No summer cookout is complete without a spread of delicious desserts. Whether you love refreshing fruit-based treats or indulgent chocolatey creations, there’s always room for a light dessert that rounds out your meal perfectly. From classic flavors to unique twists, the right summer dessert recipe adds pure magic to your outdoor gathering.
In this collection of 15 ultimate summer desserts, we’ve handpicked amazing treats that are quick and easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. From grilled fruit delights to no-bake favorites, these shareable treats will become your go-to summer cookout food ideas. So grab your forks because these lovely, sweet creations are about to steal the show!
Campfire Brownie Skillet
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of this Campfire Brownie Skillet, the ultimate summer dessert for your cookout. With a perfectly crispy, crackly top and an irresistibly gooey center, this treat is pure magic when enjoyed straight from the skillet. Whether you’re gathered around the fire or hosting a backyard BBQ, this shareable treat will have everyone reaching for seconds. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an amazing combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: If using a campfire, get the coals hot and place a cast-iron skillet over indirect heat. If using a grill, preheat to medium heat.
- Melt Butter & Mix: In the skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, stirring until fully incorporated. Fold in chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Cook: Spread the batter evenly in the skillet and cover loosely with foil. Place over the fire or grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is still a little soft.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with ice cream or marshmallow topping for the perfect cookout dessert!
Caramelized Grilled Pineapple
Caramelized Grilled Pineapple is a dish where the natural sweetness of the pineapple is taken to the next level with a caramelized, slightly smoky char from the grill. As it heats up, the fruit’s juices turn into a sticky, golden glaze that’s pure magic in every bite. This quick and easy dessert is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser at any cookout. Serve it as is, or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an amazing tropical treat!
Ingredients
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled and cored
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pineapple: Slice the pineapple into spears or rings, whichever you prefer.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, honey (or maple syrup), melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Coat the Pineapple: Brush each pineapple slice generously with the glaze.
- Grill: Place the pineapple on a preheated grill over medium heat. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side or until grill marks appear and the sugar caramelizes.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the grill and serve warm. For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle with additional honey and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
Chocolate-Stuffed Grilled Peaches
Chocolate-stuffed grilled Peaches are the ultimate summer dessert that combines juicy, caramelized fruit with rich, melted chocolate. The grill intensifies the natural sweetness of peaches, creating a warm, soft bite that pairs beautifully with the gooey chocolate center. Topped with a sprinkle of sugar or crushed nuts, this quick and easy dessert is both elegant and indulgent.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional: crushed nuts or coarse sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Set your grill to medium heat and brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Peaches: Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits. Brush the cut sides with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Grill the Peaches: Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear and the peaches soften slightly.
- Stuff with Chocolate: Flip the peaches over and fill the center with chopped chocolate. Cover the grill and let the chocolate melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Finish & Serve: Remove from the grill, drizzle with vanilla extract, and sprinkle with sea salt and optional toppings. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cinnamon-Sugar Churro Bites
Cinnamon-Sugar Churro Bites are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in an irresistible blend of cinnamon and sugar—these Cinnamon-Sugar Churro Bites are a pure magic dessert for any cookout. They bring all the joy of classic churros but in a quick and easy bite-sized form, making them the perfect shareable treat. Whether you dip them in chocolate sauce or caramel or eat them as is, these crowd-pleasers are guaranteed to disappear in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough or 1 ½ cups prepared churro dough
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- Oil for frying (if deep frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: If using biscuit dough, cut each biscuit into small cubes. If using homemade churro dough, shape it into small, bite-sized balls.
- Heat Oil: If frying, heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Bites:
- For Frying: Drop the dough pieces into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
- For Baking: Place the dough pieces on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: In a bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Brush each bite with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm with dipping sauces like chocolate ganache, dulce de leche, or vanilla icing for extra indulgence!
Easy Grilled Peach Cobbler
Grilled Peach Cobbler comes topped with a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream. This amazing dish captures the natural sweetness of ripe peaches, enhanced by the smoky char from the grill and a buttery, golden crumble. It’s the ultimate summer dessert for any cookout, blending rustic charm with mouthwatering flavors.
Ingredients
For the Peaches
- 4 large ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
For the Crumble Topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F). Lightly grease the grates to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Peaches: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Brush the mixture over the cut sides of the peaches.
- Grill the Peaches: Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes until caramelized with grill marks. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the butter using a fork or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly.
- Assemble the Cobbler: Remove the peaches from the grill and place them in a heat-safe pan. Sprinkle the crumble mixture generously over the top.
