It’s the perfect season for enjoying light, refreshing, and fun summer dessert recipes. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, heading to a potluck, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these easy and delightful recipes are perfect for any summer occasion.
Let’s dive into what makes these desserts ideal for the summer season and how you can easily prepare them at home.
![summer dessert recipes](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.png)
What makes a dessert perfect for summer?
Summer desserts are best when they’re chilled or easy to prepare, and feature fresh, in-season ingredients. Think about using fruits like strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and cherries, which are all at their peak during the summer months. No-bake or frozen desserts are also fantastic choices because they keep your kitchen cool by avoiding the oven.
How can I healthify summer dessert recipes?
Incorporating nutritious ingredients into your dessert recipes is a great way to enjoy sweet treats without the guilt. Use fruits, yogurt, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup to create healthier versions of your favorite desserts.
Lighter options, such as fruit-based desserts or those made with yogurt, are perfect for summer as they’re refreshing and don’t weigh you down. Swapping out heavy cream and sugar for healthier alternatives can make a big difference in both flavor and nutrition.
How can I make a summer dessert quickly and easily?
Simplifying dessert preparation is key during the busy summer months. Use pre-cut fruits or ready-made crusts to save time and effort.
Make-ahead recipes are a lifesaver, especially those that can be prepared in jars for easy storage and serving. For example, layering ingredients in jars not only looks cute, but also makes it convenient to grab a dessert on the go or serve at a party without fuss. This allows you to enjoy delicious desserts without spending hours in the kitchen – always a win!
Now, let’s explore some fun and easy summer dessert recipes!
1. 3-Ingredient Blueberry Cobbler
This 3-Ingredient Blueberry Cobbler is as easy as it gets! Just three simple ingredients and you have a delicious dessert bursting with the juicy sweetness of fresh blueberries. It’s perfect for those days when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. You can customize by adding different fruits, and if you’re interested in a gluten free version, try our gluten free blueberry cobbler.
![](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpg)
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen blueberries
- 1 box of gluten free yellow cake mix, can sub regular
- 1 cup grass-fed butter, can sub dairy free
- vanilla ice cream, optional but encouraged
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350F.
- Melt butter in a medium bowl and then mix in the cake mix until you have a thick batter.
- Add frozen blueberries to a baking dish, then drop on the cake batter and spread evenly.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes and enjoy with vanilla ice cream
2. High Protein Banana Pudding
Need a summer dessert that’s both tasty and healthy? This High Protein Banana Pudding is your answer. Packed with protein and the natural sweetness of bananas, it’s creamy, delicious, and a great way to keep your nutrition on track while enjoying a treat.
![](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Banana Pudding
- 1 cup cottage cheese, I used low-fat Good Culture
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, I used plain Greek God’s
- 2 tbsp honey, may sub agave, maple syrup, monk fruit sweetener, coconut sugar, or sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 scoops, about 1/2 cup unflavored protein powder, I used Ritual
Optional Additions
- Vanilla wafers, for layering
- Banana slices, for layering
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Mint for a garnish
Directions
- In a blender or food processor, add in the cottage cheese, greek yogurt, sliced bananas, honey, protein powder and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy. Try not to over-blend mixture, which is why adding in sliced vs whole bananas is recommended.
- Assemble jars with by layering with vanilla wafers, banana pudding, sliced bananas and then finishing off with whipped cream if desired.
- Serve immediately, or chill for a few hours before enjoying.
3. Strawberry Bark
Strawberry Bark is a fun and easy dessert that combines fresh strawberries with yogurt or chocolate. It’s perfect for a light summer treat that’s both refreshing and enjoyable to make. Plus, it’s a great activity to do with kids!
![strawberry bark for a light summer dessert](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671683_424_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, sliced thin
- 1/2 cup runny all natural almond butter, or any other nut or seed butter
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 tsp matcha powder
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Directions
- Start by thinly slicing the strawberries and then arranging them on a baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper.
- Next, drizzle almond butter over the strawberries and spread evenly. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up.
- When ready, melt white chocolate with coconut oil in the microwave in 30 second increments, stirring well in between each round. Then mix in the matcha powder.
- Spread it evenly over the almond butter and quickly top with pistachios and almonds. Freeze for a minimum or 8 hours or over night.
- Break bark apart with your hands or cut into pieces with a knife and enjoy!
4. Healthy Butterfingers
Craving something sweet but want to keep it healthy? These Healthy Butterfingers are a perfect choice. They offer a healthier twist on the classic candy, using natural sweeteners and nutritious ingredients. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy the flavors you love.
![healthy butterfingers](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671683_920_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
- 3.5 cups corn flakes
- 1/3 cup maple syrup, can sub honey or agave
- 1 cup creamy, all natural salted peanut butter
- 1 cup dairy free or regular chocolate chips, melted
Directions
- Start by crushing the cornflakes until there are no big chunks left. You can do this in a ziplock bag or in a large bowl with a smaller bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup and peanut butter until fully combined.
