Summer picnics are all about sunshine, good company, and of course, delicious treats! This collection of easy-to-make desserts is perfect for your next outdoor gathering.
From fruity delights to classic baked goods with a twist, these recipes are designed to be portable, crowd-pleasing, and delightfully summery.
Get ready to pack your basket with some sweet sunshine!.
Table of Contents
Bite-Sized Apple Pie Cups
These adorable mini apple pies are a perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion.
Using wonton wrappers for a crisp crust, they're incredibly easy to whip up, even with little helpers in the kitchen.
Filled with sweet apple pie goodness, they're wonderfully portable and delightful topped with a dollop of cream..
Pro Tip: Store these mini pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their crispness.
Get the Recipe: Bite-Sized Apple Pie Cups
Lemon Blueberry Blondies
Bright, zesty, and bursting with juicy blueberries, these blondies are a true taste of summer.
The combination of tart lemon and sweet berries is heavenly, all in a soft, chewy bar.
Best of all, they're made without a mixer, making them a fuss-free treat that's perfect for sharing..
Pro Tip: For the cleanest cuts, let the blondies cool completely before drizzling with icing and slicing.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Blondies
Peach Streusel Cake
Celebrate the peak of peach season with this tender, moist streusel cake.
It's loaded with sweet, soft peaches and topped with a perfectly crumbly streusel topping.
Enjoy this delightful dessert on its own, with ice cream, or a warm cup of tea for a truly summery treat..
Pro Tip: Swap the fresh peaches for canned or frozen peaches if they're not in season to enjoy this cake year-round.
Get the Recipe: Peach Streusel Cake
Mini S'mores Pies
Capture the campfire magic without the flames with these incredibly easy mini s'mores pies.
Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, gooey melted chocolate, and perfectly toasted marshmallows, they're a delightful handheld treat.
They bake up in minutes, making them a fantastic last-minute dessert for any gathering..
Pro Tip: For an extra toasty marshmallow top, you can briefly put the pies under the broiler for the last 30-60 seconds, but watch them closely!
Get the Recipe: Mini S'mores Pies
Strawberry Puff Pastry Stacks
These elegant yet easy strawberry puff pastry stacks are a showstopper dessert.
Flaky puff pastry layers cradle a creamy diplomat filling and are piled high with fresh, juicy strawberries.
They're light, delightful, and perfect for impressing guests at any summer celebration..
Pro Tip: Assemble these pastry stacks just before serving to ensure the puff pastry stays wonderfully crisp.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Puff Pastry Stacks
Apricot Tart
This beautiful apricot tart showcases the sweet, slightly tart flavor of fresh apricots in a simple yet stunning dessert.
The tender fruit atop a flaky crust is a delightful combination that's perfect for summer.
It's a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal fruit..
Pro Tip: If your apricots aren't quite ripe yet, place them in a paper bag at room temperature to help them ripen faster.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Tart
Blueberry Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze
Moist, tender, and bursting with fresh blueberries, this pound cake is a summer essential.
The dense, buttery crumb is complemented by a sweet vanilla glaze for an extra touch of indulgence.
It's fantastic for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful afternoon snack..
Pro Tip: To keep this pound cake extra moist, store it whole and slice as needed, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in a sealed container.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze
Mixed Berry Angel Food Cake
This airy, light angel food cake is studded with a vibrant mix of berries, creating a beautiful and delicious dessert.
Its delicate texture pairs perfectly with the burst of fruity flavor from the berries.
It’s a refreshing and elegant treat for any summer occasion..
Pro Tip: For the lightest, fluffiest angel food cake, ensure your mixing bowl and whisk are impeccably clean, as even a speck of grease can deflate the meringue.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Angel Food Cake
Fresh Blueberry Loaf
Packed with over two cups of fresh blueberries, this blueberry loaf is a celebration of summer's bounty.
It's incredibly moist and bursting with fruity flavor, making it a wonderful alternative to muffins.
Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack any time of day..
Pro Tip: Gently stir in the blueberries by hand at the end to prevent crushing them for the best appearance and texture.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Blueberry Loaf
Orange Dreamsicle Cake
Evoking the nostalgic flavor of creamsicle bars, this cake is a delightful blend of light angel food cake, creamy orange mousse, and zesty orange buttercream.
