Summertime is usually the time for getting out there, taking a dip in the pool, and getting plenty of sunshine — but there’s no better way to cap it off than with a fresh and delicious summer dessert. Whether you’re looking for something to take to a pool party or to enjoy in the comfort of your own home, here are some easy and refreshing desserts for hot days.
Cool and Creamy Sorbets
Sorbets can be some of the simplest and most refreshing desserts to enjoy when the temperature rises — and they’re easier to make than you might think. All you need is some frozen fruit, sugar, and lemon juice, and you’ll have an intensely fruity and cooling treat that requires no baking or added fat. This simple mango sorbet recipe is a great place to start, but you can experiment with flavors like strawberry and lime, or use a combination of fruits like raspberry and peach.
Fruit and Yogurt Feasts
Want something that’s both light and indulgent? Try a chilled fruit and yogurt feast — it’s a real crowd-pleaser. Cut up some fresh, juicy fruit to mix with a Greek-style yogurt and some honey for sweetness. Mix, top with crunchy nuts and desiccated coconut, and serve chilled, in glasses or a large bowl. If you want an extra refreshing kick, add an ice cube or two with the honey or a dash of your favorite liqueur.
Cooling Popsicles
Popsicles are an all-time favorite, and they lend themselves perfectly to lighter summertime dessert recipes. You can take a classic approach and just blend fresh fruit with sugar, lemon juice, and yogurt, or go a bit more creative. Try this simple recipe for lime cheesecake popsicles, which combines lime juice, condensed milk, and cream cheese for a lemon cake-like treat that’s definitively summery.
Chocolatey Ice Cream Popcorn
If you’re looking for something with a bit more crunch, you can’t go wrong with ice cream popcorn. Start off with some salted popcorn and melt some dark chocolate. Mix the popcorn with the melted chocolate and a little bit of cocoa powder, and then spread onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze until set, break into pieces, and enjoy.
Banana Splits
Nothing says summer quite like a good old-fashioned banana split. Start by cutting a banana lengthwise and place in a bowl (or even a cup). Next, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and then top it with your topping of choice. Try a drizzle of honey and goji berries, or even a chocolatey twist using melted chocolate and toasted nuts. The possibilities are endless.
No-Bake Cheesecakes
No-bake cheesecakes are the perfect summer treat, as they’re light, creamy, and can easily be adapted to any flavor you like. Start by crushing some digestive biscuits with a rolling pin and mix with melted butter until you have a crumbly texture. Spread the crumbs into the base of your preferred dish and then make the filling with cream cheese, icing sugar, vanilla, and either fresh or frozen fruit. Chill for a few hours and you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s perfect for hot days.
Sparkling Fruit salads
If you’re looking for something even simpler, why not try a refreshing fruit salad spritzed with sparkling water or lemonade for an added hint of sparkle (literally). Start by cutting up some summer fruits like mango, berries, and peaches and put in a bowl. Add some citrus fruit juice, like orange or lemon, for a tart contrast and top with a splash of sparkling water or lemonade.
Tropical Trifles
Trifles can be taken in all sorts of directions, but they’re particularly delightful in summer when filled with tropical flavors. Start by layering slices of fresh pineapple and mango in the bottom of your dish, followed by some homemade vanilla custard. Layer with chunks of angel food cake and coconut cream, top with a sprinkle of desiccated coconut and toasted nuts, and then chill until ready to serve.
Summer Sundaes
Summer sundaes are perfect for hot days, and there’s no shortage of flavors and ingredients to choose from. Start off with a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor and then add a unique topping — try maple and whiskey ice cream with toasted pecans and a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or strawberry and lime ice cream sprinkled with basil and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy something refreshing and indulgent — and these desserts are sure to hit the spot. Whether you’re new to cooking or a veteran, there’s something here for you to try, whatever the weather. So, take a break from all the barbecues and pool parties and enjoy a truly delicious summertime treat.