- Add the mixture into the corn flakes and mix until well incorporated.
- Form the pieces into candy bar shapes, or for Easter, I did easter eggs. But you can do circles or rectangles for a more classic look.
- Place these on a baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper and freeze for 10 minutes.
- In the meantime, melt the chocolate on the stovetop or in the microwave. If melting in the microwave, do it with a 1/2 tbsp of coconut oil and heat in 30 second increments, stirring well in between each round.
- Then dip and coat each piece in the chocolate and place back on the parchment paper and freeze for 10 more minutes before enjoying.
5. Lemon Truffles
These Lemon Truffles are a burst of zesty, refreshing flavor that’s perfect for summer. They’re creamy and indulgent yet still a healthier option. Ideal for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up that feels luxurious.
![lemon truffles](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671683_126_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup creamy all natural almond or cashew butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp lemon extract
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 + 1/3 cup almond flour
Directions
- In a bowl, combine almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Then, add in almond flour and mix until a dough is formed.
- Use a cookie scoop, roll mixture into balls and place on a baking sheet that is lined with parchment paper. Freeze while you melt the white chocolate.
- Add white chocolate chips to a microwave safe dish with the coconut oil and melt in 30 second increments, stirring well in between each round.
- Dip each truffle in white chocolate and place back on the baking sheet. Freeze for 3 minutes and then drizzle each one with more white chocolate before finishing it off with lemon zest.
- Place back in the freezer for 10-15 minutes or until totally firm and enjoy!
6. Viral Shaved Fruit
Have you seen the viral shaved fruit trend? It’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, hydrating fruit in a fun and refreshing way. Perfect for hot summer days, this treat is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
![viral shaved fruit for a frozen summer dessert](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671684_250_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
- 1 whole frozen peach
- 1 frozen kiwi
- 1 frozen pineapple spear
- 5 frozen strawberries
- 1 tbsp manuka honey
Directions
- Freeze your fruit until it’s completely solid, recommended overnight.
- Use a microplane and grate the frozen fruit over a bowl.
- Drizzle honey on top if desired and enjoy!
7. Cherry Pie
Nothing says summer like a classic Cherry Pie made with fresh cherries. This recipe simplifies the process, making it easy to prepare while still delivering that rich, fruity flavor you love. Perfect for any summer gathering!
![cherry pie with fresh cherries](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671684_823_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, spoon and leveled
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons
- 1/2 cup ice cold water
- 1 egg, for the egg wash
- 2 tbsp course sugar, optional
Pie Filling
- 4 cups cherries, pitted
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup tapioca flour
Directions (12 Servings)
- Start by making the pie crust. In a medium bowl add in the all purpose flour and salt. Mix until well incorporated.
- Next, add in the chilled and cubed unsalted butter. Use a pastry tool to combine the flour into the butter. If you don’t have a tool, using two forks works just as great. Combine until you have a crumbly mixture with pea sized dough balls, see photo above. Do not over work the butter into the flour.
- Next, add in 1 tbsp of ice cold water and use a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together. Add 1 tbsp at a time until you’ve used the entire 1/2 cup. Dough will be sticky.
- Bring the dough out onto a floured working surface and knead slightly. Don’t over work the dough, just knead enough until you can roll it into a ball. Then, cut into two equal parts.
- Flatten each piece into a 1 inch disc and then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour.
Cherry Filling
- In the meantime, create the cherry filling. Remove the pit using a pit tool and add the pitted cherries to a large mixing bowl.
- Add in the almond and vanilla extracts, salt, coconut sugar and lemon juice mix well.
- Then mix in the tapioca flour until each piece is well coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for a minimum 1 hour.
- When ready, preheat the oven to 400F and remove only one piece of the dough.
- Place it on a floured surface and using a rolling pin, roll it out until it’s wide enough to cover the pie pan. Use your rolling pin to roll the dough up and then place it over the baking dish.
- Using a slotted spoon, scoop the cherries without getting any of the juices and add them to the pie crust.
- Add the juices into a saucepan and heat over low heat for 3-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Add the sauce on top of the cherries and spread evenly.
- Roll out the second piece of pie crust and using a pizza cutter, or knife, create the pie topping.
- Place the topping over the cherry pie, overlapping each one and then brush with an egg wash and sprinkle with course sugar.
- Bake at 400F for 20 minutes and then reduce to 375F and bake for another 35-40 minutes.
- Let cool completely before slicing into, about 2-3 hours and enjoy!
8. Chocolate Covered Pineapple
Chocolate Covered Pineapple is the tropical treat you didn’t know you needed. The combination of sweet pineapple and rich chocolate is simply divine, and it’s super quick and easy to prepare. A must-try for any summer dessert lover!
![refreshing chocolate covered pineapple](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671684_170_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients (2 Cups)
- 1 pineapple, cut into bite sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain, greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 2 cups white chocolate chips, melted
Directions
- Cut a fresh pineapple into bite sized pieces.
