21 Irresistible Summer Desserts Perfect for a Hot Day
Simple refreshing summer desserts to make on a hot summer day!
When the temperatures rise, there’s nothing better than cooling down with a refreshing, delicious summer dessert. From no-bake treats to fruity delights, we’ve rounded up 21 easy summer desserts that are perfect for backyard BBQs, pool parties, or just indulging on a hot day. Whether you’re craving light and fruity options or rich, creamy favorites like icebox cake, this list has something for every sweet tooth.
In this post, you’ll discover:
- Quick no-bake desserts for hassle-free prep
- Fresh fruit-based treats bursting with seasonal flavors
- Crowd-pleasing frozen desserts to keep you cool
- Easy recipes that even beginners can master
1. Lemon Icebox Cake
If you’re looking for the perfect no-fuss summer dessert, you’ve got to try lemon icebox cake. It’s cool, creamy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor, basically sunshine on a plate. You don’t even need to turn on the oven, which is a major win on hot days. Just layer graham crackers with a tangy lemon filling, chill it in the fridge, and let the magic happen. It’s light, refreshing, and guaranteed to be a hit at any barbecue, picnic, or lazy afternoon at home.
2. Fresh Strawberry Pie
If you want a show‑stopping summer dessert that’s as easy as it is gorgeous, you should make this fresh strawberry pie. Just press together a sweet‑and‑salty graham cracker‑pretzel‑pecan crust, boil up a luscious cornstarch‑thickened strawberry glaze, stir in two pounds of juicy berries, then chill it until set. The result is a no‑bake pie that’s bursting with pure strawberry flavor, crunchy crust, and a beautiful, glistening finish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase peak-season strawberries at their sweetest.
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3. Homemade Ice Cream Cake
When you’re craving a a cool treat on a hot summer day, an ice cream cake is the ultimate way to beat the heat, and honestly making an ice cream cake is easier than you think.
Inspired by the classic Dairy Queen favorite, this no-bake dessert layers rich chocolate and vanilla ice cream, a crunchy Oreo fudge center, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s a simple, freezer-friendly dessert that’s guaranteed to be the highlight of summer gatherings as well.
4. Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Lemon crinkle cookies are a bright, zesty treat that’s perfect for summer baking. With their soft, chewy centers and crackly powdered sugar coating, these cookies pack a refreshing citrus punch in every bite. The light, tangy flavor of fresh lemon makes them an ideal dessert for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or just a sunny afternoon snack.
They’re easy to make, travel well, and offer a fun twist on traditional cookies—sweet, tart, and totally irresistible. If you’re looking for a simple summer treat that feels light but still satisfies your sweet tooth, lemon crinkle cookies are the way to go!
5. S’mores Cookie Bars
Indulge in the ultimate summer treat with s’mores cookie bars, a delightful twist on the campfire classic. These bars capture the iconic crunch of graham crackers, melty chocolate goodness, and stretchy marshmallow charm, all in a convenient, handheld treat.
Whether you’re looking for something to make for a backyard barbecue party, family picnics, or cozy evenings on the porch, these dessert bars deliver the beloved flavors of traditional s’mores without the need for a fire.
Easy to make in just around 40 minutes, they’re an ideal summer baking project that’s sure to delight kids and adults alike.
6. Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
These strawberry shortcake ice cream bars from Half Baked Harvest are the perfect summery dessert to keep tucked in your freezer on a sweltering day.
Made with just seven wholesome ingredients, including creamy coconut milk (or heavy cream), sweet strawberry jam, and crunchy brown rice crispies. These bars are extra creamy, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, and irresistibly fun to make.
The silky vanilla–strawberry base is dipped in a white chocolate coconut oil shell, then coated with a mix of freeze‑dried strawberry crumbs and crispy cereal for vibrant color and satisfying crunch.
7. Strawberry Mango Popsicles
These strawberry‑mango popsicles are the ultimate summer refresher—bursting with vibrant fruity flavor and creamy goodness, yet so simple to make. With just fresh strawberries, juicy mango chunks (or frozen, if that’s what you have), a splash of cream or coconut milk, and a drizzle of sweetener, they come together in about 20 minutes before freezing into colorful, swirled delights.
8. Strawberry Kiwi White Chocolate Yogurt Bark
Add a burst of summer flavor to your snack lineup with Strawberry Kiwi White Chocolate Greek Yogurt Bark. This vibrant, no-bake treat layers creamy, full‑fat Greek yogurt swirled with melted white chocolate, then tops it with fresh strawberries, juicy kiwi slices, a sprinkle of granola, and a touch of coconut for a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and crunch.
With only a handful of ingredients and simple prep, this frozen yogurt bark delivers big on taste and texture, and can be stored in the freezer for easy grab‑and‑go snackability.
9. Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles
Beat the heat this summer with these watermelon popsicles from Princess Pinky Girl—simple, hydrating, and naturally sweet. Just blend fresh seedless watermelon with a splash of lime (plus a touch of agave or sugar if needed), pour into molds, and freeze until solid. With only four basic ingredients, these pops are quick to prep, kid-approved, and endlessly customizable: think mint, berries, or even a hint of coconut milk.
