Summer brings warm days and a craving for cool, refreshing treats. When the temperature rises, you want desserts that are light, fruity, and easy to make.

These summer dessert recipes offer a mix of no-bake options and simple baked goods that won’t heat up your kitchen.

You’ll find over 26 delicious ideas for summer sweets in this collection. The recipes feature seasonal fruits like berries, peaches, and citrus.

Many can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for backyard barbecues and picnics. From creamy ice creams to tangy fruit pies, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.

1. Lemon Blueberry Tart

This refreshing summer dessert combines tangy lemon and sweet blueberries. You’ll love the contrast of flavors and textures in every bite.

Start with a buttery shortbread crust. Press it into a tart pan and bake until golden brown.

For the filling, mix lemon juice, zest, sugar, and eggs. Pour this into the cooled crust. Swirl in a homemade blueberry sauce for a pretty effect.

Bake the tart until the filling is set. Let it cool completely before serving.

Top with fresh blueberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. This tart is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light dessert after dinner.

2. Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a tasty summer dessert that mixes sweet and salty flavors. It has three layers – a pretzel crust, cream cheese filling, and strawberry Jello topping.

To make it, you’ll crush pretzels and mix them with butter and sugar for the base. Press this into a baking dish and bake it.

Next, you’ll spread a cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Top it off with strawberry Jello and fresh strawberries.

This cool, refreshing dessert is perfect for hot days. You can make it ahead of time and keep it chilled until ready to serve.

3. Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is a must-have summer dessert. Its tangy flavor and creamy texture make it perfect for hot days.

The pie features a graham cracker crust filled with a smooth, tart lime filling. It’s often topped with whipped cream for added sweetness.

You can make mini versions in tart shells for bite-sized treats. For a twist, try a coconut key lime trifle with layers of cake and lime curd.

Key lime pie is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a refreshing end to any summer meal or barbecue.

4. Peach Cobbler

Peach cobbler is a beloved summer dessert that showcases ripe, juicy peaches. You can easily make this classic treat at home.

Start by slicing fresh peaches and mixing them with sugar and spices. Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Top it with a simple batter made from flour, sugar, milk, and butter.

Bake your cobbler until the top turns golden brown and the peaches bubble. The result is a warm, comforting dessert with a crisp topping and sweet fruit filling.

Serve your peach cobbler warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a cozy treat for yourself.

5. Mango Sorbet

Mango sorbet is a refreshing summer treat you can easily make at home. It requires just a few simple ingredients and no special equipment.

Start with ripe mangoes for the best flavor. Blend the mango flesh with a touch of lime juice and a sweetener like maple syrup.

Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container. Freeze for several hours, stirring occasionally to break up ice crystals.

The result is a smooth, intensely fruity sorbet. It’s dairy-free and packed with mango flavor.

Serve it in small scoops as a light dessert after a summer meal.

You can customize your mango sorbet by adding other fruits or spices. Try mixing in some passion fruit or a pinch of chili powder for a twist.

6. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Pineapple upside-down cake is a classic summer dessert. You’ll love its sweet, caramelized pineapple topping and moist cake base.

To make it, start by melting butter and brown sugar in a cake pan. Arrange pineapple slices on top. Pour cake batter over the fruit and bake until golden.

After baking, let the cake cool briefly. Then flip it onto a plate so the pineapple is on top. The fruit will be beautifully caramelized.

This cake is best served warm. You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. It’s sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering.

7. Raspberry Cheesecake Squares

Raspberry cheesecake squares are a tasty summer treat. You’ll love the mix of tangy raspberries and creamy cheesecake on a graham cracker crust.

These squares are easy to make and perfect for hot days. The raspberry topping adds a bright, fruity flavor that balances the rich cheesecake.

You can make these ahead of time and keep them chilled. They’re great for parties or picnics. For extra flavor, try adding some lemon zest to the filling.

To serve, cut into small squares. Top with fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream if you like. These sweet treats will be a hit at your next summer gathering.

8. No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake

This cool and creamy dessert is perfect for hot summer days. You won’t need to turn on your oven to make this tasty treat.

