Summer is all about enjoying the outdoors, and casual dining al fresco is a key part of this. After all, who wants to spend hours in the kitchen next to a hot oven when we could be contending for a gold ribbon in the family bean bag toss? Summertime desserts should be simple and easy, with the focus on the fruits of summer. With this in mind, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite recipes that we think will make your summer the coolest one ever!
Blueberry and Corn Crisp
Fresh, sweet corn at its peak is a beautiful thing on its own, but it also happens to be a perfect addition to a blueberry crisp (think blueberry corn muffins). This recipe by Nicole Rucker of Bon Appetit features juicy blueberries topped with a cornmeal streusel mixed with fresh corn kernels. It’s easy, unique and quite delicious – an ideal summer dessert!
Simple Strawberry Shortcake Cake
There is nothing quite like the nostalgic comfort of a simple strawberry shortcake, and this vegan version is one of our favorites. It’s from Joscelyn of Wife Mama Foodie, and it features a moist vanilla cake topped with fresh coconut whipped cream and lots of fresh, juicy strawberries. And for those who are gluten intolerant, Joscelyn also includes a gluten-free version.
Peach Melba Pavlova
We love, love, love this fresh take on the classic Pavlova, a combination of soft, chewy meringue, whipped cream and a mound of fresh fruit. This version comes from Nickki of Something Sweet Something Savoury and it features fresh peach slices drizzled with a fresh raspberry sauce. One bite offers a symphony of vibrant flavors and textures, making it one of our favorite summer desserts.
Easy Fresh Berry Eton Mess
Layers of fresh, juicy berries, homemade whipped cream and chewy meringues – what’s not to love? This fresh berry Eton Mess comes from Alida of Simply Delcious, and it really does combine the best summer flavors and textures in one delectable dessert. Though the dessert should be assembled shortly before it’s served, you can make the berry sauce up to two days in advance.
Blueberry Crostata with Whole Wheat Crust
This simple Italian crostata (a cousin of the French galette) comes from Tish of Pastry at Home, and it features a crispy whole wheat crust and a juicy blueberry filling. Tish sprinkles Panko crumbs over the tart dough to sop up some of the liquid from the fruit, which prevents the crust from getting soggy and heavy. We love this dessert topped with a scoop of lemon or vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.
Cherry Pie Crumb Bars
Though you can make these crumb bars with frozen berries, why not benefit from cherry season and make them with fresh? Anna from Crunchy Creamy Sweet uses simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe to make a bar that you can eat any time of day.
4 Ingredient Coconut Peach Ice Cream
Sarah from A Saucy Kitchen shares this vegan-friendly treat, free of dairy, eggs and soy and also happens to be no-churn. Just four ingredients and you’re on your way to a homemade, delicious frozen treat without the guilt! We suggest splurging on a cone, because why not?
Homemade Fudge Pops
Michelle from Brown Eyed Baker gets right to the point and satisfies your childhood nostalgia and sweet tooth with simple fudge pops. Better than making a trip to the freezer aisle, skip the grocery store and make a few yourself. Perfect frosty treat on a hot day!
Blackberry Pie
Classic, sweet and delicious, Feast and Farm features the best way to taste seasonal blackberries — pie! Make your own pie crust or buy some and cut the time, this pie is perfect with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Strawberry Mint Freezer Jam
Preserve the season all year round with this quick and easy jam recipe from AnnMarie at Pastry at Home. No crazy canning required because the freezer does the work for you! When the weather turns cold, you’ll still have a bite of summer to enjoy.
