When it comes to summer barbecues, there’s nothing quite like gathering with loved ones and indulging in sweet treats that are just as refreshing as they are delicious. To make your outdoor gatherings truly unforgettable, we’ve got a selection of show-stopping BBQ desserts that will satisfy everyone’s cravings without keeping you cooped up in the kitchen all day.
Best BBQ Dessert Recipes
S’mores Nachos
To kick off this list of sweet surprises, let’s start with something truly unique: dessert nachos that combine the classic flavors of s’mores into a deliciously gooey dip. When you think ‘dessert,’ nachos might not be the first thing that comes to mind – but trust us, this recipe will change your perspective. Imagine dipping graham crackers into a rich, chocolatey mixture filled with toasted marshmallows and crunchy textures. It’s an unconventional twist on traditional desserts that’s sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth.
Vintage Strawberry Cake
Elevate your celebrations to new heights with this indulgent vintage strawberry cake, boasting a dense and rich flavor profile that’s sure to leave everyone craving more. The crowning glory is the irresistible strawberry cream cheese topping, which adds an extra layer of appeal to this already-irresistible dessert.
Fruit Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
A classic BBQ dessert, fruit salad is a refreshing and rejuvenating treat that provides a delightful contrast to the rich flavors and textures of a main meal on a sweltering summer day. Its cooling effect is unmatched, making it an ideal choice to quench your thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth after a long afternoon in the sun.
What’s more, this effortless dessert is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and relying on nature’s sweetness to do all the work. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a quick and easy treat, fruit salad is an unbeatable choice.
Banana Cream Pie
While classic recipes have stood the test of time, there’s no denying the appeal of a timeless treat like banana cream pie. This beloved dessert is a masterclass in textures, boasting a delightful combination of crunch, crispness, and creaminess that will leave anyone craving more. Elevate this nostalgic delight by topping it with a sprinkle of shredded white chocolate, guaranteed to wow family and friends alike at any outdoor gathering. For an added layer of convenience, consider substituting pre-made puff pastry for the crust, streamlining the preparation process without sacrificing flavor or presentation.
Fresh Peach Pie
As the warmth of summer settles in, there’s no denying the allure of peaches at their peak seasonality. To fully indulge in these luscious stone fruits, few desserts surpass the simplicity and indulgence of a well-crafted peach pie. This recipe masterfully coaxes out the tender flesh and subtle floral notes that make peaches so irresistible, elevating them to new heights when paired with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream.
Vegan Orange Creamsicles
When catering to a crowd with diverse dietary needs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, you can impress your guests without compromising on taste or inclusivity. Take, for instance, these vibrant orange creamsicles that just happen to be vegan-friendly. The combination of zesty citrus and the refreshing chill of a frozen treat is sure to make them a hit at any gathering.
Traeger S’mores Dip
Imagine a sweet paradise where velvety marshmallows, rich chocolate, and satisfying Graham crackers converge in perfect harmony. S’mores dip is that very haven, effortlessly winning over hearts with its irresistible allure. What’s more, this indulgent treat requires minimal effort to prepare – simply lay out the ingredients on a baking sheet and let the magic unfold. Before you know it, you’ll be the talk of the town as everyone raves about your delectable creation.
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon Sugar
Indulge in a sweet escape without breaking a sweat by whipping up some grilled pineapple spears. The cinnamon sugar topping is the game-changer – as it caramelizes on the grill, it infuses every bite with deep sweetness and a hint of spice. Each morsel is a masterclass in contrasts: juicy, rich, yet refreshing, making them an ideal summer treat. If you’re hooked on tropical flavors, be sure to check out these Hawaiian desserts for your next indulgence.
Traeger Smoked Apple Pie
There’s something special about an apple pie at a barbecue – it’s taken to the next level when it’s smoked. The woody flavors imparted by the smoke elevate the sweetness of the apples to new heights, making for a truly unforgettable dessert. When you incorporate these smoked apples into your pie recipe, the result is a treat that’s impossible to put down, with some even finding themselves craving another bite – or two!
Brownie Blondies
If you’re short on time and need a kid-friendly treat, look no further than these unique brownie blondies. The combination of flavors may seem contradictory at first – the lightness of a blondie paired with the richness of brownie fillings. But trust us, it’s a match made in heaven. These dense, buttery treats are the perfect way to round out a hearty meal filled with meat.
