Summer and BBQs are a perfect match. As temperatures rise, the aroma of grilled food fills the air. A refreshing dessert completes the feast among hot dogs, burgers, and veggies. From grilled peaches to no-bake cheesecakes, summer desserts offer a delightful finish to your cookout.
This blog presents 20 must-try BBQ dessert ideas, from icy berry treats to indulgent pies and classic chocolate delights. Let’s explore summer desserts to elevate your next BBQ!
1. No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
A perfect summer BBQ dessert needs simplicity and great taste. This No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake has both. Creamy cheesecake, sweet-tart strawberries, and a homemade graham cracker crust come together—no oven required! Use ripe strawberries, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and graham crackers. Mix crushed crackers with butter, press into a pan, chill, then add the creamy filling and strawberry puree. Set it in the fridge, slice, and enjoy this incredible, fruity delight!
2. Grilled Peaches
Summer brings an abundance of juicy peaches. Why not use them for a delightful BBQ dessert? Grilled peaches are fresh, light, and infused with smoky flavour. The recipe is simple: halve the peaches, remove the pit, brush with honey butter, and grill until tender with beautiful marks. The heat caramelises their natural sugars for a richer taste. Serve with ice cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or extra honey for added sweetness. These peaches make for an appealing end to any barbecue meal, captivating you with their sweet and smoky essence.
For a sweet treat to complement your cocktails, check out these delicious ice cream recipes at Awesome Cuisine.
3. Cherry Sherbet
Nothing refreshes like Cherry Sherbet on a hot summer day. This dessert combines creamy ice cream with icy sorbet and ripe cherries. Tart and easy to make, it’s also visually appealing. Blend pitted fresh cherries with sugar, lemon juice, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Chill and churn in an ice cream maker; enjoy immediately for a soft texture or freeze for scoopable consistency. Its velvety texture and bold cherry flavour will become your summer favourite—don’t forget to save some whole cherries for garnish!
4. Atlantic Beach Pie
No summer BBQ dessert is complete without pie! This Atlantic Beach Pie captures ocean vibes with its bright flavours. Traditionally served in beach cafes, it features a salty cracker crust and a tangy citrus filling with simple ingredients. The crushed saltine crust contrasts beautifully with the sweet-tart mixture of condensed milk, egg yolks, and lemon or lime juice. After baking until set, cool it and top with whipped cream. One bite offers a delightful blend of salty-sweet crust and creamy tart filling—pure summer essence.
5. Strawberry Ice Cream Pie
Craving a fruity, creamy treat for hot summer days? Try an Ice Cream Pie with strawberry ice cream—a portable sundae with a crunchy waffle cone crust. Mix crushed waffle cones and butter to make it, press into a pie dish, and freeze until firm. Spread softened strawberry ice cream over the crust and freeze again. Top with whipped cream before serving. Slice and serve at your BBQ; this delightful pie will disappear in seconds!
6. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
The Pineapple Cake is a nostalgic dessert making a glamorous comeback at summer BBQS. Moist and rich in fruity flavours, it features caramelised pineapples and cherries, revealed when flipped after baking. The simple batter benefits from sour cream for added moisture. After baking, let it cool slightly before flipping. Enjoy this golden treat topped with sticky fruit and hints of cherry. This cake will impress at your summer gathering with its delightful blend of tropical and classic flavours.
7. Ice Cream Sandwiches
Summer isn’t complete without an Ice Cream Sandwich or strawberry shortcake ice cream bars! These nostalgic treats remind us of childhood days chasing the ice cream truck. Homemade versions elevate this classic delight. Bake your favourite cookies (chocolate chip works best!), let them cool, and sandwich a scoop of malted vanilla ice cream between two cookies. The warm, chewy cookies and cold, creamy ice cream create an irresistible dessert. They’re hand-held, mess-free, and perfect for cookouts. A roll in colourful sprinkles adds delightful crunch and visual appeal!