The cake features layers of graham crackers, pudding, and whipped topping. It’s topped with a rich chocolate glaze for extra indulgence.

To make it, you’ll mix vanilla pudding with milk until it thickens. Then fold in whipped topping. Layer this mixture with graham crackers in a baking dish.

For the topping, combine butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, hot water, and vanilla. Pour this over the layers and chill the cake.

Let it sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the crackers to soften.

9. Blackberry Fool

Blackberry Fool is a quick and easy summer dessert you’ll love. It combines sweet blackberries with creamy yogurt or whipped cream.

To make it, mash fresh blackberries and mix them with sugar. Then fold this mixture into whipped cream or yogurt.

Chill the dessert before serving. You can layer it in glasses for a pretty presentation.

Blackberry Fool has a long history, dating back centuries in British and Irish cuisine. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something cool and refreshing.

Try adding some crumbled shortbread cookies on top for extra texture. This simple treat is sure to become a favorite in your summer dessert rotation.

10. Honey Lavender Ice Cream

Honey lavender ice cream is a perfect summer treat. This unique flavor combines the sweetness of honey with the floral notes of lavender.

To make it, steep dried lavender flowers in cream and milk. Then mix in honey as a natural sweetener. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker until thick and creamy.

The result is a rich, smooth ice cream with a delicate lavender taste. The honey adds depth and balances the floral flavor nicely.

Serve this ice cream on its own or pair it with fresh berries. You can also use it to top warm desserts like pie or cobbler for an extra special touch.

11. Coconut Rice Pudding

Coconut rice pudding is a tasty summer dessert that blends creamy textures with tropical flavors. You can make it using cooked rice, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk.

Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the taste. For extra richness, stir in an egg while cooking. Raisins are optional but add a nice touch.

Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring often until it thickens. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. The result is a smooth, sweet pudding with a hint of coconut.

Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat on hot days. You can top it with cinnamon or toasted coconut flakes for added flavor and crunch.

12. Mojito Sherbet

Mojito sherbet brings the flavors of the classic cocktail to a cool, refreshing dessert. This treat combines lime, mint, and rum in a creamy frozen form.

To make it, you’ll need lime juice, lime zest, sugar, water, and a splash of rum. Blend these ingredients with milk or cream for a smooth texture.

Freeze the mixture in an ice cream maker until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. For best results, let it firm up in the freezer for a few hours before serving.

Garnish your mojito sherbet with fresh mint leaves and lime wedges. It’s perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses at dinner parties.

13. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Strawberry rhubarb crisp is a tasty summer dessert. It mixes sweet strawberries with tart rhubarb for a perfect flavor combo.

The fruit filling goes in a baking dish. On top, you’ll add a crispy oat topping. It has oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter.

As it bakes, the fruit gets soft and jammy. The topping turns golden and crunchy. The mix of textures makes each bite exciting.

This dessert is easy to make. You can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s great for summer parties or just a cozy night at home.

14. Lime Coconut Bars

Lime coconut bars are a tasty summer treat. They combine tangy lime with sweet coconut for a tropical flavor.

The base is a buttery shortbread crust. You press it into a pan and bake until golden.

For the filling, mix lime juice, eggs, and sweetened condensed milk. Pour this over the crust and top with shredded coconut.

Bake until set, then chill before cutting into squares. These bars are creamy, zesty, and perfect for hot days.

Serve them at picnics or backyard parties. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

15. Frozen Lemonade Pie

Frozen Lemonade Pie is a cool and tangy summer dessert you can make easily at home. You’ll need frozen lemonade concentrate, sweetened condensed milk, and whipped topping.

Mix the lemonade concentrate with condensed milk in a bowl. Gently fold in the whipped topping to keep it light and airy.

Pour the mixture into a graham cracker crust. You can buy a pre-made crust or make your own with crushed graham crackers and melted butter.

Freeze the pie for several hours until firm. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.

This refreshing treat combines the sweet and tart flavors of lemonade in a creamy, frozen form. It’s perfect for hot summer days.