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10. Orange Creamsicle Cake
Looking for a standout summer dessert that combines nostalgia with elegance? This Luscious Refreshing Orange Creamsicle Cake is a must-try. This cake features layers of moist orange cake infused with fresh orange juice and zest, complemented by a creamy frosting made from whipped heavy cream, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla and orange zest. The result is a delightful balance of citrusy brightness and creamy sweetness, reminiscent of the classic orange creamsicle treat. Perfect for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any occasion where you want to impress with a sweet, citrusy treat, this cake is sure to be a hit.
11. Lemon White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ready to brighten up your summer baking? These Lemon White Chocolate Chip Cookies deliver a perfect burst of citrusy freshness paired with sweet white chocolate chips. With a soft, chewy texture and a zesty lemon glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness, they’re ideal for cooling down on warm days or sharing at summer picnics and parties. Easy to whip up and irresistibly flavorful, these cookies are a delicious way to add a sunny twist to your dessert lineup.
12. Lime Popsicles
If you’re seeking a refreshing and naturally sweet summer treat, look no further than these Mint Lime Popsicles. Made with fresh-squeezed lime juice, organic mint leaves, and a touch of honey, these popsicles offer a delightful balance of tart and herbal flavors. They’re not only hydrating but also simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Perfect for cooling down on warm days, these popsicles are a wholesome alternative to store-bought frozen treats.
13. Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake
Looking to elevate your summer dessert repertoire? The Lemon Blueberry Sheet Cake from Paula Recipes is a delightful choice that combines bright citrus flavors with juicy blueberries. This moist, tender cake is infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, creating a zesty base that’s complemented by pockets of blueberries throughout.
Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, this cake offers a refreshing balance of sweet and tart notes, making it an ideal centerpiece for summer gatherings, picnics, or casual get-togethers. Its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation are sure to impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings.
14. Dulce de Leche Coffee Milkshake
Craving a sweet twist on your afternoon coffee? The Dulce de Leche Coffee Milkshake is a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of freshly brewed coffee, creamy vanilla ice cream, and the sweet, caramel-like notes of dulce de leche. This indulgent milkshake is topped with whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury. Perfect for cooling down on a warm day or as a special dessert, it’s a delightful way to enjoy your caffeine fix in a refreshing new form.
15. Creamy Vegan Strawberry Milkshake
Looking for a refreshing, dairy-free treat that’s both indulgent and wholesome? Minimalist Baker’s Creamy Vegan Strawberry Milkshake is your go-to.
Made with just four simple ingredients, fresh strawberries, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and coconut milk ice cubes, this shake is naturally sweetened and free from refined sugars.
The secret to its rich, creamy texture lies in the coconut milk ice cubes, which provide a velvety base without the need for ice cream. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a warm day or satisfy your sweet tooth with a plant-based twist. For an extra touch, top it with coconut whipped cream or crushed freeze-dried strawberries.
16. Triple Berry Pie
Nothing says summer like a warm slice of Triple Berry Pie bursting with fresh, juicy berries. This recipe combinies blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries in a perfectly thickened, jammy filling wrapped in a buttery, flaky lattice crust.
The stovetop step to pre-cook the berries with sugar and cinnamon ensures every bite is packed with rich flavor and the ideal texture, no runny slices here!
Whether you’re serving it at a family barbecue or enjoying it as a sweet treat after dinner, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that celebrates the best of summer’s bounty.
17. Strawberries and Cream Ice Cream Sandwiches
These Strawberries and Cream Ice Cream Sandwiches combine soft, chewy cookies loaded with dried strawberries and white chocolate chips with a creamy homemade strawberry ice cream. The eggless ice cream base is easy to make and perfectly smooth, while the cookies stay soft even after freezing. They’re a fun, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm days and sure to impress at any summer gathering.
18. Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Looking to add a splash of color and fun to your summer desserts? These Rainbow Fruit Skewers are the perfect choice. Made with five vibrant fruits; strawberries, orange, pineapple, banana, and kiwi—these skewers are as delightful to make as they are to eat. For an extra treat, drizzle with melted dark chocolate and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. They’re not only a hit at summer parties but also a great activity for kids
19. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a delightful way to enjoy this tropical fruit, enhancing its natural sugars and adding a caramelized touch. Simply slice a ripe pineapple into rings, brush with a marinade of melted butter, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, and grill until golden and tender. The result is a warm, juicy dessert that’s perfect on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
20. Mango Mousse
This Mango Mousse from Insanely Good Recipes is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of whipped cream with the vibrant, fruity flavor of ripe mangoes.
With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply treating yourself, this mousse is sure to impress.
21. Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars
If you’re searching for a delightful summer dessert, these Strawberry Sugar Cookie Bars are a must-try. They feature a soft, almond-infused sugar cookie base topped with a vibrant, naturally colored strawberry frosting made from freeze-dried strawberries, no artificial dyes needed! Perfect for potlucks, baby showers, or casual family gatherings, these bars are easy to make and slice beautifully.
There you have it, 21 summer desserts that are sure to impress!
