget to save some for later… or not. We won’t judge.