I Lean On These 29 Summer Desserts When The Kids Are Melting Down

When the kids start to get tired and the day feels too long, these 29 summer desserts help calm things down. Sweet and cool treats bring smiles and quiet moments fast. No long steps or hard work just easy recipes that feel like a little break. The bright flavors and soft textures make everyone feel better right away.

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.

Rocky Road Ice Cream

A glass bowl filled with scoops of chocolate ice cream, wafer rolls, waffle biscuits, chopped nuts, and marshmallows.
Rocky Road Ice Cream. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy and loaded with texture, Rocky Road Ice Cream brings together a mix of smooth chocolate and crunchy bits. The combination adds an interesting twist with each bite. Great for a fun dessert after a family meal. Kids love how exciting it feels to mix ice cream with something extra.
Get the Recipe: Rocky Road Ice Cream

Lemon Pound Cake

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

Soft and moist, Lemon Pound Cake is refreshingly simple with just the right hint of citrus flavor. A nice slice goes well with a quick snack or after lunch treat. Its subtle tang leaves an enjoyable taste behind without overwhelming. Great for a light dessert option whenever needed.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

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.

Layers of chilled goodness, Ice Cream Cake combines creaminess with a texture in every forkful. Perfect for any time you want something cool and refreshing. It’s almost like serving happiness on a plate. Kids always light up when it’s dessert time with this one.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Cake

Rhubarb Pie

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

Sweet and slightly tart, Rhubarb Pie has a balanced flavor that’s easy to enjoy. A slice of this pie feels like a comforting treat after a long day. It’s baked to perfection with a soft filling and flaky crust. Great for sharing around the table with family or friends.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Pie

Neapolitan Ice Cream

Two scoops of Neapolitan ice cream in a glass dish, featuring chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, served with two rolled wafer cookies.
Neapolitan Ice Cream. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Smooth layers make Neapolitan Ice Cream an entertaining way to experience chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry at once. Each spoonful brings forward its own unique taste. It’s a fun dessert for anyone who likes variety. Kids especially enjoy picking their favorite flavor out of it.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

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.

Bright and refreshing, Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing makes a light dessert choice. The drizzle of lime dressing ties the fresh fruit flavors together nicely. It’s easy to scoop up bite after bite of this wholesome treat. A good option when just something simple is needed.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey & Lime Dressing

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.

Brightly colored and fun, Kool Aid Pie feels like dessert magic served in slices. Its light and creamy texture make it easy to dig into. Just the right balance of sweetness makes it appealing for kids and adults alike. A quick treat for any family meal or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

Dairy Free Ice Cream

A gold spoon scoops a portion of creamy, pale vanilla ice cream from a glass bowl.
Dairy Free Ice Cream. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Smooth and full of flavor, Dairy Free Ice Cream is a great option without needing any dairy. A nice scoop of it feels no different from any other ice cream treat. Kids love how it still tastes rich and delicious. Perfect for accommodating when preferences or allergies are in mind.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream

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.

Warm and comforting, Peach Cobbler has luscious fruit nestled beneath a soft, crumbly topping. Every spoonful feels cozy. A dessert option that makes it easy to handle sweet cravings. Kids love the balance between the juicy fruit and tender pieces on top.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler

Lemon Yogurt Loaf

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

Lightly sweet with a tangy kick, Lemon Yogurt Loaf is soft and ready to slice up. Perfect for pairing with a drink or enjoying solo. Its texture makes it enjoyable without feeling too heavy. A nice dessert choice that’s both easy and perfect for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Yogurt Loaf

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.

Layered with a mix of fresh flavors, Fruit Pizza serves up a combination that feels unique and fun. The base is soft and pairs well with the colorful toppings. A slice brings together sweetness in such an interesting way. Kids enjoy how visually exciting and tasty it is at once.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

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.

Smooth and a little indulgent, Tiramisu balances creamy layers with mild coffee flavor. It’s a dessert that feels like a nice treat for something special. Each bite delivers a soft richness without being overdone. Great for sharing when everyone craves something different.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Ice Cream Sandwich

Ice cream sandwiches with wafer cookies and ice cream containing visible berry pieces, arranged on a wooden board with a white background.
Ice Cream Sandwich. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Familiar and fun, Ice Cream Sandwich brings together a smooth center and soft cookies. It’s just the right size for grabbing a dessert on the move. Kids enjoy how playful and convenient it feels to eat one. A simple option for anytime cravings.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Sandwich

Key Lime Bars

A close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, and whipped topping, garnished with lime slices in the background.
Key Lime Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweet with a subtle tang, Key Lime Bars are soft, creamy, and smooth. Each bite balances a refreshing lime taste with just a hint of sweetness. Their size makes them an easy-to-serve treat for gatherings. A fun way to end meals that kids always seem excited about.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

