12 Must-Try Summer Cookout Desserts Everyone Will Rave About
As the grill heats up and the aroma of barbecue fills the air, the perfect ending to any summer cookout is a delicious and easy dessert. But who wants to be stuck in a hot kitchen after a day of outdoor fun?
Luckily, there’s a fantastic array of no-bake and grill-friendly sweet treats that are perfect for a crowd. Get ready to impress your guests with these 12 irresistible summer cookout dessert ideas that require minimal effort and deliver maximum flavor!
1. Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Whipped Cream
Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky char. Top warm slices with a dollop of light and airy coconut whipped cream for a tropical and refreshing dessert. The combination of warm fruit and cool cream is simply irresistible at a summer cookout.
2. Strawberry Skewers with Chocolate Dip
Thread fresh, ripe strawberries onto skewers for an easy-to-handle treat. Serve with a simple melted chocolate dip for a touch of indulgence. This interactive dessert is fun for all ages and offers a lighter, fruit-forward option amidst richer cookout fare.
3. Watermelon, Feta, and Mint Skewers
For a surprisingly refreshing and savory-sweet dessert, alternate cubes of chilled watermelon and salty feta cheese on skewers. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of coolness. This unexpected combination is light, hydrating, and a palate cleanser after a hearty cookout.
4. No-Bake Berry Trifle
Layer crumbled pound cake or ladyfingers with a creamy vanilla custard or whipped cream and mixed fresh berries in a glass bowl or individual jars. The vibrant colors and textures create an elegant yet effortless dessert that can be prepared ahead of time and is perfect for feeding a crowd.
5. Peanut Butter Banana “Ice Cream” Bites
Slice ripe bananas into rounds and spread a dollop of peanut butter on one slice, topping it with another. Freeze until solid for a healthy and satisfying “ice cream” bite. These are easy to make ahead and offer a naturally sweet and protein-packed treat.
6. Lemon Raspberry Fool
This classic English dessert is incredibly simple to make. Fold together lightly sweetened whipped cream with crushed raspberries and lemon curd. The tangy lemon and sweet berries create a delightful flavor combination, and the airy texture is perfect for a warm summer evening.
7. S’mores Dip
Bring the campfire favorite to your cookout without the fire! Combine chocolate chips and marshmallows in a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe dish and heat on the grill until melted and gooey. Serve with graham crackers for dipping. It’s a warm, communal, and utterly delicious treat.
8. Key Lime Pie in a Jar
Create individual servings of key lime pie by layering crushed graham crackers, a tangy key lime filling (made with condensed milk, key lime juice, and egg yolks – no baking needed!), and a dollop of whipped cream in small jars or glasses. These are portable and offer a refreshing citrus burst.
9. Grilled Peach Melba
Grill halved fresh peaches until slightly softened and caramelized. Top with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce. The warm, sweet peaches paired with the cool ice cream and tart raspberry sauce make for an elegant and flavorful cookout dessert.
10. Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods
A simple yet satisfying sweet and salty treat. Dip pretzel rods in melted chocolate and then roll them in sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut. These are easy to make ahead and are always a hit with both kids and adults.
11. No-Bake Oreo Icebox Cake
Layers of chocolate sandwich cookies and whipped cream (or a creamy pudding mixture) are chilled until the cookies soften, creating a cake-like texture. This classic no-bake dessert is rich, chocolatey, and incredibly easy to assemble, making it a perfect cookout crowd-pleaser.
12. Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing
For a lighter and refreshing option, toss together a colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, grapes, and pineapple. Drizzle with a simple honey-lime dressing to enhance the natural sweetness and add a touch of zing. It’s a healthy and hydrating way to end a cookout.