Its bright citrus and vanilla notes make it a refreshing and festive dessert, perfect for warm weather celebrations..
Pro Tip: You can prepare the orange filling and buttercream a day or two in advance and assemble the cake on the day of serving.
Get the Recipe: Orange Dreamsicle Cake
Key Lime Pound Cake with Lime Glaze
Indulge in this zesty Key Lime Pound Cake, a delightful twist on a classic.
It features a moist, dense crumb infused with bright lime juice and zest, all topped with a tangy lime glaze.
This cake is like a tropical vacation in every slice..
Pro Tip: Add shredded coconut to the batter and sprinkle some on top for an extra layer of tropical flavor.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pound Cake with Lime Glaze
Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Dots
Experience ice cream like never before with these fun, DIY Dippin' Dots! Made by flash-freezing ice cream in liquid nitrogen, these tiny beads of frozen deliciousness offer a unique texture and are endlessly customizable with your favorite flavors..
Pro Tip: Always wear thick gloves and eye protection when handling liquid nitrogen for safety.
Get the Recipe: Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Dots
Watermelon Popsicles
These refreshing watermelon popsicles are a vibrant and healthy summer treat, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Layered to look like a slice of watermelon, they’re made with simple, natural ingredients for a guilt-free indulgence that’s incredibly cooling on a hot day..
Pro Tip: Freeze each layer for at least 30 minutes before adding the next to ensure clean, distinct layers in your popsicles.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Popsicles
Strawberry Chocolate Truffles
These decadent strawberry chocolate truffles are a delightful bite of sweet and fruity goodness.
Coated in rich chocolate and infused with the essence of strawberries, they're an elegant treat that's surprisingly easy to make.
Perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself..
Pro Tip: Store these truffles in the refrigerator to maintain their shape and texture, especially in warmer weather.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Chocolate Truffles
Peach Cobbler Pound Cake
Experience the best of both worlds with this Peach Cobbler Pound Cake.
It combines the rich, buttery texture of pound cake with the sweet, spiced flavors of peach cobbler, all topped with a luscious brown sugar glaze.
It's a delightful way to enjoy summer peaches..
Pro Tip: For a beautiful presentation, arrange the sliced peaches evenly in the bottom of the Bundt pan before adding the cobbler topping.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler Pound Cake
Lemon Raspberry Sweet Rolls
Brighten your day with these fluffy sweet rolls, bursting with zesty lemon and fresh raspberry flavors.
The soft, tender dough is filled with a sweet citrus filling and topped with a vibrant raspberry cream cheese frosting.
They're a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a special dessert, offering a perfect balance of tart and sweet..
Pro Tip: Store leftover rolls in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months for a quick treat later.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Raspberry Sweet Rolls
Lemon Cardamom Meringue Pie
Elevate the classic lemon meringue pie with a subtle, exotic twist of cardamom.
This recipe features a bright, zesty lemon filling nestled under a cloud of fluffy meringue.
The addition of cardamom adds a unique, warming spice that beautifully complements the citrus, creating a sophisticated yet comforting dessert..
Pro Tip: To prevent meringue from weeping, ensure your bowl and whisk are completely free of grease, and beat the egg whites to stiff, glossy peaks.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cardamom Meringue Pie
White Chocolate Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are a delightful spring and summer treat, infused with the sweet flavor of freeze-dried strawberries.
The tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture is enhanced by a delicate white chocolate drizzle and a sprinkle of strawberry powder.
They are surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any occasion..
Pro Tip: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days to maintain their delightful texture.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Strawberry Shortbread Cookies
Blueberry Coffee Cake
Enjoy a slice of heaven with this classic blueberry coffee cake.
A tender vanilla cake studded with juicy blueberries is topped with a generous, golden crumb topping.
It’s the perfect pairing for your morning coffee or as a comforting dessert, bringing a burst of fruity flavor and a satisfyingly sweet crumb..
