Because It’s Hot And You’re Over It—Here Are 25 Desserts

When the temperature climbs and patience drops, these 25 desserts show up like the real MVPs of the day. They’re easy to enjoy when standing near a fan wondering why you ever leave the house. Cool, simple, and ready when you need a break from feeling like melted furniture.

Slice of strawberry pie on a plate with two black spoons beside it.
Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Baked Alaska

A slice of baked Alaska with a toasted meringue exterior and green ice cream center being lifted from the dessert.
Baked Alaska. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When it’s too hot to even think, pulling out Baked Alaska just makes everything feel a little cooler. It’s cold, soft, and somehow still feels like a full-on treat. You get a little bit of everything without breaking a sweat. This is how you end a long, sticky day right.
Get the Recipe: Baked Alaska

Strawberry Poke Cake

A slice of cake with a light pink and beige interior, topped with white frosting and sliced strawberries.
Strawberry Poke Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nobody wants heavy desserts when it’s warm, and Strawberry Poke Cake keeps things light but still sweet enough to feel like a real dessert. It’s soft, creamy, and looks like you put way more work into it than you actually did. Everyone loves it because it just feels easy. No stress, just good cake.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Poke Cake

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Fruit salad in a blue bowl with a spoon.
Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you need something fast and cold, Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing checks every box. It’s fresh, it’s juicy, and it won’t slow you down. You can throw it together in minutes and still feel like you made something real. This is the kind of thing you want waiting in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

Rhubarb Cake

Slice of rhubarb cake dusted with powdered sugar, on a white plate, with a silver spoon beside it.
Rhubarb Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rhubarb Cake is one of those desserts that somehow feels homey even when it’s boiling outside. It’s soft and sweet with just a little tartness to keep it interesting. You don’t need anything fancy to make it good. A simple slice goes a long way when you’re already tired from the heat.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cake

Kool Aid Pie

A slice of cream pie on a white plate, topped with whipped cream. An orange slice and a drink are in the background.
Kool Aid Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Some days call for quick wins, and Kool Aid Pie brings the win without any heavy lifting. It’s bright, it’s cool, and it brings a fun pop of flavor when you’re over everything else. No baking, no waiting forever. Just whip it up and go sit somewhere with a fan.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

Strawberry Shortcake

A close-up of a delectable strawberry shortcake reveals layers of biscuit, whipped cream, and fresh strawberry pieces on a plate. In the background, a bowl of strawberries enhances the sweet temptation.
Strawberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of soft cake, sweet fruit, and something creamy come together perfectly in Strawberry Shortcake. It’s a classic dessert loved for its simple yet rewarding mix. The balance between the textures makes it a favorite for many. Whether served big or small, it’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake

Lemon Yogurt Loaf

A sliced lemon cake topped with white icing and lemon slices.
Lemon Yogurt Loaf. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want something that feels fresh without being too heavy, Lemon Yogurt Loaf is a solid call. It’s soft, a little tangy, and easy to slice up and share. Perfect for when you want dessert but don’t want to feel weighed down. It even tastes good straight from the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Yogurt Loaf

Strawberry Dump Cake

A close-up of a fruit crumble dessert topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Strawberry Dump Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No fancy steps required with Strawberry Dump Cake, but the result feels special. The texture is soft yet crispy in places, and its simplicity gets the job done. It’s one of those desserts where the name says it all—it’s a carefree kind of deliciousness. Low effort, big payoff, everyone stays happy.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Dump Cake

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Lemon Bars hit that perfect spot when it’s too hot for heavy sweets. They’re bright, smooth, and wake you up without making you feel full. One bite is cool enough to feel like a mini break. Keep a batch on hand when the heat just won’t quit.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie with a slice removed on a white plate. Topped with lime wedge and zest, the crust is golden brown. A hand touches the plate edge, and a small bowl with cream is nearby.
Key Lime Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet and tart meet in Key Lime Pie, creating flavor that feels balanced and refreshing. Its creamy texture sets it apart while the bold kick keeps you coming back for more. The light texture makes it an ideal dessert after any meal. Whether you love bold flavors or smooth finishes, this pie delivers on both.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie

Strawberry Cake

Close-up of a slice of strawberry cake dusted with powdered sugar, showing a fluffy texture and pieces of strawberries inside.
Strawberry Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft sponge layers paired with a fruity twist make Strawberry Cake stand out. It’s fluffy, bright, and easy to enjoy from start to finish. The subtle texture keeps it interesting while offering just the right sweetness. Great for sharing, it’s one of those treats that brings a smile to the table.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cake

