When summer hits, we all know the grill becomes the star of the show—but what about dessert? Let’s be honest: once the burgers and ribs are done, everyone starts scoping out the sweet stuff. And when you serve up something fresh, fun, and easy to eat? You’re the hero of the backyard.
Whether you’re throwing a backyard bash, setting up a picnic in the park, or heading to a neighborhood potluck, these BBQ desserts will seal the deal. They’re simple to make, perfect for hot weather, and guaranteed to leave your guests raving.
We’ve rounded up the best of the best when it comes to easy desserts for BBQs: think fruity kabobs, chilled trifles, and classic sweets with a summer twist. From grab-and-go goodies to no-bake summer desserts, this list has something for every sweet tooth.
Ready to win dessert at your next cookout? Let’s dive in!
1. Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Imagine biting into a soft, lemony cookie studded with fresh strawberries—it’s like sipping lemonade under the sun, but in cookie form. These little guys are chewy, zesty, and just right for warm-weather parties.
2. Banana Pudding Brownies
Take a rich, fudgy brownie and swirl in layers of banana pudding—yes, it’s as good as it sounds. This mashup brings two beloved desserts together into one unforgettable bite.
3. Strawberry Shortcake Kabobs
Shortcake on a stick? Genius. Alternate fresh strawberries, cake cubes, and whipped cream for a handheld treat that’s as easy to eat as it is pretty.
4. Lemon Lush (No-Bake)
Craving something creamy and cold? Lemon lush layers graham crackers, tangy lemon pudding, and whipped topping into a refreshing slice of summer.
5. Peach Mousse Trifle
This one’s a showstopper. Layers of fluffy mousse, vanilla cake, and juicy peaches come together in a glass bowl that looks as amazing as it tastes.
6. Grilled Pineapple with Rum Glaze
Pineapple on the grill gets all caramelized and smoky—add a warm rum glaze and you’ve got a tropical twist on grilled fruit desserts your guests will talk about for weeks.
7. Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream
Sure, you could buy it, but there’s something magical about homemade ice cream on a hot day. Scoop it into cones or pair it with fruit for the ultimate backyard BBQ sweet.
8. Angel Food Cupcakes with Berries
Light, airy cupcakes topped with whipped cream and fresh berries? Yes please. They’re low-guilt and high-flavor—perfect for health-conscious guests.
9. No-Bake Banana Split Cake
This dessert is everything you love about a banana split, just layered in a chilled dish. Think graham cracker base, bananas, whipped topping, and cherries—easy and oh-so-cool.
10. Cheesecake Bites with Graham Cracker Crust
No oven? No problem. These mini cheesecakes are creamy, dreamy, and portable. Bonus: you can top them with whatever fruit or chocolate you like.
11. Chocolate Eclair Icebox Cake
Cool, creamy layers of pudding, graham crackers, and chocolate ganache chill overnight to create a dessert that tastes way fancier than it is.
12. Peach Swirl Cheesecake Bars
Peachy, creamy, and baked into bars, this dessert brings that down-home, sun-ripened flavor straight to your plate.
13. Brownie Fruit Pizza
Start with a brownie base, spread on whipped topping, and go wild with fresh fruit. It’s like pizza, but sweeter and way more colorful.
14. Strawberry Shortcake Sliders
Picture flaky biscuits stuffed with strawberries and cream, served slider-style. Easy to pass around, hard to stop eating.
15. Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes
Cupcakes baked inside ice cream cones? It’s dessert and novelty all in one—a guaranteed hit with the kids (and the young at heart).
16. Peanut Butter Brownie Ice Cream Sandwiches
This one’s a mouthful in the best way. Imagine chewy brownie layers hugging a scoop of peanut butter banana ice cream—now freeze it and try not to eat them all at once.
17. Puff Pastry Apple Turnovers
Golden, flaky, and filled with warm spiced apples—these turnovers feel like comfort food in a handheld pocket. Perfect for breezy summer nights.
18. S’mores Quick Bread
Everything you love about campfire s’mores, baked into a sliceable loaf. Marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers—it’s all in there.
