When the temperature rises, the last thing you want is a heavy, overly rich treat. That’s why desserts that are easy to make, require little to no baking, and highlight the best of summer’s fresh produce are the perfect choice. Here are some summer desserts that are designed to keep you cool and delighted, offering just the right balance of sweetness and refreshment.
Contents
- 1 Watermelon Sorbet
- 2 Coconut Lime Popsicles
- 3 Berry Yogurt Parfait
- 4 Lemon Granita
- 5 Peach Melba
- 6 Mango Sticky Rice
- 7 Chilled Fruit Soup
- 8 No-Bake Cheesecake
- 9 Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- 10 Strawberry Shortcake
- 11 Iced Lemon Pound Cake
- 12 Key Lime Pie
- 13 Frozen Banana Bites
- 14 Raspberry Fool
- 15 Icebox Cake
- 16 Panna Cotta with Berries
- 17 Frozen Yogurt Bark
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Watermelon Sorbet
Watermelon sorbet is a refreshing and hydrating treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. To make it, blend cubed watermelon with a squeeze of lime juice and a touch of sugar, then freeze the mixture until it’s firm. You can churn it in an ice cream maker for a smoother texture or freeze it directly for a more rustic feel. Serve this sorbet in a chilled glass for an extra cooling effect. It’s a delightful way to enjoy one of summer’s most iconic fruits.
Coconut Lime Popsicles
Coconut lime popsicles combine the creamy richness of coconut milk with the zesty brightness of lime. To prepare, mix coconut milk with fresh lime juice, lime zest, and a bit of sugar, then pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid. These popsicles are incredibly easy to make and provide a dairy-free option that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The combination of tropical flavors is sure to transport you to a beachside paradise. Enjoy them as a quick cool-down treat after a day in the sun.
Berry Yogurt Parfait
A berry yogurt parfait is a light and nutritious dessert that layers fresh berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola. Start by spooning a layer of yogurt into a glass, followed by a handful of mixed berries and a sprinkle of granola. Repeat the layers until the glass is full, then chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also packed with antioxidants and probiotics. It’s a perfect option for a guilt-free indulgence.
Lemon Granita
Lemon granita is an icy, palate-cleansing dessert with a burst of citrus flavor. To make it, combine fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar, then freeze the mixture, scraping it with a fork every 30 minutes to create fine, icy crystals. The result is a slushy, refreshing treat that melts in your mouth. Serve it in small bowls or glasses as a light dessert after a meal. It’s a fantastic way to beat the heat with something tangy and cool.
Peach Melba
Peach Melba is a classic summer dessert featuring poached peaches, raspberry sauce, and vanilla ice cream. Start by poaching ripe peaches in a sugar syrup until tender, then serve them over a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The combination of warm peaches and cold ice cream is both luxurious and refreshing. This dessert is perfect for showcasing the peak flavors of summer fruits. It’s a timeless choice that’s sure to impress.
Mango Sticky Rice
Mango sticky rice is a popular Thai dessert that’s both sweet and slightly savory. Cook sticky rice until tender, then mix it with sweetened coconut milk. Serve the rice alongside fresh, ripe mango slices and drizzle with more coconut milk. This dessert is simple yet indulgent, with the mango’s natural sweetness pairing perfectly with the creamy rice. It’s a delightful treat that offers a taste of the tropics in every bite.
Chilled Fruit Soup
Chilled fruit soup is a versatile and refreshing dessert that can be made with a variety of summer fruits. Blend your choice of fruits—such as berries, melons, or peaches—with a bit of juice or water, then strain the mixture and chill in the refrigerator. Serve the soup cold, garnished with fresh mint or a dollop of yogurt. This dessert is light, hydrating, and full of natural sweetness. It’s a creative way to enjoy fruit on a hot day.
No-Bake Cheesecake
No-bake cheesecake is a creamy, rich dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven. To make it, combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract, then fold in whipped cream. Spread the mixture over a graham cracker crust and chill until set. Top with fresh fruit or a fruit compote before serving. This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings when you want something decadent without the heat.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple upside-down cake is a retro dessert that remains a favorite for its sweet, tangy flavors. For a summer twist, make it on the grill. Place pineapple rings in a cast-iron skillet with brown sugar and butter, then pour a simple cake batter over the top. Cover the skillet and cook on the grill until the cake is golden and the pineapple caramelized. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the tropical flavors with a hint of smokiness.
Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert that’s synonymous with summer. To make it, bake fluffy biscuits or sponge cake, then layer with sweetened strawberries and whipped cream. The contrast between the juicy berries, tender cake, and airy whipped cream is irresistible. This dessert is easy to assemble and perfect for showcasing ripe, in-season strawberries. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.
Iced Lemon Pound Cake
Iced lemon pound cake is a zesty, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer. Start by baking a classic pound cake infused with lemon zest and juice, then drizzle with a tangy lemon glaze once cooled. The result is a moist, citrusy cake that’s sweet and slightly tart. Serve it chilled for an extra cooling effect on a hot day. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of iced tea.
Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is a tangy, creamy dessert that’s ideal for summer. To make it, combine key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks, then pour into a graham cracker crust and bake until set. Once cooled, top with whipped cream or meringue and chill before serving. The tartness of the lime contrasts beautifully with the sweet, buttery crust. It’s a refreshing treat that’s perfect for warm weather.
Frozen Banana Bites
Frozen banana bites are a fun, bite-sized dessert that’s both healthy and delicious. Slice bananas into rounds, dip them in melted chocolate, and sprinkle with toppings like chopped nuts or coconut. Freeze the bites until firm, then serve straight from the freezer. These little treats are perfect for a quick snack or a light dessert. They’re a great way to satisfy a sweet tooth without overindulging.
Raspberry Fool
Raspberry fool is a simple yet elegant dessert made by folding fresh raspberry puree into whipped cream. To make it, puree raspberries with a bit of sugar, then gently fold into whipped cream, creating swirls of raspberry throughout. Chill the mixture before serving in individual glasses, topped with a few whole raspberries for garnish. This dessert is light, creamy, and bursting with summer berry flavor. It’s a perfect end to a hot day.
Icebox Cake
Icebox cake is a nostalgic dessert that’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for summer. Layer whipped cream with graham crackers or chocolate wafers, and then chill the cake in the refrigerator overnight. The crackers soften, creating a cake-like texture without any baking. Top with fresh fruit or chocolate shavings before serving. This no-bake dessert is cool, creamy, and a hit at any summer gathering.
Panna Cotta with Berries
Panna cotta is a smooth, creamy Italian dessert that’s wonderfully light and refreshing. To make it, heat cream, sugar, and vanilla, then mix in gelatin and pour into molds to set. Once firm, serve with a fresh berry compote or a drizzle of fruit sauce. The contrast between the creamy panna cotta and the tart berries is delightful. It’s an elegant dessert that’s perfect for a warm summer evening.
Frozen Yogurt Bark
Frozen yogurt bark is a customizable, healthy dessert that’s perfect for summer. Spread a thick layer of Greek yogurt onto a baking sheet, then sprinkle with toppings like fresh berries, nuts, and a drizzle of honey. Freeze until solid, then break into pieces and enjoy. This dessert is not only easy to make but also packed with protein and probiotics. It’s a guilt-free treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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