Sweet summer days are upon us and that means sweet summer treats. But not just any sweet treats. This summer we are looking for summer desserts that are chic and gorgeous to look at, but they don’t take a lot of effort. Think fancy, but easy.
In addition to being gorgeous to look at, we are opting for either low-effort or no-bake desserts. This takes away having to exert a lot of effort during these long hot days, which nobody wants to do right now!
Combining low effort, cooling treats, that look gorgeous, you end up with some stunningly delicious options. Many of these can be easily scaled up or down, but a perfect options for pool days or backyard parties as they can be made ahead of time.
These summer desserts use bold flavor combinations and beautiful styling to make effortlessly chic treats that are perfect to cool down with family and friends after a long summer day.
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1. Champagne and Raspberry Ice Cream Floats
Not everything chic, has to be difficult to create. Sometimes the right pairings can make a big impression. This sweet and airy twist on a classic float is just that! Not only does this raspberry sauce and Prosecco combination taste like summer, but it looks like it too!
2. Frozen S’mores
S’mores are already a summer staple, but sometimes you want them before the sun sets without the hassle of a hot fire on a sweltering summer day. This delicious version solves all those issues with a sweet, and cold, version of the summer dessert.
3. Summer Berry and Peach Cheesecake
The best parts of summer desserts are the summer fruits. Taking your favorite recipes and adding in fresh seasonal fruit is one of the best ways to do upgraded and ‘fancy’ versions of a recipe. This stunning summer berry and peach cheesecake does an incredible job of leaning into the aesthetic without leaving behind the taste.
4. Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita
You cannot talk about summer desserts without including ice cream! Summer in a bowl is this refreshing mint ice cream which is served with the quintessential summer fruit, watermelon in the form of another summer favorite, granita. Serve this refreshing cooler in a chic vessel, like these crystal-like dessert bowls, with a beautiful garnish and you will have requests for this all summer long.
Don’t forget something to serve them in!
5. Basil Mousse
Sweet and herbaceous, light on the stomach, and cool to the touch! You will not regret trying out this beautiful basil mousse! It makes for the perfect easy summer dessert when you’re looking for something that is familiar but unique.
6. Roasted Strawberries & Lime Basil Ice Cream
Sometimes a chic dessert comes in the form of flavor and ingredient choices. This ice cream is a prime example, full of bold flavors and unique combinations all in the form of a refreshing summer treat.
7. Lemon Tiramisu
Summer flavors mean brighter and bolder flavors that remind you of sunshine and warm days. Not much can compete with lemon when it comes to that. Bolder, brighter, and looks impressive but is actually easy? This lemon tiramisu checks all the boxes.
8. Chili Lime Mango Sorbet
A pairing that is not talked about enough is the cold and spicy combination! A little heat in contrast with a super cool temperature makes for a bold and fun take. This chili lime mango sorbet hit every note while being both pretty and delicious.
9. Rosewater & Pistachio Cake
Looking for something that plays with some lighter but still earthy and floral notes. This rosewater and pistachio cake is lightly sweet and stunning at the same time, topped with gorgeous homemade bark and Rose flavored Turkish Delight. You can get very creative with decorations and make a gorgeous summer confection. Don’t let the uncommon ingredients intimidate you. The best rosewater we’ve used is definitely Cortas, which is perfect for this type of recipe!
10. Mango Panna Cotta
What is the adult version of a pudding cup on a summer day? It has to be this mango panna cotta that is light, creamy, bright, and tropical, and the perfect-sized summer treat to end your day. We are taking this over a pudding cup any day!
11. Summer Berry Mini Galettes
Sweet summer pies without as much work? Sign up up! These adorable mini galettes look like they take much more work than they do but taste just as good as they look!
Chic desserts don’t have to skip out on the fun. These summer treats may look fancy with their bright colors and bold flavor choices, but we always make sure to source recipes that are doable for the home baker. You don’t have to miss out here! These summer desserts look pretty while still tasting amazing, making them perfect for everything from family dinner night to hosting a summer dinner party.
Looking for something to go with your sweet summer desserts? Check out these summer salad ideas and summer dinner ideas for some inspiration.
