11 Perfect Summer BBQ Desserts to Sweeten Your Cookout
Fire up the grill, not just for the main course, but for a spectacular sweet ending too! Summer barbecues are all about smoky flavors and relaxed vibes, and that shouldn’t stop when it’s time for dessert.
This listicle is your guide to 11 mouthwatering summer BBQ dessert ideas that go beyond the usual s’mores. Get ready to discover exciting and delicious ways to utilize your grill to create unforgettable sweet treats that will impress all your guests and perfectly cap off your outdoor feast.
1. Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Ice Cream
Elevate your BBQ with sweet and smoky grilled pineapple slices. The heat caramelizes the natural sugars, enhancing their sweetness and adding a delightful charred flavor. Serve alongside a scoop of refreshing coconut sorbet for a tropical and sophisticated dessert that’s light yet satisfying after a hearty BBQ meal.
2. S’mores Skewers with Variations
Take the classic campfire treat to the grill! Thread marshmallows onto skewers with chunks of graham crackers and chocolate. Grill until golden and melty. For fun variations, add strawberries, bananas, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.
3. Grilled Stone Fruit with Honey and Yogurt
Grill halved peaches, nectarines, or plums until slightly softened and caramelized. Drizzle with honey and serve with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. The warmth of the grilled fruit combined with the cool yogurt and sweet honey creates a simple yet elegant BBQ dessert.
4. Banana Boats on the Grill
A fun and interactive BBQ dessert! Slice bananas lengthwise (without peeling completely), fill with chocolate chips, marshmallows, and chopped nuts. Wrap in foil and grill until the fillings are gooey and melted. Serve with spoons for a warm and comforting treat that’s perfect for kids and adults.
5. Grilled Pound Cake with Berry Compote
Grill slices of pound cake until they have warm, slightly crispy edges. Top with a homemade berry compote made with fresh summer berries, a touch of sugar, and lemon juice. The warm cake and the sweet-tart compote create a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
6. Watermelon Pizza with Grilled Toppings
Take the refreshing watermelon pizza to the next level by grilling some of the toppings! Grill slices of peaches or pineapple to add a smoky sweetness. Use a thick slice of chilled watermelon as the base and top with the grilled fruit, yogurt “sauce,” berries, and mint.
7. Grilled Fruit Skewers with Chocolate Drizzle
Thread chunks of your favorite fruits like strawberries, melon, pineapple, and kiwi onto skewers and grill them briefly until slightly softened and with grill marks. Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. These colorful skewers are a light and fun way to end a BBQ.
8. Campfire Cones (Grilled)
A twist on a campfire classic that can be done on the grill. Fill waffle cones with marshmallows, chocolate chips, nuts, and any other desired sweet fillings. Wrap tightly in foil and grill until everything is melty and gooey. It’s a fun and customizable dessert for everyone.
9. Grilled Peaches with Amaretto Cream
Grill halved peaches until tender and slightly caramelized. Serve with a luscious amaretto cream made with heavy cream, amaretto liqueur, and a touch of sugar. The almond flavor of the amaretto complements the sweet peaches beautifully for a sophisticated BBQ dessert.
10. Grilled Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Prepare individual portions of pineapple upside-down cake in small cast iron skillets or ramekins. Grill them over indirect heat until the cake is golden brown and the pineapple is caramelized. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a unique twist to this classic dessert.
11. Grilled Blackberry Cobbler in a Cast Iron Skillet
Bake a rustic blackberry cobbler directly on the grill in a cast iron skillet. The heat from the grill will create a wonderfully crispy topping and bubbly, sweet blackberries. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting and flavorful BBQ finale.
