15 Quick Summer Treats Ready in Under 30 Minutes

Summer calls for desserts that won’t keep you stuck in a hot kitchen. These quick and easy treats let you enjoy sweet endings without the fuss.

From fresh fruit creations to no-bake delights, each recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort and time.

01. Layered Strawberry Angel Cake

Store-bought angel food cake layered with fresh strawberries and sweetened cream. This impressive dessert looks fancy but comes together in minutes.

Ingredients: 1 prepared angel food cake, 2 pounds fresh strawberries, 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup strawberry jam.

How To Make Layered Strawberry Angel Cake

1. Slice strawberries into thick pieces, reserving the prettiest ones for the top layer. Toss sliced berries with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes to release their natural juices.

2. Beat cream cheese with remaining powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with vanilla until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.

3. Tear angel food cake into bite-sized chunks and layer half in a clear trifle dish. Spread half the cream mixture over cake, then add half the strawberries.

4. Repeat layers and warm strawberry jam slightly in microwave. Drizzle over the top layer and garnish with reserved strawberry slices for a beautiful presentation.

02. No-Bake Banana Pudding

Classic Southern comfort dessert with layers of vanilla wafers and banana slices. This crowd-pleaser requires zero baking and tastes even better after chilling.

Ingredients: 1 box vanilla instant pudding mix, 2 cups cold milk, 1 container frozen whipped topping (thawed), 1 box vanilla wafers, 4-5 ripe bananas, 2 tablespoons lemon juice.

How To Make No-Bake Banana Pudding

1. Whisk pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thick and smooth. Let it sit for 5 minutes to fully set, then fold in three-quarters of the whipped topping until well combined.

2. Slice bananas into rounds and toss gently with lemon juice to prevent browning. This step keeps your pudding looking fresh and appetizing for hours.

3. Layer one-third of vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13 dish, followed by half the banana slices and half the pudding mixture. Repeat layers once more.

4. Top with remaining wafers and dollops of reserved whipped topping. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to let flavors meld together beautifully.

03. Berry Parfait Cups

Light and refreshing layered dessert with mixed berries and creamy yogurt. Perfect for entertaining or a healthy weeknight treat that looks restaurant-worthy.

Ingredients: 2 cups Greek vanilla yogurt, 1 cup mixed fresh berries, ½ cup granola, 3 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, ¼ cup chopped almonds.

How To Make Berry Parfait Cups

1. Mix Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons honey and lemon zest until smooth and well combined. This creates a bright, creamy base that perfectly complements the tart berries.

2. Gently toss mixed berries with remaining honey, allowing them to macerate slightly and release their natural sweetness. Save a few perfect berries for garnishing the tops.

3. Layer yogurt mixture, berries, and granola in clear glasses or mason jars. Repeat layers to create beautiful striped patterns that showcase each colorful component.

4. Top each parfait with chopped almonds and reserved berries. Serve immediately for the crunchiest granola, or chill up to 4 hours if you prefer softer textures.

04. Keto Chocolate Mousse

Rich and decadent chocolate dessert that’s surprisingly low-carb and sugar-free. This silky mousse satisfies chocolate cravings without the guilt.

Ingredients: 1 cup heavy cream, 4 oz cream cheese (softened), ¼ cup powdered erythritol, 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pinch of salt.

How To Make Keto Chocolate Mousse

1. Beat cream cheese until completely smooth and fluffy, ensuring no lumps remain. Gradually add powdered erythritol, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt, mixing until well incorporated.

2. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks, being careful not to overbeat. The cream should hold its shape but still be creamy and smooth.

3. Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining cream until just combined.

4. Spoon into individual serving cups and chill for at least 30 minutes. The mousse will firm up beautifully and develop an even richer chocolate flavor.

5. Serve with a dollop of extra whipped cream or a few fresh raspberries for added elegance and a pop of color.

05. Grilled Banana Splits

Campfire-style dessert with caramelized bananas and melted chocolate chips. This fun twist on the classic sundae brings outdoor cooking indoors.

Ingredients: 4 large bananas, ½ cup mini chocolate chips, ½ cup mini marshmallows, ¼ cup chopped nuts, vanilla ice cream, aluminum foil.

How To Make Grilled Banana Splits

1. Cut a deep slit lengthwise in each unpeeled banana, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the slit slightly to create a pocket for the fillings.

2. Stuff each banana with chocolate chips, marshmallows, and nuts, dividing the ingredients evenly among the four bananas. Press the fillings down gently into the pockets.

3. Wrap each stuffed banana individually in aluminum foil, sealing the edges tightly to prevent leaking during cooking.

4. Grill over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning once halfway through. The bananas should be tender and the chocolate melted when unwrapped.

5. Carefully unwrap and serve immediately with scoops of vanilla ice cream alongside the warm, gooey banana boats for the perfect temperature contrast.