16. Watermelon Granita

Watermelon granita is a refreshing summer treat that’s easy to make. You’ll need seedless watermelon, sugar, water, and lemon juice.

Start by blending 1 kg of watermelon until smooth. Mix in sugar and lemon juice to taste. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze.

Every 30 minutes, scrape the mixture with a fork to create icy crystals. Repeat this process for about 3 hours until you have a slushy texture.

For extra flavor, try adding mint leaves or a splash of lime juice. You can also experiment with cucumber or berries for unique twists.

Serve your watermelon granita in chilled glasses as a light dessert or palate cleanser.

17. Banana Cream Pudding

Banana cream pudding is a perfect summer treat. It’s cool, creamy, and full of banana flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

Start with ripe bananas for the best taste. Mash them up and mix with vanilla pudding. Fold in some whipped cream for extra richness.

Layer the pudding with vanilla wafers in a glass dish. Top it off with more whipped cream and banana slices. Chill it in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

This dessert is great for picnics or backyard parties. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this classic pudding. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

18. Cherry Clafoutis

Cherry clafoutis is a tasty French dessert perfect for summer. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and spread fresh cherries in a single layer.

Mix eggs, sugar, milk, flour, and vanilla in a blender until smooth. Pour this batter over the cherries.

Bake for about 35-40 minutes until the clafoutis is puffed and golden. The center should be set but slightly jiggly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can dust it with powdered sugar for a pretty finish.

This dessert is best enjoyed warm. The soft, custardy texture pairs beautifully with the juicy cherries.

19. Apricot Galette

Apricot galette is a simple and tasty summer dessert. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by rolling out pie dough into a circle on a floured surface. Spread almond paste in the center, leaving a border around the edges.

Arrange sliced apricots on top of the almond paste. Fold the edges of the dough up and over the fruit to create a rustic look.

Bake the galette until golden brown. For an extra touch, brush melted apricot jam over the fruit after baking to give it a glossy finish.

Serve your apricot galette warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. It’s a perfect way to enjoy ripe summer apricots.

20. Berry Trifle

Berry trifle is a perfect summer dessert. You can make it with layers of cake, pudding, and fresh berries.

Start with cubes of pound cake or angel food cake. Add a layer of vanilla pudding or cream cheese mixture. Top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.

Repeat the layers until your trifle dish is full. Finish with whipped cream and more berries on top.

This dessert looks impressive but is easy to make. You can prepare it ahead of time and chill until serving. It’s great for summer gatherings or holidays like the 4th of July.

21. Tropical Fruit Pavlova

Pavlova is a perfect summer dessert. You can make this sweet treat easily at home.

Start by whipping egg whites and sugar into a glossy meringue.

Spread the meringue on a baking sheet in a round shape. Bake it at 300°F for about 90 minutes until firm. Let it cool completely in the oven.

Top the cooled pavlova with whipped cream and tropical fruits. Try mango, passion fruit, and blueberries for bright flavors and colors. Add some lime zest for extra zing.

This dessert looks fancy but isn’t hard to make. The crisp meringue and soft cream pair well with juicy fruits. It’s sure to wow your guests at summer parties.

22. Peanut Butter Banana Popsicles

Peanut butter banana popsicles are a tasty summer treat. You only need four simple ingredients to make them: bananas, peanut butter, non-dairy milk, and maple syrup.

These popsicles are easy to prepare and budget-friendly. They’re also a healthier option for hot days. The recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free.

To make them, blend the ingredients until smooth. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze.

For extra flavor, try dipping the frozen popsicles in melted peanut butter.

You can customize these popsicles by adding frozen fruits like strawberries or mangoes. This creates different flavors while keeping the treat nutritious and refreshing.

23. Cucumber Lime Popsicles

Cucumber lime popsicles are a refreshing summer treat. They’re easy to make and require just a few ingredients.

You’ll need cucumbers, lime juice, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Some recipes also include Greek yogurt or mint leaves for extra flavor.

To make these popsicles, blend all the ingredients until smooth. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for at least 6 hours.

These popsicles are hydrating and low in calories. Cucumbers are 96% water and packed with antioxidants. The lime adds a tangy kick and vitamin C.