Pro Tip: To prevent blueberries from sinking, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Coffee Cake
Easy Lemon Brownies
Whip up these incredibly easy lemon brownies for a burst of sunshine! Made with just a few simple ingredients, including a cake mix and lemon pudding, these brownies are soft, chewy, and packed with bright lemon flavor.
A tangy lemon glaze drizzled on top makes them utterly irresistible..
Pro Tip: For an extra punch of lemon, add lemon zest to both the brownie batter and the glaze.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Brownies
Strawberry Cookies
These vibrant pink strawberry cookies are a delight for the senses, made with natural freeze-dried strawberry powder for an intense flavor.
They have a wonderful texture – perfectly crisp on the edges with a delightfully chewy center.
Easy to make without chilling, they're a sweet treat that embodies pure strawberry bliss..
Pro Tip: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, with a paper towel to absorb moisture, for up to 2 weeks.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cookies
Crustless Poppy Seed and Lemon Cheesecake
Experience pure bliss with this creamy, crustless cheesecake, a perfect blend of tangy lemon and the subtle crunch and nutty flavor of poppy seeds.
The smooth, velvety texture is complemented by the unique addition of poppy seeds, creating a visually appealing and flavorful dessert that's a delightful departure from traditional cheesecakes..
Pro Tip: For a smoother texture, you can grind the poppy seeds into a fine powder before adding them to the mixture.
Get the Recipe: Crustless Poppy Seed and Lemon Cheesecake
Raspberry Lemon Cookies
These soft, pillowy cookies are a burst of summer flavor, combining the bright zest of lemon with the sweet-tartness of fresh raspberries.
They have a wonderfully tender, cake-like texture that makes them incredibly moreish.
Perfect for picnics or afternoon tea, these cookies are a refreshing change from the usual..
Pro Tip: Keep leftover cookies stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cookies
Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
Indulge in these delightful cupcakes that capture the essence of childhood strawberry shortcake bars.
Light and fluffy vanilla cupcakes are filled with fresh strawberries, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, and finished with a signature strawberry crunch made from Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries.
They're a perfect, festive treat for any celebration..
Pro Tip: Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
Strawberry Shortcake Cake
This airy and light strawberry shortcake cake is a dream for any fruit lover.
Delicate layers of fluffy cake are filled with whipped cream and fresh, juicy strawberries, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.
It's the ultimate summer dessert that’s both beautiful and incredibly delicious, reminiscent of classic strawberry shortcake..
Pro Tip: For best results, ensure all ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature before starting.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cake
Blueberry Lemon Cobbler
Experience the simple joy of a warm, bubbling cobbler with this easy blueberry lemon recipe.
Sweet blueberries are brightened with a touch of lemon, all nestled under a tender, golden biscuit topping.
It's the perfect comforting dessert to serve warm with a scoop of ice cream on a summer evening..
Pro Tip: Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for an extra layer of crunch and sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Lemon Cobbler
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
This delightful crisp combines the sweet tang of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, all crowned with a crunchy almond oatmeal topping.
It’s a wonderfully easy dessert that comes together in minutes, offering a perfect balance of fruity goodness and comforting texture, especially delightful served warm with ice cream..
Pro Tip: You can prepare this crisp ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
Easy Ice Cream Cake
No baking required for this incredibly simple yet decadent ice cream cake! Layers of soft, creamy ice cream are interspersed with ribbons of hot fudge and caramel sauce, plus crunchy peanuts.
It’s the ultimate customizable treat for birthdays or any celebration, offering a delightful sundae experience in cake form..
Pro Tip: For easy slicing, ensure the cake is very firm from the freezer, and use a warm knife.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ice Cream Cake
S'mores Icebox Cake
Bring the campfire indoors with this no-bake S'mores Icebox Cake! Layers of crunchy graham crackers, creamy chocolate pudding, and fluffy marshmallow creme come together for a delightful, chilled treat.
It’s a make-ahead marvel that tastes even better the next day, capturing all the magic of s'mores in a slice..
Pro Tip: If you have a kitchen torch, lightly toast the top marshmallows for an authentic, roasted s'mores flavor.
Get the Recipe: S'mores Icebox Cake
Patriotic Brownie and Fruit Cake
Celebrate Independence Day with this festive brownie and fruit cake! A rich brownie base is topped with creamy frosting and adorned with fresh blueberries, strawberries, and mini marshmallows to create a patriotic red, white, and blue design.