06. Honey Ricotta with Fresh Fruit

Elegant Italian-inspired dessert featuring creamy whipped ricotta and seasonal fruit. This sophisticated treat requires no cooking and showcases summer’s best produce.

Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk ricotta, ¼ cup honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups mixed summer fruit, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh mint leaves.

How To Make Honey Ricotta with Fresh Fruit

1. Whip ricotta cheese with honey and vanilla using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should be smooth and airy.

2. Prepare your fruit by slicing larger pieces into bite-sized portions. Toss gently with lemon juice to brighten flavors and prevent any browning.

3. Divide the whipped ricotta among serving bowls, creating a smooth base for the colorful fruit arrangement on top.

4. Arrange fruit artfully over the ricotta and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with extra honey if desired for added sweetness and visual appeal.

07. Honey-Vanilla Peaches and Cream

Simple yet elegant dessert with fresh diced peaches and flavored crème fraîche. This refined treat looks fancy but takes just minutes to assemble.

Ingredients: 4 large ripe peaches, 1 cup crème fraîche, 3 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons vanilla sugar, fresh mint sprigs.

How To Make Honey-Vanilla Peaches and Cream

1. Dice peaches into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for extra color and texture. The natural fuzz adds rustic charm and saves prep time.

2. Gently fold honey and vanilla extract into crème fraîche until smooth and well combined. This creates a luxurious cream that perfectly complements the sweet peaches.

3. Divide diced peaches among individual serving glasses or bowls, then top each portion with a generous dollop of the honey-vanilla cream mixture.

4. Sprinkle with vanilla sugar and garnish with fresh mint sprigs for an elegant presentation that looks like it came from a high-end restaurant.

08. Pineapple Pretzel Dessert

Sweet and salty layered dessert with crushed pretzels, cream cheese, and pineapple. This unique combination delivers incredible flavor contrasts in every bite.

Ingredients: 3 cups crushed pretzels, ½ cup melted butter, 8 oz cream cheese (softened), 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 container whipped topping, 1 large can crushed pineapple (drained), 1 box vanilla pudding mix.

How To Make Pineapple Pretzel Dessert

1. Mix crushed pretzels with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 pan. This creates a salty, crunchy foundation that contrasts beautifully with creamy layers.

2. Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Fold in half the whipped topping, then spread this mixture evenly over the pretzel crust.

3. Prepare pudding according to package directions and let it cool slightly. Stir in well-drained pineapple, making sure to remove as much liquid as possible.

4. Spread pineapple pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer, then top with remaining whipped topping for a beautiful finish.

5. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving to allow layers to set properly and flavors to meld together perfectly.

09. Rainbow Fruit Kabobs

Colorful fruit skewers perfect for parties and kid-friendly entertaining. These healthy treats are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients: 2 cups strawberries, 2 cups pineapple chunks, 2 cups green grapes, 2 cups blueberries, 1 cup mini marshmallows, bamboo skewers, honey for drizzling.

How To Make Rainbow Fruit Kabobs

1. Wash all fruit thoroughly and pat dry. Cut strawberries in half if they’re large, keeping pieces roughly the same size as other fruits for even threading.

2. Thread fruit onto bamboo skewers in rainbow order: strawberries, pineapple, grapes, and blueberries. Add mini marshmallows between fruits for extra sweetness and visual interest.

3. Arrange finished skewers on a large platter and trim the pointed ends with kitchen shears to make them safer for children to handle.

4. Drizzle lightly with honey just before serving, or serve honey on the side as a dipping sauce for those who want extra sweetness.

10. Cinnamon Sugar Grilled Pineapple

Caramelized pineapple wedges with warm spices and smoky grill flavor. This Brazilian-inspired dessert transforms ordinary fruit into something extraordinary.

Ingredients: 1 fresh pineapple, ½ cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 2 tablespoons butter, coconut ice cream for serving.

How To Make Cinnamon Sugar Grilled Pineapple

1. Core and cut pineapple into thick wedges, leaving the skin on for easier handling on the grill. Pat pieces dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.

2. Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish. This spice mixture creates a beautiful caramelized crust when grilled.

3. Brush pineapple wedges with melted butter, then coat thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

4. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until caramelized and slightly charred. The natural sugars will create beautiful grill marks.

5. Serve immediately while still warm, paired with cold coconut ice cream for a perfect temperature and flavor contrast that highlights the tropical theme.

11. Balsamic Strawberries with Chocolate

Italian-style macerated strawberries with balsamic vinegar and dark chocolate shavings. This sophisticated dessert surprises with its complex flavor profile.

Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh strawberries, 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, freshly cracked black pepper, 2 oz dark chocolate (for shaving).

How To Make Balsamic Strawberries with Chocolate

1. Hull and quarter fresh strawberries, placing them in a large mixing bowl. Choose the ripest berries you can find for the best natural sweetness.