BBQ Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Cake
The harmonious union of lemons and blueberries is nothing short of serendipity. The brightness of the citrus and the depth of sweetness are an unmistakable match made in culinary heaven. This divine duo can be found in perfect balance within the moist, crumbly texture of a buttermilk cake, resulting in a sweet indulgence that’s sure to steal the show at any gathering.
Lemon Brownies
While the combination of lemon and brownies may seem counterintuitive at first, the tangy sweetness of citrus-infused baked goods can be a delightful surprise. The dense, moist texture of these little cakes is perfectly balanced by their zesty flavor, making them an ideal treat for a warm summer day. Known to some as lemon icebox bars, this vintage recipe has stood the test of time due to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal.
Vegan Fudgesicles
While it may seem like a luxury, indulging in fudgesicles is truly a right worth fighting for. Fortunately, this notion extends to vegans as well! These plant-based treats boast an irresistible blend of rich chocolatey flavor, dense texture, and refreshing appeal on a sweltering day. The crowning touch, however, lies in the toasted coconut flakes that add a delightful crunch to each bite, elevating them to new heights. And yet, despite their dairy-free composition, these fudgesicles still manage to deliver an impressively creamy and silky experience.
No Bake Blueberry Lemon Ice Cream Pie with Coconut Walnut Crust
Embracing the sweetness of health, it’s possible to create a dessert that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also aligns with your wellness goals. Case in point: this scrumptious no-bake lemon and blueberry pie, which masterfully balances flavor and nutrition. The simplicity of its coconut and walnut crust is merely the icing on the cake.
BBQ Dessert Cake with Cherries
Imagine a BBQ dessert that’s literally cooked on the barbecue – yes, you read that right! By harnessing the leftover heat from your grill, you can bake a cake to perfection. The possibilities are endless, but let’s start with this unique recipe that combines the warmth of the grill with the sweetness of cherries. Simply thread some cherries onto a skewer and grill them until they’re perfectly caramelized, adding a deep flavor to your dessert. No BBQ is complete without a dollop of whipped cream, so be sure to have plenty on hand to balance out the richness of the cake. This summer, treat your taste buds to one of the best fresh cherry recipes out there!
Gluten Free Bundt Cake with Lemon Glaze and Fresh Berries
Imagine a refreshing summer treat that combines the sweetness of summer berries, the tanginess of zesty citrus, and the creaminess of kefir – all wrapped up in a gluten-free package that’s perfect for any BBQ gathering. Whether your guests follow a gluten-free diet or not, this bundt cake is sure to be a hit. The circular shape with its inviting hole in the middle makes it easy to fill with an assortment of fresh berries, so don’t be shy – get creative and pile them high!
Watermelon Dessert “Pizza.”
As we indulge in delectable pizzas, it’s not uncommon to come across innovative variations like dessert pizzas. But have you ever tried watermelon dessert pizza? It’s a game-changer! This sweet and refreshing twist on the classic recipe is the culmination of many evolutionary steps humanity has taken. I’m grateful for every one of them! The result is a treat that not only satisfies your taste buds but also encourages kids to enjoy their fruits in a fun way.
Cast Iron Orange Olive Oil Upside Down Cake
Indulge in this rich and sweet upside-down cake recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Perfect for cozying up by the campfire or sharing with loved ones on a quiet evening in, this cast-iron pan dessert is a true delight. The earthy aroma and flavors evoke a sense of connection to nature, making it an ideal treat to enjoy while surrounded by the great outdoors.
Chocolate Cherry Brownies
Indulge in the harmonious union of dark and sweet with these delightful cherry brownies. As the cherries bake, they dehydrate, infusing the rich brownie with an added layer of chewiness. This perfect combination makes them an ideal choice for bringing to a friend’s home as a dessert, as they retain their texture beautifully in a container.
Grilled Peaches with Honey Whipped Mascarpone Cream
Indulge in a sublime grilled peaches dessert that embodies simplicity, flavor, and sophistication. To unlock the full sweetness of this seasonal delight, gently scrub your grill and lay the peaches face down, allowing the caramelized goodness to shine through. As the perfect complement, crown the dish with a generous dollop of airy whipped mascarpone cream, expertly prepared in advance to elevate the treat to new heights.
S’mores Pizza with Sweet Chocolate Cookie Crust
In a culinary twist that’s sure to delight both kids and adults, we’ve elevated the classic s’mores experience from a simple dip to a decadent pizza. This sweet treat allows everyone at the gathering to indulge in a slice of heaven, combining the deep, rich flavors of chocolate with gooey marshmallows and crunchy crackers. It’s a creative way to enjoy this beloved campfire tradition in a whole new light.