It's an easy, eye-catching dessert perfect for any summer gathering..
Pro Tip: Refrigerate the decorated cake until serving to keep the frosting and fruit fresh and firm.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Brownie and Fruit Cake
Lemon Icebox Cake
Beat the summer heat with this incredibly refreshing no-bake lemon icebox cake.
Layers of crisp cookies soften into a delightful cake-like texture, embraced by a light, airy, and creamy lemon filling.
It's the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it an ideal, fuss-free dessert for any sunny occasion..
Pro Tip: For a flavor twist, try using lemon Oreos, graham crackers, or crisp coconut cookies as the base.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Icebox Cake
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches
Indulge in pure summer nostalgia with these homemade ice cream sandwiches! Chewy, soft oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are the perfect cozy embrace for your favorite ice cream.
Customizable with your preferred ice cream flavor and delightful toppings, these are a guaranteed smile-maker for all ages..
Pro Tip: Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper before freezing to prevent them from sticking together.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwiches
Easy Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
Whip up a burst of sunshine with these incredibly easy, four-ingredient lemon cake mix cookies.
They boast a wonderfully soft and chewy texture with a delightful cake-like crumb.
A simple, tangy lemon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making these a bright and cheerful treat for any summer day..
Pro Tip: For an even more intense lemon flavor, use lemon extract in the cookie dough and lemon juice for the glaze.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake
This beautiful Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake is a stunning centerpiece for any summer gathering.
Tender cake bursting with juicy blueberries and bright lemon flavor, all finished with a sweet lemon glaze.
It's moist, flavorful, and utterly delightful, perfect for sharing on a warm afternoon..
Pro Tip: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature for a smooth, well-mixed batter.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake
No-Bake Raspberry Jello Cheesecake
Create a dessert that's as pretty as it is delicious with this no-bake Raspberry Jello Cheesecake.
A buttery graham cracker crust holds a light, fluffy, and vibrantly pink raspberry cheesecake filling.
It's incredibly easy to make and offers a delightful fruity flavor that's perfect for summer celebrations..
Pro Tip: Use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture in your cheesecake.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Raspberry Jello Cheesecake
Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake
Indulge in a decadent combination of rich chocolate, fresh strawberries, and creamy cheesecake.
This dessert features a crisp chocolate cookie crust, a luxuriously fluffy cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping.
It's a showstopper that perfectly balances sweet flavors and delightful textures..
Pro Tip: For an extra touch of decadence, swirl some strawberry puree or a bit of chocolate ganache into the cheesecake batter before baking.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake
Blackberry Dump Cake
Embrace effortless summer baking with this simple Blackberry Dump Cake.
The beauty of this recipe is in its name – just dump the ingredients and bake! With a sweet blackberry filling topped by a buttery, baked cake mixture, it's a comforting and fuss-free dessert that tastes amazing..
Pro Tip: Mix the melted butter directly into the cake mix before sprinkling it over the fruit for a crispier, more evenly baked topping.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Dump Cake
Mango Cookies with Crinkle Effect
Transport your taste buds to the tropics with these delightful mango cookies! Infused with mango flavor and rolled in powdered sugar for a beautiful crinkle effect, these cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with tropical goodness.
They're a unique and sunny treat perfect for any summer occasion..
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut on top after baking for an extra tropical flair and texture.
Get the Recipe: Mango Cookies with Crinkle Effect
No-Bake Blueberry Cream Pie
This no-bake Blueberry Cream Pie is the epitome of summer indulgence.
A sweet graham cracker crust cradles a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling, all topped with a generous layer of juicy fresh blueberries.
It's incredibly easy to prepare and offers a delightful, refreshing taste of the season..
Pro Tip: This pie can be made with other seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches; simply swap out the blueberries.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Blueberry Cream Pie
Strawberry Cheesecake No-Churn Ice Cream
Enjoy the dreamy flavors of strawberry cheesecake in this incredibly easy no-churn ice cream.