2. Sprinkle strawberries with sugar and toss gently to coat. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out their natural juices and create a light syrup.

3. Add balsamic vinegar and a few grinds of fresh black pepper, stirring carefully to combine. The acidity brightens the fruit while pepper adds unexpected depth.

4. Let the mixture macerate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature, stirring occasionally to distribute flavors evenly throughout.

5. Serve in individual bowls topped with fresh chocolate shavings made with a vegetable peeler. The bitter chocolate perfectly balances the sweet-tart fruit mixture.

12. Fresh Fruit Sponge Cake

Store-bought sponge cake transformed with vanilla syrup and seasonal fruit toppings. This impressive dessert looks bakery-made but requires minimal effort.

Ingredients: 1 prepared sponge cake, ½ cup simple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 3 cups mixed fresh fruit, ¼ cup apricot jam, 2 tablespoons water.

How To Make Fresh Fruit Sponge Cake

1. Combine simple syrup with vanilla extract in a small bowl. Brush this mixture evenly over the top and sides of the sponge cake to add moisture and flavor.

2. Arrange fresh fruit artistically on top of the cake, creating colorful patterns or concentric circles. Use a variety of shapes and colors for maximum visual impact.

3. Heat apricot jam with water in the microwave for 30 seconds, then strain to remove any lumps. This creates a smooth glaze for the fruit.

4. Brush the warm apricot glaze over all the fruit using a pastry brush, creating a beautiful glossy finish that also helps preserve the fruit’s appearance.

13. Rustic Fruit Galettes

Free-form fruit pastries using refrigerated pie crust as a shortcut. These rustic tarts look artisanal but come together quickly with minimal fuss.

Ingredients: 2 refrigerated pie crusts, 4 cups sliced seasonal fruit, ½ cup sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 egg (beaten), coarse sugar for sprinkling.

How To Make Rustic Fruit Galettes

1. Roll out each pie crust on parchment paper-lined baking sheets. The rustic look means imperfections are actually desirable, so don’t worry about perfect circles.

2. Toss sliced fruit with sugar and cornstarch until evenly coated. This mixture will thicken during baking and prevent soggy bottoms.

3. Divide fruit mixture between the two crusts, mounding it in the center and leaving 3-inch borders. Fold edges up around the fruit, pleating as needed.

4. Brush crust edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, bakery-style finish that adds both color and texture.

5. Bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes until crusts are golden brown and fruit is bubbling. Cool slightly before serving to let juices thicken.

14. Lemon Curd Berry Tarts

Individual puff pastry shells filled with store-bought lemon curd and fresh berries. These elegant tarts deliver gourmet results with minimal preparation time.

Ingredients: 6 frozen puff pastry shells, 1 jar lemon curd, 2 cups mixed fresh berries, 1 egg (beaten), powdered sugar for dusting, fresh mint leaves.

How To Make Lemon Curd Berry Tarts

1. Bake puff pastry shells according to package directions, brushing tops with beaten egg before baking for a golden, glossy finish that looks professionally made.

2. While shells are still warm, gently press down any puffed centers to create shallow wells for the filling. This ensures your toppings sit properly.

3. Let pastry shells cool completely, then fill each one with 2-3 tablespoons of lemon curd, spreading it evenly to create a smooth base.

4. Top each tart with an assortment of fresh berries, arranging them in attractive patterns that showcase the natural colors and shapes.

5. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and garnish with small mint leaves just before serving for a restaurant-quality presentation that impresses every time.

15. Prosciutto-Wrapped Grilled Peaches

Savory-sweet dessert combining smoky prosciutto, grilled peaches, and creamy burrata cheese. This sophisticated dish blurs the line between appetizer and dessert.

Ingredients: 4 large peaches (halved and pitted), 8 thin slices prosciutto, 8 oz burrata cheese, fresh basil leaves, balsamic glaze, olive oil, cracked black pepper.

How To Make Prosciutto-Wrapped Grilled Peaches

1. Wrap each peach half with a slice of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if needed. The salty meat will crisp up beautifully on the grill.

2. Brush wrapped peaches lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and help achieve nice grill marks during cooking.

3. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until prosciutto is crispy and peaches are caramelized with beautiful char marks.

4. Arrange grilled peaches on a serving platter and tear burrata into generous chunks, distributing around and over the warm fruit.

5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Finish with cracked black pepper for a sophisticated flavor combination.

6. Serve immediately while peaches are still warm and burrata is slightly melted from the heat, creating the perfect temperature contrast.

Final Thoughts

These quick summer desserts prove you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create memorable treats. Each recipe celebrates seasonal flavors while keeping preparation simple.

From elegant fruit presentations to playful grilled creations, there’s something here for every occasion and skill level this summer season.