- Next, using a toothpick or a fork, dip each pineapple into yogurt until each piece is well coated and place it on a piece of parchment paper.
- Then, sprinkle each piece with shredded coconut and freeze.
- Once frozen, dip the pineapple in melted white chocolate and place it back on the parchment paper and back into the freezer until firm once more and enjoy.
9. Dairy-Free Klondike Bars
These Dairy-Free Klondike Bars are a fantastic alternative to the classic treat. With a creamy texture and rich chocolate coating, they’re perfect for those avoiding dairy but still craving something indulgent and delicious.
![creamy dairy free klondike bars](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671684_108_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
- (1) 13.5oz can of coconut cream, solid parts only
- 1/2 cup almond butter, cashew butter or peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 12 tbsp caramel
- 2 cups dark chocolate, melted
Directions
- In a blender, add in the solid parts only of the canned coconut cream, almond butter and coconut sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Then, place the empty silicon molds on a baking sheet, then add the mixture into the silicon molds, about 3/4’s to the top, leaving a little bit of room.
- Drop about 1 tbsp of caramel in the center of each filled cavity and place them in the freezer until completely firm, about 4-6 hours.
- Once ready, dip the ice cream in melted chocolate and place it onto a baking sheet that’s lined with parchment paper.
- Place back in the freezer for 30 more minutes and enjoy! Sprinkle with flakey sea salt if desired.
10. Vegan Fudge Popsicles
Cool down with these Vegan Fudge Popsicles. Rich in chocolaty flavor and completely vegan, they’re simple to make and perfect for hot summer days. A creamy and satisfying summer dessert that everyone can enjoy!
![vegan fudge popsicles for a frozen summer dessert](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671685_970_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Fudge Pops
- (1) 13.5oz can of coconut cream
- 1/2 cup almond butter see notes above, may sub any other nut or seed butter
- 1/4 cup cacao powder
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
Magic Shell
- 1/2 cup chocolate, melted
- 1/4 cup hazelnuts, chopped
Directions (6 Fudge Bars)
- To start, add in the coconut cream (solid parts only), almond butter, coconut sugar, and cacao powder t0 a blender.
- Next, blend for a minute or so or until the ingredients are really well combined.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, add in the sticks, cover and place in the freezer for a minimum of 4 hours or until firm.
- When ready, melt chocolate in the microwave and then mix in chopped hazelnuts.
- Remove the fudge pops from the molds and dip them in the chocolate mixture, place them on a piece of parchment paper and put them back in the freezer until harden. Enjoy!!
11. Banana Snickers
These Banana Snickers are a fun, healthy twist on the traditional candy bar. Using bananas for natural sweetness and a crunchy nut layer, they’re a nutritious way to enjoy a classic flavor combination in a much healthier format.
![healthy version of a banana snicker candy bar](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671685_462_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
- 1 cup chocolate, melted
- 15 thin slices of banana
- 15 tsp creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup roasted peanuts
Directions
- In a silicon mold, add in about 1 tsp of melted chocolate.
- Then, add in thin slices of banana followed by a dollop of peanut butter.
- Sprinkle some peanuts on top of that and finish it off with more melted chocolate.
- Place in the freezer until firm.
- Remove from the liners and enjoy.
12. Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Bars
If you love Reese’s cups, you’ll adore these Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Bars. They taste like a healthy version of your favorite treat, and the best part? They’re no-bake and made with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a quick and satisfying summer dessert.
![peanut butter cookie dough bars](https://yakimotudongura.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1717671685_665_12-Refreshing-Summer-Dessert-Recipes-for-Hot-Days.jpeg)
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Layer
- 1.5 cups almond flour
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup dairy free chocolate chips
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1 cup dairy free chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy, all natural peanut butter
- 1 tbsp coconut or extra virgin olive oil
Directions (16 Bars)
- In a medium bowl, mix together to almond flour and salt, set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Mix well. Then add wet ingredients into dry and mix well. Mixture should take form when you pinch between your fingers. If too crumbly, keep mixing or add in more peanut butter.
- Fold in the chocolate chips last and then press cookie dough into an 8×8 baking dish that is lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, add in the chocolate chips, peanut butter and oil. Microwave in 30 second increments, stirring well in between each round.
- Pour chocolate mixture over the cookie dough and add on dollops of peanut butter before swirling with a toothpick. This is optional but encouraged! Place in the freezer for 1 hour to set.
- Cut into bars and enjoy. Top with flakey sea salt if desired.
Each of these summer dessert recipes offers a unique and delightful way to enjoy summer’s best flavors. Whether you’re looking for something nutritious, refreshing, or indulgent, there’s a recipe here to suit every taste. Enjoy your summer sweets!
The post 12 Refreshing Summer Dessert Recipes for Hot Days appeared first on Lovely Delites.