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.

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.

Grilled Pineapple

Close-up of grilled pineapple rings topped with coarse salt and drizzled with syrup.
Grilled Pineapple. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

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

Close-up of a square piece of yellow cake with a smooth white icing layer on top, sitting on a light-colored surface.
Lemon Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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

Waffle ice cream cones dipped in white and dark chocolate, decorated with colorful sprinkles, arranged on a wooden surface.
Melted Ice Cream Pops. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

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

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

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

Skewers with grapes, blackberries, blueberries, kiwi, pineapple, and strawberries arranged in neat rows on a white surface.
Rainbow Fruit Skewers. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

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

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.

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

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it.
Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

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

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.

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

A bowl of strawberry swirl ice cream topped with a rectangular shortbread biscuit, with a spoon on the side.
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

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

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.

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

A glass dessert cup filled with mint chocolate chip ice cream, topped with chocolate pieces and served with rolled wafer cookies.
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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

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

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

A glass bowl filled with scoops of dark chocolate ice cream topped with chocolate shavings.
Chocolate Ice Cream. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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

Stack of four chocolate brownies with visible white chocolate chunks.
Red Velvet Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

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

A baked blueberry cobbler with a golden crust is shown in a white dish, partially served, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Blueberry Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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

Colorful ladybug-themed cookies with red tops and chocolate bases, decorated with googly eyes, sit on a bed of rainbow paper shreds.
Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

A bowl of chocolate hummus topped with chickpeas and coarse salt, surrounded by sliced peaches, apples, biscuits, and rolled wafers.
Chocolate Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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

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.

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

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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

A slice of cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, topped with strawberry sauce and fresh strawberry pieces, sits on a serving tray.
No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

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

A glass bowl holds two scoops of pistachio ice cream topped with crushed pistachios, with a waffle cone placed upside down in the bowl.
Pistachio Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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
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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