Peach Cobbler

A close-up of a slice of peach cobbler topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate.
Peach Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Soft peaches and golden topping make Peach Cobbler a cozy treat without much fuss. The warm base and crispy finish are what make it so special. It’s all about that perfect blend of textures and easy enjoyment. Served all at once or scooped out for seconds, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler

Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies.
Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something special about crumbling cookies into a creamy cheesecake that makes this one feel completely irresistible. Oreo Cheesecake combines layers of creaminess with the crunch of those familiar chocolate cookies. It’s rich without being overwhelming, perfect for when you need a cool dessert.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Lemon Pie

A slice of lemon pie sits on a plate next to a pie with a slice removed.
Lemon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tangy with a hint of smooth sweetness, Lemon Pie is like a refreshing escape in dessert form. The texture is perfectly balanced between creamy and firm, making it ideal for ending a meal. Every bite packs just enough bold citrus flavor. It’s bright, simple, and undeniably rewarding for those hot, sticky days.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light layers of coffee-soaked cake meet a creamy topping in Tiramisu, making it feel indulgent without being heavy. That espresso punch gives it what some might call a bold energy in dessert form. It’s hard to ignore the balance between rich and airy in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Strawberry Pie

Close-up of a strawberry pizza featuring a thin crust topped with a layer of strawberry sauce and sliced strawberries, evoking the delightful appearance of a strawberry pie with its vibrant red color.
Strawberry Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet fruit packed into a lightly crisp crust makes Strawberry Pie something you’ll want to immerse in after a long, hot day. It’s straightforward yet hits that perfect comforting spot with every bite. Refreshing with just enough crunch to keep it interesting.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pie

Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack.
Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tiny, sweet treats with just a hint of tartness—Lemon Cookies are great when you don’t want anything too heavy. They’re bright without overdoing it and give you a refreshing break in the middle of the day. With each bite, the slight crunch makes them feel light yet rewarding. Perfect to snack on or pair with a cold drink to beat the heat.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies

A close-up of a brownie square topped with a swirl of cheesecake and cherry filling.
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rich brownies meet creamy cheesecake with real fruit in Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies, making this dessert ideal if you’re torn between chocolaty or fruity options. There’s sweetness, depth, and the perfect hint of tanginess all in one bite. They stand out without feeling overcomplicated, making them an easy crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Not your average dessert, Fruit Pizza features a refreshing blend of sweetness with a touch of fruitiness that feels fun to eat. The combination of a soft base with cool toppings keeps it interesting without being overwhelming. Perfect for sharing since everyone gets a colorful slice of something fresh.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Ice Cream Cake

Close-up of strawberry shortcake slices topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Layers of cake, cream, and strawberries are visible.
Ice Cream Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layer upon layer of frozen goodness makes Ice Cream Cake the ultimate choice when you’re after something easy but crowd-pleasing. It’s cold, creamy, and multi-textured, so there’s something to enjoy in every bite. The coolness makes it ideal for battling hot days while keeping dessert fun.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

A close-up image of layered lemon raspberry cake slices topped with fresh raspberries and lemon zest.
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet with a tangy twist, Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars deliver a balance of creaminess and bold flavors without overdoing it. The layered textures keep every bite interesting and perfect for grabbing on-the-go. They’re light yet rewarding, making them a perfect choice when you want just a little something sweet.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Lemon Pound Cake

Sliced lemon cake with glaze on parchment paper, next to lemon slices.
Lemon Pound Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Smooth and dense, Lemon Pound Cake brings subtle sweetness with a touch of tartness in every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that feels just right paired with something cold to drink. The texture makes it great for slicing and sharing without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

Grape Salad

Homemade fresh grape salad in a serving bowl with walnuts scattered on top.
Grape Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When it’s too hot to deal with anything complicated, Grape Salad offers a refreshing, simple option. It’s cool, light, and doesn’t require much prep. You can make it ahead and chill it, so it’s ready whenever you need a snack or dessert. Perfect for those hot days when you need something fresh and easy.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry cheesecake on cake stand.
Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a treat that’s both creamy and fruity, Strawberry Cheesecake is a great go-to. It’s easy to make, and you can chill it until it’s time to serve. No need to turn on the oven, just let it set in the fridge. Ideal for when you want something sweet but don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake

Rhubarb Pie

Slice of strawberry pie on a plate with two black spoons beside it.
Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for something that’s light and a little tart, Rhubarb Pie is a good choice. It’s easy to make, and once it’s in the fridge, it’s ready when you are. The crisp crust and tangy filling are perfect when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Keep it cold, and it’s the perfect dessert for a hot day.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Pie

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

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.

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