8. Fruit Pizza
Fruit Pizza is a colourful and refreshing summer dessert that’s often overlooked. It’s made with a soft cookie crust, creamy, tangy frosting, and seasonal fruits like berries, kiwi, mango, or peaches, and it’s both pretty and tasty. Prepare a simple dough with flour, butter, sugar, and egg, bake it, and then spread cream cheese frosting atop this delicious panna cotta-inspired treat. Decorate with fruits in a circular design, chill, slice, and enjoy this fruity delight!
Check out these delicious ice cream recipes at Awesome Cuisine for a sweet treat to complement your cocktails. Also, don’t miss out on this mouthwatering Roasted Vegetable Pizza for a savoury bite!
9. Triple Chocolate Zucchini Bread
Bread as dessert may sound odd, but one bite of this Triple Chocolate Zucchini Bread will change your mind! It’s rich, moist, and packed with chocolatey goodness—thanks to cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, and milk chocolate. Grated zucchini adds excellent moisture without any veggie taste. Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, combine with zucchini, pour into a loaf pan, and bake. Cool, slice, and enjoy this decadent summer treat that chocolate lovers will crave!
10. Peach Cobbler
There’s a unique charm in the simplicity of Peach Cobbler during summer. Juicy peaches, a golden biscuit topping, and that sweet aroma are irresistible. Toss fresh peaches with sugar, flour, and lemon juice, then top with a crumbly pie crust dough. As it bakes, the peaches caramelise into a rich syrup. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it as-is. This fuss-free dessert captures the essence of summer in every bite!
11. Oreo Icebox Cake
Looking for a no-bake summer dessert that’s easy yet decadent? The Oreo Icebox Cake is your answer! Layer Oreos and whipped cream in a dish, tuck in some fresh raspberries for a fruity twist, and chill. The cookies soak up the cream, turning soft and cake-like, while the cream stays velvety smooth. It’s a nostalgic treat with grown-up flair—simple, refreshing, and perfect to wow guests at any BBQ!
12. Chocolate Milkshake
Nothing beats a frosty Chocolate Milkshake on a hot summer day—it’s a hit with kids and adults! It’s the ultimate BBQ treat, rich, creamy, and loaded with chocolate. Use high-quality chocolate ice cream, chocolate milk, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for triple the flavour. Blend just enough to keep it thick and frosty. Each sip is a perfect mix of cold creaminess and deep chocolatey goodness—simple, satisfying, and refreshing!
13. Chocolate Zucchini Cake
Chocolate Zucchini Cake might sound unusual, but it’s a genius summer dessert. Grated zucchini melts into the batter, making the cake super moist without any veggie taste. It’s a decadent, chocolaty treat with a classic cake base—flour, cocoa, sugar, eggs—and just one twist: zucchini. Once baked, it’s topped with decadent chocolate frosting. The result? A moist, indulgent cake that surprises and delights—perfect for warm evenings and a clever way to use up summer zucchini!
14. Chocolate-baked bananas
Turn simple bananas into a showstopper with Chocolate-Baked Bananas—a perfect BBQ dessert featuring banana pudding! Slice the bananas, stuff them with milk chocolate, wrap them in foil, and bake. Heat caramelises the bananas’ natural sugars, making them sweeter and softer, while the chocolate melts into gooey bliss. Serve with ice cream for that hot-cold contrast. It’s quick, needs few ingredients, and delivers rich, melty, caramel-choco goodness that’ll steal the spotlight at any summer gathering!
15. No-Bake Orange-Vanilla Cheesecake Bars
Bring back the joy of childhood summers with No-Bake Orange-Vanilla Cheesecake Bars—a creamy, citrusy nod to the classic creamsicle! With a graham cracker crust and a zesty orange-vanilla filling, these bars are cool, refreshing, and full of nostalgic flavour. No oven is needed—chill until set, slice, and serve. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the bright citrus zing, making it a standout treat at any summer BBQ!