Mixed Berry Cake
Summer barbecues wouldn’t be complete without a showstopping dessert that celebrates the sweetness of mixed berries. This delectable mixed berry cake is a perfect tribute, with its tender crumb and velvety frosting providing a delightful contrast to the deep, rich flavors of the berries. The best part? You can prepare the cake in advance, allowing you to focus on enjoying the party rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Simply assemble the cake just before serving, and let the oohs and ahhs roll in as your guests marvel at the masterpiece.
Peach, Almond, and Coconut Galette
In French patisserie, a galette is a refined variation of the humble tart, distinguished by its delicate slices of fresh fruit or vegetables. Paradoxically, this elegant dessert is also surprisingly straightforward to prepare, requiring less fuss than many traditional tarts. The peach, almond, and coconut galette that follows is a delightful summer treat, boasting a satisfying crunch and a floral aroma that’s sure to impress. With its ease of preparation and delectable flavor profile, this galette is an ideal choice for a quick and effortless dessert solution.
No Bake Vegan Key Lime Bars
Layered bar recipes are a staple for outdoor gatherings like picnics, potlucks, and barbecues. Their compact size allows everyone to indulge in a flavor-packed treat, making them an excellent choice for social events. The beauty of these bars lies not only in their ease of serving but also in the variety of flavors they can offer. This key lime version stands out for its dairy-free composition, resulting in a light, refreshing, and satisfying dessert perfect for rounding off your next backyard bash.
S’more Meringue Cups
The charm of serving individual portions of dessert is undeniable. It’s a detail that contributes to the enduring popularity of s’mores meringue cups, among other treats. Not only are they delicious, but their visually appealing presentation makes them an excellent choice for a quick and easy gift solution around the holiday season.
Smoked Chocolate S’mores Cheesecake
Indulge in a world of rich, dark, and luxurious flavors by discovering the delightful experience of smoked chocolate. Its smooth and mellow taste profile is elevated by an earthy hint, making it a true luxury treat. Imagine this sophisticated flavor infused into a decadent no-bake s’mores-inspired chocolate cheesecake, complete with a creamy texture that’s sure to impress. This dessert is the perfect showstopper for those looking to go above and beyond in their culinary endeavors.
Passion Fruit Bars
Indulge in the sweet taste of summer with these scrumptious tropical fruit bars that transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite. The vibrant flavors are reminiscent of a warm sunny day, distilled into bar form. What’s more, these treats require minimal effort – just five minutes of active preparation time, leaving the rest for baking and cooling to achieve the perfect gooey texture.
Banana Split Grilled Dessert Nachos
Dessert nachos have become a beloved treat, particularly among children. Their social nature makes them perfect for sharing and enjoying with friends and family – making them an ideal choice for gatherings like barbecues. The grilled fruit component of this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare on a hot barbecue grill. For those looking to make the most of a ripe banana harvest, I recommend exploring some of the best banana dessert recipes out there.
Ube Cheesecake Bars
In culinary circles, ube’s unique characteristics make it a versatile ingredient, capable of elevating both sweet and savory recipes with its earthy and robust flavors. When combined with buttery cheesecake bars, the result is nothing short of phenomenal. The striking purple-marbled swirl on top adds an extra layer of visual appeal, making this dessert truly unforgettable.
Paleo Vegan Berry Crisp
While embracing a paleo and vegan lifestyle can sometimes mean missing out on traditional BBQ treats, having a delicious dessert in tow can be a game-changer. This innovative treat is designed to satisfy even the most discerning palates, boasting a satisfying crunch and juiciness that will keep you coming back for more. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for whipping up in a flash, ensuring you’re always ready to indulge in something truly scrumptious.
Vegan Frozen Yogurt Bark with Berries
As we wrap up our exploration of creative BBQ desserts, I’m excited to share one final treat that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike: a refreshing yogurt bark packed with probiotics and fruit. This innovative snack is so well-received, I predict it’ll become an instant hit with your little ones. And don’t worry, the grown-ups will appreciate it just as much! With this delightful dessert, we’ve reached the end of our 31-day journey to simplify BBQ desserts without sacrificing flavor or fun. Have any of these ideas caught your attention? Perhaps you have a tried-and-true recipe that deserves more recognition. Please share your thoughts in the comments below and explore more tasty meal ideas on All Nutritious.
