52 Simple Refreshing Summer Dessert Ideas

This pretty loaf cake is easy to assemble, and cooks (and cools) largely on its own. But the real clincher is the floral topping, which takes it from an everyday snack to a summer treat worthy of any celebration, occasion, or get-together.

Get the recipe for Blueberry-Lemon Loaf Cake.

Studded with fresh sweet cherries and chunks of chocolate, this ice cream will be on rotation all summer long! Leave out the brandy to make it kid-friendly!

Get the recipe for Brandied Cherry-and-Chocolate Chunk Ice Cream.

If you love all those delicious summer berries and fruits, you'll love this easy fruit crisp. This easy-peasy recipe works with whatever's in season—or in the fridge.

Get the recipe for Any Fruit Crisp.

A delicious gluten-free option for summer parties, this refreshing and lemony pie starts with a light meringue shell and is topped with plenty of whipped cream and fresh berries.

Get the recipe for Strawberry-Lemonade Angel Pie.

This easy, creamy, fruity frozen-mousse dessert is like a more airy, lighter ice cream cake — and it's gluten-free!

Get the recipe for Raspberry and Pistachio Semifreddo.

Enjoy your favorite winter beverage as a cool and creamy pie that's perfect for summer! Don't forget to add plenty of mini marshmallows on top.

Get the recipe for Hot Chocolate Ice Box Pie.

These soft, tender treats are filled with sweet fruit and mascarpone, for a kid-friendly sweet that adults will love too.

Get the recipe for Blueberry Whoopie Pies.

These bake-sale blue-ribbon staples are perfect keep-around treats. Bake a big batch and leave them on the counter for summer afternoon snacks.

Get the recipe for Raspberry Crumb Bars.

Get your strawberry fix courtesy of this crowd-pleasing pie that features a jam-like filling. This is one recipe you'll be making all summer on repeat!

Get the recipe for Strawberry-Almond Crumble Pie.

This loaf cake just might be the easiest dessert of the summer! The secret is that it starts with store bought pound cake. Grilled pineapples and an easy-to-make glaze come together quickly—and then whole deal gets well caramelized, either over hot coals or on the grill.

Get the recipe for Campfire-Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cake.

Whip up these genius waffle sandwiches for your next summer party, or anytime you need a no-bake dessert. They keep well in the freezer!

Get the recipe for Rainbow Waffle Sandwiches.

A Key lime pie is the ultimate summer dessert, especially this one that uses cucumbers for a subtle and refreshing twist.

Get the recipe for Cucumber-Key Lime Pie.

This classic summer dessert is enhanced with brandy-marinated strawberries and malted milk powder in the whipped cream. They're a delicious treat for any summer gathering or cookout!

Get the recipe for Brandied Strawberry Shortcakes with Malted Whipped Cream.

For a refreshing summer night treat, try this blackberry tart that uses an extra-creamy mascarpone-based filling.

Get the recipe for Blackberry Tart.

Make this elegant tart with a heaping topping of fresh strawberries for a summer garden party.

Get the recipe for Chamomile-Mascarpone Tart.

Chocolate lovers will adore this summer pie! Keep this cold chocolate delight in the fridge, and do your absolute best to make it last until after dinner.

Get the recipe for Rocky Road Pie.

We've also made a coconut-y version of our popular blackberry tart. We can't decide which we like better!

Get the recipe for Blackberry Coconut Tart.

Enjoy a creamy, ice-cold version of the classic Southern dessert.

Get the recipe for Peach Cobbler Ice Cream.

Almost magically simple to make, upside-down cakes make the most of caramel and fruit flavors. This bourbon-y peach version is full of Southern charm and great for outdoor gatherings, or simply as a weeknight summer dessert.

Get the recipe for Peach Upside-Down Cake.

Take advantage of summer cherries! This sweet, fruity ice cream pairs perfectly with chocolate topping.

Get the recipe for Cherries Jubilee Ice Cream.