16. Blackberry Pie
Blackberry Pie is a summer BBQ classic with fruity charm and comforting goodness in every slice. Juicy blackberries mixed with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice bubble into a luscious, jammy filling nestled in a golden, flaky crust. Once baked, it’s a beautiful blend of crisp pastry and sweet-tart berry burst. Serve warm or cool—each bite is rich, nostalgic, and perfect for making summer gatherings memorable!
17. Lemon Poppy Seed Sheet Cake
Lemon Poppy Seed Sheet Cake is the perfect way to enjoy summer’s refreshing citrus flavour! This cake combines a moist crumb, crunchy poppy seeds, and a zingy lemon punch. The magic starts by infusing lemon zest into sugar, releasing its aromatic oils. The batter bakes into a golden delight after mixing with dry and wet ingredients. A tangy lemon glaze finishes it off, adding extra citrusy sweetness. Cut into squares, it’s a vibrant, irresistible treat for warm summer days!
18. Berry Chantilly Cake
Berry Chantilly Cake is a stunning summer dessert that balances luscious flavours and textures. Soft vanilla cake layers are filled with tart berry puree and crowned with creamy mascarpone Chantilly frosting. The Chantilly cream—whipped cream, fresh whipped cream, mascarpone, sugar, and vanilla—makes this cake unforgettable. Layer it with fresh berries and chill to let the flavours blend. Each bite offers a delightful mix of smooth cream, tangy berries, and tender cake. It’s a perfect showstopper for any summer BBQ!
19. Lemon-Blueberry Sheet Cake
Lemon-Blueberry Sheet Cake is the perfect dessert to showcase the fresh flavours of summer! A tender, lemon-infused cake forms the base, with juicy blueberries folded in for a burst of berry sweetness. Topped with a tangy lemon glaze, it’s a delightful balance of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries. The cake’s soft texture, tender berries, and sticky glaze make each bite irresistible. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate BBQ treat!
20. Key Lime Cheesecake
Key Lime Cheesecake is the perfect blend of two beloved desserts—key lime pie and creamy cheesecake with cream cheese filling! It combines the tart, zesty punch of key limes with cheesecake’s rich, velvety texture. The sweetened condensed milk and cream cheese harmonise beautifully, while the buttery graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch. The bright citrusy notes of the lime perfectly cut through the cheesecake’s richness, offering the ideal balance of sweet and tart. Top with ice cream or lemon curd for an extra layer of flavour. A must-have for your next BBQ!
Conclusion
Whether hosting a summer BBQ or camping with friends, dessert is essential. These 20 exciting favourite summer desserts will satisfy your sweet tooth and provide a refreshing break from the heat. These ideas ensure successful gatherings, from juicy fruit pies and creamy homemade ice creams to no-bake cakes and decadent chocolate treats. Summer desserts showcase fresh seasonal produce—indulge in berries, citrus, or even zucchini treats. Whether you prefer classic comforts or adventurous creations, this list has something for everyone. Embrace summer BBQS, get creative with these recipes, and savour sweet moments this season!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep desserts fresh and appealing in the summer heat?
Keep your desserts fresh by serving them in chilled dishes or on ice. For transport, use insulated carriers. Consider desserts that can withstand heat, like cookies, brownies, or pies.
What are some kid-friendly dessert recipes for outdoor summer parties?
Kids will love the Strawberry Ice Cream Pie, Oreo Icebox Cake, homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches, Chocolate Milkshake, or the Chocolate Baked Bananas. These are fun, flavorful, and sure to be a hit among little ones.
Can you suggest some quick BBQ dessert recipes for a last-minute gathering?
Consider easy and quick choices for a hurried gathering, such as Grilled Peaches, chocolate-coated Bananas, homemade Chocolate Milkshakes, or Ice cream Sandwiches. They take minimum preparation time yet deliver maximum flavour.
What are the best no-bake dessert options for a summer BBQ?
For a summer BBQ, consider refreshing no-bake options like No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake, No-Bake Orange-Vanilla Cheesecake Bars, Strawberry Delight, or Fruit Pizzas. They are easy to make, chic, and universally loved.