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar. For a healthier option, try using honey or stevia instead.

24. Passion Fruit Mousse

Passion fruit mousse is a popular Brazilian dessert that’s perfect for summer. You’ll love its creamy texture and tangy-sweet flavor.

This dessert is easy to make with just a few ingredients. You’ll need passion fruit pulp, condensed milk, and heavy cream.

To prepare it, mix the passion fruit pulp with condensed milk. Then fold in whipped cream. Chill the mousse for a few hours before serving.

You can garnish your mousse with fresh passion fruit seeds. This adds a nice crunch and extra flavor.

Passion fruit mousse is a great way to end a summer meal. It’s light, refreshing, and sure to impress your guests.

25. Grilled Pineapple with Rum Sauce

Grilled pineapple with rum sauce is a tasty summer treat. You’ll love the mix of sweet fruit and rich rum flavors.

Start by cutting a pineapple into rings. Brush them with oil or melted butter.

Grill the rings for 2-3 minutes on each side until you see nice grill marks.

While grilling, make a simple rum sauce. Mix rum with sugar and spices in a small pot. Heat it up to create a syrupy sauce.

Pour the warm rum sauce over your grilled pineapple. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for extra yumminess.

This dessert is perfect for backyard BBQs or summer parties. It’s easy to make and sure to wow your guests.

26. Chilled Mango Soup

Chilled mango soup is a sweet and refreshing summer dessert. You can make it easily with ripe mangoes, coconut milk, and a few other ingredients.

Blend mangoes with coconut water or milk until smooth. Add a touch of lime juice for extra tang. Chill the mixture in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.

For more flavor, try adding vanilla ice cream or yogurt to the blend. A sprinkle of chili flakes on top can give a nice contrast to the sweetness.

Serve this cool soup in small bowls or glasses. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something light and fruity.

Ingredients Highlight

Summer desserts shine with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The right mix of fruits and spices can take your treats to the next level.

Seasonal Fruits

Fresh berries are a must for summer desserts. Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add bright flavors and colors. Peaches and nectarines bring juicy sweetness to pies and cobblers.

Watermelon makes refreshing sorbets and popsicles. Cherries are perfect for clafoutis and tarts. Don’t forget about tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples for a taste of the islands.

Use ripe fruits at their peak for the best flavor. Mix different fruits to create interesting combinations in your desserts.

Essential Spices

Cinnamon adds warmth to fruit pies and crumbles. Vanilla enhances the sweetness in many desserts. Use real vanilla beans or extract for the best flavor.

Nutmeg pairs well with peaches and berries. A pinch of cardamom brings an exotic touch to fruit-based treats. Ginger adds a spicy kick to tropical desserts.

For citrus desserts, lemon and lime zest brighten the flavors. Fresh mint leaves are great in fruit salads and ice creams. Use spices sparingly to enhance, not overpower, the fruit flavors.

Tips For Perfecting Summer Desserts

Making great summer desserts takes skill and attention to detail. These tips will help you create treats that look and taste amazing.

Balancing Flavors

Use fresh, seasonal fruits for the best flavor. Mix sweet and tart tastes, like strawberries with lemon.

Don’t overdo the sugar – let natural fruit sweetness shine. Add herbs like mint or basil for a fresh twist.

Try unexpected flavor combos like peach and lavender. Use vanilla, cinnamon, or nutmeg to boost fruit flavors. Balance rich ingredients like cream with bright citrus. Taste as you go and adjust sweetness and acidity.

Presentation Techniques

Serve cold desserts in chilled bowls or glasses.

Use cookie cutters to make fun fruit shapes.

Layer ingredients in clear containers for a pretty look.

Add colorful garnishes like mint leaves or berries.

Try fun molds for ice pops or gelatin.

Make mini versions of pies or tarts.

Use edible flowers as decoration.

Drizzle sauces in artistic patterns.

Dust desserts with powdered sugar right before serving.

Stack fruits or cookies to add height.

Use contrasting colors to make desserts pop.

Serve on light-colored plates to show off vibrant fruits.