- Finish on the Grill: Cover the pan with foil and return it to the grill. Cook for 10 minutes until the topping is golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve & Enjoy: Spoon the warm cobbler into bowls, top with vanilla ice cream, and enjoy this crowd-pleaser under the summer sky!
Frozen S’mores Bars
Frozen S’mores Bars are a no-bake dessert that captures all the flavors of traditional s’mores—graham crackers, rich chocolate, and fluffy marshmallow—but in a creamy, frozen form. It’s the ideal make-ahead dessert for cookouts, ensuring that your guests get a chilled, indulgent bite without the need for a campfire. These shareable treats are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Layer
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Marshmallow Layer
- 1 (7-ounce) jar of marshmallow fluff
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup whipped topping
For Assembly
- 12 graham crackers, halved
Instructions
- Make the Chocolate Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Marshmallow Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the marshmallow fluff and cream cheese together until well combined. Fold in the whipped topping to create a light and airy texture.
- Assemble the Bars: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Arrange half of the graham cracker halves at the bottom. Spread the cooled chocolate mixture over the crackers and freeze for 15 minutes.
- Add the Marshmallow Layer: Once the chocolate is set, spread the marshmallow mixture evenly over the top. Place the remaining graham crackers on top, pressing down gently.
- Freeze & Serve: Cover and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. Once set, cut into bars and serve immediately for a delightful frozen treat.
Grilled Apple Crisp Foil Packets
Grilled Apple Crisp Foil Packets bring you juicy apples coated in cinnamon and brown sugar that caramelize beautifully on the grill. The crispy oat topping adds the perfect crunch. This quick and easy summer dessert is a great option for cookouts and camping trips—simply toss the packets on the grill, and in minutes, you’ll have a sweet, spiced treat topped with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 4 medium apples, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crisp Topping
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Foil Packets: Tear out four large sheets of aluminum foil. Lightly grease each pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Apple Filling: In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until evenly coated.
- Make the Crisp Topping: In another bowl, mix the oats, flour, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt until a crumbly mixture forms.
- Assemble the Packets: Divide the apple mixture evenly between the foil sheets. Sprinkle the oat mixture on top of each pile of apples.
- Seal and Grill: Fold the foil packets tightly and place them on a preheated grill over medium heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping once, until the apples are soft and bubbling.
- Serve: Carefully open the packets (watch out for steam!), and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a pure magic summer dessert.
Grilled Banana Boats
Grilled Banana Boats are a fun and indulgent dessert that turns a simple banana into a gooey, chocolatey masterpiece. Filled with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and nuts, these bananas caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a melty, s’mores-inspired treat. Perfect for summer nights, BBQs, or camping trips, this easy-to-make dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas
- ½ cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1 tablespoon caramel or chocolate drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bananas: Slice each banana lengthwise down the center, being careful not to cut all the way through. Slightly open the peel to create a pocket.
- Stuff the Filling: Fill the banana with chocolate chips, marshmallows, and chopped nuts, gently pressing the ingredients into the banana.
- Wrap and Grill: Place each banana on a sheet of foil and wrap loosely, leaving the top slightly open. Grill over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are toasty.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove from the grill, drizzle with caramel or extra chocolate if desired, and serve warm with a spoon.
Grilled Donuts with Caramel Drizzle
Grilled Donuts with Caramel Drizzle are a game-changer when it comes to summer cookout desserts. Lightly charred on the grill, these donuts get a crispy caramelized exterior while staying soft and fluffy inside. The added touch of warm, gooey caramel drizzle makes them an irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with a scoop of ice cream or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Ingredients
- 6 glazed donuts
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat and lightly grease the grates with melted butter.
- Prepare the Donuts: Brush each donut with a bit of melted butter to enhance caramelization.
- Grill to Perfection: Place the donuts on the grill and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side until grill marks appear and the glaze becomes slightly crisp.
- Drizzle and Serve: Remove from the grill, drizzle with warm caramel sauce, and sprinkle with sea salt for a gourmet touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Grilled Pound Cake with Berries
Grilled Pound Cake with Berries is an elevated take on a classic dessert, bringing a delightful contrast of textures to your summer cookout. The heat of the grill caramelizes the cake’s surface, giving it a lightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside irresistibly soft and buttery. Paired with fresh berries and a drizzle of honey or whipped cream, this quick and easy treat makes for an ultimate summer dessert that’s both elegant and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of pound cake, sliced
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 cup of mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium heat and lightly grease the grates with butter.
- Prepare the Cake: Brush both sides of each slice with melted butter to enhance caramelization.
