I Was Out of Snacks and Threw Together 29 Summer Desserts
When snacks ran out, so did the excuses. That’s how 29 summer desserts ended up in the kitchen without a plan or a grocery list. Some were old favorites, others were just guesses that worked out. Either way, they filled the silence and distracted everyone from asking why dinner was late.

Grilled Pineapple

You wouldn’t think this would work so well, but it’s a game-changer. Grilled Pineapple brings out all the natural sweetness in such a simple way. Something about it feels special without much effort. It’s perfect for warm-weather meals or just a quick snack craving fix.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple
Lemon Brownies

If you’re over regular brownies, here’s a fun twist. Lemon Brownies mix a little tangy and a little sweet into every bite. They’re light but still give that dessert energy you want. Bonus: they work for casual afternoons or even more put-together get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Brownies
Melted Ice Cream Pops

When there’s leftover ice cream, this is so easy it feels like cheating. Melted Ice Cream Pops turn that into a whole new dessert with no hassle. It’s a good go-to for kids or if you’re just feeling lazy. Plus, they look like you tried harder than you actually did.
Get the Recipe: Melted Ice Cream Pops
Lemon Pound Cake

Sometimes you want something classic and reliable. Lemon Pound Cake is that dessert that just works anytime and feels wholesome. Break it out for guests or just keep some in the fridge for when you want it. It’s a solid option no matter the situation.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake
Rainbow Fruit Skewers

These are the easiest way to make something look festive without extra work. Rainbow Fruit Skewers are fun, colorful, and don’t need anything else to jazz them up. They’re cool for kids or adults, especially when you want something a bit lighter. Best part, there’s no way to mess these up.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Neapolitan Ice Cream

Stuck deciding between chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry? Neapolitan Ice Cream gives you all three so there’s no picking sides. It’s a win for anyone who can’t stick to a favorite. Just grab a scoop and call it a day.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream
Blueberry Cheesecake

Dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to feel a little fancy. Blueberry Cheesecake brings a creamy combo that just works. It’s a mix of smooth and fruity that’s pretty tough to beat. It’s a sweet ending you won’t regret reaching for.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake
Peach Cobbler

You can’t go wrong with something that feels so homey. Peach Cobbler is a warm and comforting way to cap off any meal. It’s like summer in a dish, no matter when you make it. Grab a spoon and let it take over from there.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream

If you like regular strawberry shortcake, this is a fun tweak. Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream combines all those vibes into a chill dessert. It’s a good balance of nostalgic and refreshing. Keep it on hand for when you want a quick, sweet break.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Kool Aid Pie

For something that’s barely any effort but still gives you that dessert feel, try this. Kool Aid Pie is bright, sweet, and ridiculously easy to throw together. It’s a cool dessert for warm days when you just want something refreshing. You can whip it up faster than most snacks.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Here’s a classic with a little extra coolness. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream feels fresh and chocolaty at the same time. It’s one of those go-to choices that never gets boring. Stock it up and you’re ready to scoop whenever.
Get the Recipe: Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Lemon Yogurt Loaf

If you like desserts that double as a snack, this one’s for you. Lemon Yogurt Loaf is simple but still feels just right when you want a treat. It slices up nicely for mornings or afternoons alike. Bonus, it’s not over-the-top rich either.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Yogurt Loaf
Chocolate Ice Cream

When mood calls for a classic, this always works. Chocolate Ice Cream might be basic, but there’s nothing wrong with that. Sometimes you just want simple, creamy, and straight-up chocolate. No weird toppings or extras needed here.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Ice Cream
Red Velvet Brownies

Need a dessert that feels a little dressed up without crazy effort? Red Velvet Brownies hit that sweet spot of rich and good-looking. They’re perfect for mixing up your usual brownie routine. Just slice them up and watch them disappear.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Brownies
Blueberry Cobbler