Made with simple ingredients, this treat delivers a wonderfully creamy texture packed with sweet strawberry and tangy cheesecake notes.
It's the perfect cool-down dessert for a warm summer day..
Pro Tip: For beautiful swirls, reserve a bit of the strawberry puree and gently swirl it through the ice cream base before freezing.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake No-Churn Ice Cream
Mango Truffles
Delight in these exquisite Mango Truffles, offering a unique tropical flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Made with real mango and rich chocolate, these elegant treats are perfect for gifting or adding a touch of luxury to your dessert spread.
They're a sweet escape to paradise..
Pro Tip: Store these decadent truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months.
Get the Recipe: Mango Truffles
Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Experience the comforting flavors of apple crisp with minimal effort thanks to this slow cooker recipe.
Sweet, tender apples are topped with a buttery oat and pecan crumble, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
It's a warm, cozy, and incredibly easy dessert perfect for any summer evening..
Pro Tip: Feel free to substitute the apple pie filling with other fruit fillings like cherry, berry, or peach for a delicious variation.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Apple Crisp
Peach Mango Hand Pies
Enjoy the taste of summer with these delightful Peach Mango Hand Pies made with convenient store-bought puff pastry.
The golden, flaky pastry encases a sweet and tender filling of ripe peaches and mango.
They're a breeze to assemble and a wonderfully satisfying portable treat..
Pro Tip: Serve these hand pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Get the Recipe: Peach Mango Hand Pies
Traditional Cherry Clafoutis
Savor the rustic charm of French patisserie with this Traditional Cherry Clafoutis.
Bursting with tender cherries nestled in a light, flan-like batter, this baked dessert is elegantly simple and wonderfully satisfying.
Its natural sweetness and delicate texture make it a perfect summery indulgence..
Pro Tip: For an authentic touch, consider using whole, unpitted cherries as traditionally done; the seeds are believed to impart a subtle almond-like flavor.
Get the Recipe: Traditional Cherry Clafoutis
Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake
Brighten your day with this moist and flavorful Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake.
Topped with a delightful crunchy lemon crumble, this cake perfectly balances the zesty tang of lemon with the sweet burst of blueberries.
It's a fantastic treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up..
Pro Tip: This cake freezes beautifully; simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Coffee Cake
Strawberry Brownies
These delightful strawberry brownies offer a chewy, gooey center with a burst of fruity flavor.
They're incredibly easy to whip up and bake in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute addition to any picnic.
The hint of strawberry adds a lovely sweetness that complements the rich chocolate..
Pro Tip: For an extra-special touch, add a few fresh strawberry slices on top before serving.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Brownies
Fresh Strawberry Yogurt Cake
This incredibly moist and not-too-sweet strawberry yogurt cake is a spring and summer dream.
Infused with bright lemon zest and dotted with fresh strawberries, it's a delightful treat for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert.
The yogurt keeps it tender, and arranging the strawberries on top makes for a beautiful presentation..
Pro Tip: Try swapping strawberries for other seasonal berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful variation.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Strawberry Yogurt Cake
Lemon Bar Cake
Capture the bright, zesty flavor of lemon bars in a tender, moist cake with this delightful recipe.
It uses cake flour for a perfect crumb and sour cream for extra richness.
The fresh lemon flavor is truly unparalleled, making it a refreshing and elegant dessert for any summer gathering..
Pro Tip: For an extra pop of lemon, add finely grated lemon zest directly into your frosting.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bar Cake
Marshmallow Fruit Dip
This incredibly easy marshmallow fruit dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, transforming simple fresh fruit into a decadent treat.
With just four ingredients, it’s a quick and creamy delight perfect for any picnic or potluck.
The smooth, sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with a variety of fruits, making it a versatile and irresistible snack..
Pro Tip: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Fruit Dip
Apple and Cherry Crumble with Oats
This comforting apple and cherry crumble is a delightful blend of sweet fruits and a buttery, crisp oatmeal topping.
It’s an easy-to-make dessert that feels both rustic and special, perfect for sharing after a summer meal.
The combination of tender fruit and crunchy topping is utterly irresistible..
Pro Tip: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for the ultimate indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cherry Crumble with Oats