- Grill the Pound Cake: Place slices directly on the grill and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until grill marks form and the edges become golden and crispy.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the grilled cake slices on a plate, top with fresh berries, and drizzle with honey or maple syrup. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Grilled S’mores Dip
Grilled S’mores Dip is the easiest way to enjoy the classic campfire treat without the hassle of roasting marshmallows one by one. This ooey-gooey dessert features layers of melty chocolate and golden-toasted marshmallows, all bubbling together in a cast-iron skillet. Perfect for dipping graham crackers, fruit, or even pretzels, it’s an irresistible, shareable treat that will disappear in minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows (or large marshmallows cut in half)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the skillet)
- Graham crackers, pretzels, or fruit for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat (350°F – 375°F) and lightly grease a cast-iron skillet with butter.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the chocolate chips evenly at the bottom of the skillet, then top with a generous layer of marshmallows.
- Grill Until Golden: Place the skillet on the grill grates and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chocolate is melted and the marshmallows are golden brown on top.
- Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the skillet from the grill and let it cool for a minute before serving. Use graham crackers, pretzels, or fresh fruit for dipping.
Grilled Watermelon with Honey
Grilled Watermelon with Honey is a refreshing, unique twist on a classic summer fruit. Lightly caramelized on the outside and bursting with juicy sweetness, this dish transforms the familiar flavors of watermelon into a smoky, slightly charred masterpiece. A drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness, while fresh mint adds a cooling touch, making this an amazing summer dessert recipe that’s both light and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 1 small watermelon, cut into thick slices
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped.
- Pinch of sea salt
- Cracked black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Watermelon: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, and lime juice. Brush both sides of each watermelon slice with the mixture.
- Grill the Watermelon: Place the slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until you see charred grill marks and slight caramelization.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill and sprinkle with sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh mint. Serve warm or chilled for an ultimate summer dessert.
Ice Cream Sandwich Sliders
Ice Cream Sandwich Sliders are the ultimate summer dessert that will bring a nostalgic, refreshing touch to your cookout. These mini treats feature rich chocolate wafers with a creamy vanilla ice cream filling, making them quick and easy to prepare. Perfectly portioned, these bite-sized delights are great for kids and adults alike, offering a cool and satisfying treat on a warm day. Whether you’re serving them as a fun dessert at a BBQ or as a make-ahead treat for a summer party, these crowd-pleasers will disappear in no time!
Ingredients
- 12 chocolate graham crackers (or soft chocolate cookies)
- 1-pint vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips or sprinkles (optional)
- ½ cup melted chocolate (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sandwiches: Break the graham crackers into squares (if using cookies, simply place them flat). Spread a generous scoop of softened ice cream onto half of the crackers.
- Assemble: Top each with another graham cracker or cookie, pressing gently to form a sandwich.
- Optional Coating: Roll the edges of the ice cream in mini chocolate chips or sprinkles for added texture and flavor.
- Freeze: Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Serve: Enjoy straight from the freezer or dip one side into melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch!
Toasted Coconut Pineapple Popsicles
Cool down with Toasted Coconut Pineapple Popsicles, a tropical treat that’s both creamy and refreshing. The combination of sweet pineapple, rich coconut milk, and crunchy toasted coconut flakes makes every bite a blissful escape to the islands. These quick and easy popsicles are naturally sweet, dairy-free, and packed with flavor, making them a light dessert that’s perfect for hot days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, coconut milk, honey, vanilla extract, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
- Stir in the toasted coconut flakes for an added crunch.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top.
- Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4-6 hours or until solid.
- To remove the popsicles, run the molds under warm water for a few seconds and gently pull out the popsicles.
- Enjoy your homemade tropical treat on a hot summer day!
Strawberry Shortcake Skewers
Take your classic strawberry shortcake to the next level with these grilled Strawberry Shortcake Skewers! Featuring juicy strawberries and buttery pound cake grilled to perfection, this shareable treat brings a delightful, crispy, caramelized touch to a beloved dessert. With a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cake, cut into cubes
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Thread strawberry halves and pound cake cubes onto skewers, alternating between them.
- Lightly brush the skewers with melted butter to help caramelize the pound cake.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the pound cake is golden with grill marks.
- Drizzle with honey for extra sweetness, if desired.
- Serve warm with a side of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt, and enjoy this simple yet stunning summer dessert!
Conclusion
Desserts have a way of bringing people together, making any summer cookout even more special. Whether you opt for a light dessert to balance out a heavy meal or a decadent crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone asking for seconds, these quick and easy recipes will become favorites in your cookout lineup. Now it’s your turn—let us know which of these ultimate summer desserts you’re excited to try, and if you have a favorite summer dessert recipe, we’d love to hear about it in the comments!