4th of July Fruit Kebobs

Strawberry, blueberry, and pound cake pieces on skewers, drizzled with white icing, arranged on a white surface with colorful sprinkles.
4th of July Fruit Kebobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful and cheerful, 4th of July Fruit Kebobs offer a mix of fresh fruit on a stick. Every bite is a burst of natural sweetness with no leftovers to clean up. A great option for kids to grab and eat easily. Perfect for adding a simple treat that everyone can reach for.
Get the Recipe: 4th of July Fruit Kebobs

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

A dessert with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, a layer of red gelatin, topped with a whipped cream dollop and a strawberry slice, on a white plate with a spoon.
Strawberry Pretzel Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A mix of sweet and salty layers comes together to create Strawberry Pretzel Salad. It combines vibrant fruity goodness with a crunch in every bite. If you’re looking for a combination of textures that work perfectly together, this is it. Great for when you need something that’s simple yet pleasantly refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pretzel Salad

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.

The balance of tangy and sweet makes Lemon Bars stand out as a treat to remember. Their light texture pairs wonderfully with their bright citrus flavor. They’re perfect to share or keep for yourself while enjoying a relaxing moment. Just right when you’re in the mood for something simple and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Close-up of a slice of fruit pie with a golden, flaky crust. The filling is a mix of pink and red fruit, slightly oozing out onto the plate.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With a flaky crust and slightly tart fruit filling, Strawberry Rhubarb Pie is a true comfort dessert. The blend of juicy berries and rhubarb creates a natural burst of flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t need anything extra to shine. Serve warm or cool, it’s perfect either way.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

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.

The combination of a soft cake base, cold ice cream, and fluffy meringue makes Baked Alaska a real treat. Each layer adds a fun twist with a warm and cold contrast in one bite. It’s a dessert you don’t come across every day but feels special every time you do. Serve it to brighten any table spread.
Get the Recipe: Baked Alaska

Grape Salad

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

Cool and refreshing, Grape Salad is a blend of creamy and crunchy textures in one bite. The grapes bring natural sweetness, paired with a smooth and lightweight dressing. Simple but packed with flavor. Great for when you want something easy yet delicious.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad

Lemon Cheesecake

A slice of lemon cheesecake with a graham cracker crust is being lifted from the whole cake, which is topped with whipped cream and lemon slices.
Lemon Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and smooth, Lemon Cheesecake has that perfect hint of citrus that keeps you coming back for more. It’s light yet rich enough to feel like a treat worth indulging in. A perfect balance of creamy and fresh is what makes it so special. Serve chilled, and it’s even better.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake

Lemon Cookies

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

Soft, buttery, and full of citrus flavor, Lemon Cookies pack a flavorful punch with every bite. Their smooth texture makes them an easy favorite, and their lightness keeps them from feeling too heavy. Great for snacking, sharing, or whenever you want something sweet but not overpowering. Simple and full of character, they won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

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.

Soft cakes, fresh fruit, and a fluffy topping make Strawberry Shortcake a perfect choice. Its layers combine effortlessly to bring together a simple, tasty dessert. Sweet, light, and just rich enough to feel like a reward. Perfect for those moments when you want something uncomplicated yet delicious.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake

Mango Ice Cream

A bowl of creamy mango ice cream is garnished with fresh mango cubes and mint leaves.
Mango Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A creamy scoop of Mango Ice Cream offers bursting fruity flavor and a smooth, cool texture. It’s a perfect dessert for when you’re craving something tropical and refreshing. Whether served with toppings or eaten plain, it always brings a bright finish to any day. A go-to option when you want a taste that’s both rich and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Mango Ice Cream

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.

Smooth filling meets crisp crust in Lemon Pie, a classic dessert that’s hard to resist. Its bright and tangy center blends beautifully with a buttery pastry base. An easy-to-love option for anyone craving citrusy desserts. Serve it chilled, and it becomes even more enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

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.

Rich, creamy, and layered with chocolatey crunch, Oreo Cheesecake takes dessert to another level. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, making it a favorite for anyone who loves cookies and cream. The cookie crust and cheesecake filling come together so effortlessly. It’s one you’d want to save a second slice of for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl.
Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With its smooth texture and hints of caramel-like flavor, Biscoff Ice Cream is an unexpected treat. It’s perfect for days when you want something indulgent yet not overly sweet. Each bite offers a little creamy comfort and an unmistakable spiced cookie flavor. Add a topping or enjoy as it is—it shines either way.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream

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.

Light and fluffy, Strawberry Cake bursts with both color and flavor. Its blend of fresh fruit and sweet frosting makes it a celebration-ready option. Whether you prefer a small slice or a big one, its simplicity keeps you coming back. Plus, it adds just the right sweetness to end any meal.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cake

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 tangy, Key Lime Pie delivers bright flavors in a creamy, smooth filling. Its buttery crust adds just the right contrast to the filling’s citrus twist. A slice of this dessert feels like a refreshing change of pace. Enjoy it chilled for the best experience.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime 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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