This one’s fruity, comforting, and hard to resist. Blueberry Cobbler tastes like something right out of a summer memory. It’s the right mix of soft fruit and that crisp topping everyone scrapes the pan for. It’s no fuss but delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cobbler
Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Ever seen cookies that look almost too cute to eat? These Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos are a fun and creative treat that can instantly brighten any dessert table. They’re sweet, crunchy, and almost feel like a mini art project you can eat. Definitely a win for both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos
Key Lime Bars

If you’re into something tangy with a touch of sweetness, you’re going to like Key Lime Bars. They’re simple, light, and hit the perfect balance. You might want a second piece before finishing the first. It’s one of those desserts you want to keep handy for warm days.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars
Tiramisu

Can anything really beat Tiramisu when you’re craving something creamy and luxurious? It’s rich, layered, and that coffee kick is impossible to miss. It’s great for a more laid-back dessert or something a bit fancier. You don’t even need a special occasion to dig into this.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu
Mango Ice Cream

On a hot day, nothing beats a dessert like Mango Ice Cream. It’s smooth, sweet, and carries that fresh mango vibe in every scoop. You could sneak this into any gathering, and it’d be a hit. Let’s just say it disappears faster than you’d think!
Get the Recipe: Mango Ice Cream
Chocolate Hummus

If you’re feeling adventurous, Chocolate Hummus might just surprise you. It’s creamy with a sweet twist and works with almost anything you’d like to dip in. Whether it’s crackers, fruits, or spoonfuls straight from the bowl, it’s a snack that feels different. Give it a go when you want something a little outside the box.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Hummus
Biscoff Ice Cream

Got a cookie butter obsession? Then try Biscoff Ice Cream, and thank yourself later. It’s smooth, sweet, and packed with that signature cookie flavor. Let’s just say you might finish the pint faster than you want to admit.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream
Tanghulu

Tanghulu is a super crunchy, fruity treat with just the right amount of sweetness. There’s something about that hard candy shell on fresh fruit that’s fulfilling. It’s quick, super pretty, and totally addictive. Plus, it’s a fun way to make fruit feel more like an event.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu
No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

If you like strawberries and a good dessert that doesn’t involve turning on the oven, give No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake a shot. It’s creamy, rich, and has that amazing strawberry twist on every bite. There’s no complicated steps involved, which is always a win. Plus, it looks great on a plate for any casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
Pistachio Ice Cream

For a nutty and creamy option, Pistachio Ice Cream checks all the boxes. It’s sweet, rich, and has a subtle nutty kick that’s hard to ignore. It makes a great go-to when you’re looking for a chilled snack. Plus, who doesn’t love the natural green color?
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream
Lemon Bars

If you’re in the mood for something tart and refreshing, Lemon Bars might be your jam. These little squares bring just the right amount of sweet and citrus to every bite. They’re compact enough to enjoy without feeling heavy. Perfect for a quick summer dessert emergency.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars
Oreo Cheesecake

Craving something velvety and rich? Oreo Cheesecake combines creaminess with that classic cookie texture. It’s indulgent without being too much, thanks to the mix of smooth and crunchy. A dessert like this feels like a celebration even when it’s spur of the moment.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake
Dairy Free Ice Cream

Want something cold and dairy-free? Dairy Free Ice Cream is perfect for a hot day when you need a cool pick-me-up. It’s creamy, but without the dairy, making it equal parts light and fulfilling. Everyone gets to enjoy it, no matter their dietary limits.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

On days when you want berries with a twist, Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars get the job done. They’re a mix of fruity and creamy all rolled into one convenient bite. The blend of berry tang and smooth cheesecake makes them great for sharing. A solid go-to for sunny afternoons at home.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars
Key Lime Pie

Need something tart to liven up dessert time? Key Lime Pie brings zing and richness into the same bite. It’s a classic mixture of sweet and tangy that anyone can appreciate. The pie feels homemade but still impresses if you’re serving it up to friends.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
