When the weather starts to warm up, there’s nothing better than a summer picnic. And no picnic is complete without some delicious desserts to enjoy in the sun. Whether you’re a fan of fruity squares or rich and decadent brownies, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re in the mood for something fruity, why not try adding some fresh strawberries to your favorite dessert? You can’t go wrong with a classic strawberry shortcake or a refreshing watermelon-strawberry salad. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even make a strawberry Pimm’s cocktail to really show off your bartending skills.
For those who prefer something a little more indulgent, we’ve got plenty of options for you too. How about a batch of ooey-gooey chocolate brownies? Or maybe some mini s’mores bites that will melt in your mouth? And if you’re a fan of all things pumpkin, then you have to try our recipe for pumpkin butterscotch muffins. Trust us, they’re as good as they sound.
If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, you can’t go wrong with a classic bake. A golden apple pie or a moist carrot cake will always be a crowd pleaser. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a blackberry and rhubarb crumble? The combination of tart fruit and sweet crumble topping is a winning one.
And finally, for those who like to keep things simple, we’ve got plenty of quick and easy recipes that require minimal effort. From individual pineapple upside-down cakes to coconut jam squares, these desserts are perfect for lazy summer days. So grab your picnic basket, spread out a blanket, and enjoy these delicious treats.
Fresh and Fruity Treats
When it comes to summer desserts, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with fresh and fruity treats. Bursting with flavor and packed with natural sweetness, these desserts are perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
Watermelon-Strawberry Cups
What’s more refreshing than a juicy slice of watermelon on a hot summer day? Turn this classic fruit into a portable treat by cutting it into bite-sized cubes and layering them with fresh strawberries. For an extra special touch, drizzle with a little honey and sprinkle with mint leaves.
Chunky Mango Custard
Take your custard to the next level by adding chunks of ripe mango. Simply make a basic custard base with eggs, sugar, and milk, then fold in diced mango for a burst of tropical flavor. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added crunch.
Carrot Zucchini Bread Squares
Looking for a healthier dessert option? These carrot zucchini bread squares are the perfect choice. Packed with grated carrots, zucchini, and a hint of cinnamon, they’re moist and delicious without being overly sweet. Top with a cream cheese frosting for an extra touch of indulgence.
Strawberry Chip-Marshmallow Blondies
Blondies are like a rich, chewy version of brownies, and this strawberry chip-marshmallow version is a winner. Adding dried strawberries and mini marshmallows to the batter gives these blondies a unique twist. They’re super easy to make and always a hit at picnics.
Peach Apple Crumb Bars
Combine two summer fruits in these delightful peach apple crumb bars. A buttery crust is topped with a layer of juicy peaches and apples, then finished off with a crumb topping. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate summer dessert.
These fresh and fruity treats are sure to impress at your next picnic. Whether you’re a fan of watermelon-strawberry cups or crave the combination of peach and apple, there’s a dessert here for everyone. So pack up your picnic basket and enjoy these delicious desserts all summer long!
Creamy and Indulgent Delights
If you’re looking for a truly decadent treat to bring on your summer picnic, these creamy and indulgent delights are sure to satisfy your cravings. From rich and velvety cheesecakes to gooey chocolate brownies, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering desserts.
Pistachio and Oreo Cheesecake
This no-bake cheesecake is loaded with the irresistible flavors of pistachio and Oreo cookies. Made without any added sugar, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that will impress your picnic companions. With its creamy pistachio layer on top of a crushed Oreo crust, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser.
Watermelon-Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches
Cool down on a hot summer day with these refreshing ice cream sandwiches. The combination of juicy watermelon and sweet strawberries creates a perfectly balanced flavor. Simply sandwich the ice cream between two slices of watermelon and strawberry cookies for a delightful frozen treat.
Loaded Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
If you can’t resist a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie, then these loaded cookie bars are for you. Packed with chocolate chips, nuts, and a hint of cinnamon, these bars are a guaranteed hit at any picnic. Bake them ahead of time and pack them in your picnic basket for a sweet snack on the go.
Mango Peach Crumble
Take advantage of the juicy mangoes and peaches of the season with this delicious crumble. The sweet and tangy fruit is topped with a buttery crumble, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
S’mores Brownies
Who says you need a campfire to enjoy s’mores? These decadent brownies bring all the flavors of the classic camping treat to your picnic. A layer of graham cracker crust is topped with rich chocolate brownie batter and finished off with gooey marshmallows. It’s a surefire recipe for success.
Blueberry Cherry Coffee Cake
This moist and flavorful coffee cake is bursting with the taste of summer berries. The golden cake is studded with juicy blueberries and sweet cherries, and topped with a buttery cinnamon streusel. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, or pack it for a picnic dessert that’s sure to impress.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecakes
This playful twist on a classic sandwich will delight both kids and adults alike. Individual peanut butter cheesecakes are topped with a dollop of jelly, creating a perfect balance of sweet and creamy flavors. These adorable mini cheesecakes are sure to be the star of your picnic spread.
Bakewell Tart
Take a trip across the pond with this traditional British dessert. The Bakewell Tart is made with a pastry crust, a layer of raspberry jam, and a frangipane filling. Top it off with a drizzle of icing and some toasted almonds for a show-stopping treat that will transport you to the English countryside.
Custard-Filled Muffins
These indulgent muffins are filled with a luscious custard that oozes out when you take a bite. The moist and tender muffin pairs perfectly with the creamy custard filling, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. These muffins are a true treat for any picnic.
Golden Pecan Pie Bars
If you love the rich flavors of pecan pie but want something easier to eat on the go, these golden pecan pie bars are the answer. The buttery crust is topped with a sticky caramel pecan filling, creating a bite-sized version of this beloved dessert. They’re perfect for packing up and enjoying during your summer picnic.
These creamy and indulgent delights are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to summer picnic desserts. Whether you’re craving something fruity, chocolaty, or nutty, there’s a recipe here that will satisfy your sweet tooth. So grab your picnic blanket, gather your favorite treats, and make this summer picnic one to remember.
Mini Apple Pies: Perfectly Portable Pastries
When it comes to summer picnics, having a tasty treat that is easy to transport and enjoy is a must. That’s where mini apple pies come in. These perfectly portable pastries are a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the need for a fork or plate.
Eric, from New York, shares his method for making these delightful apple treats. It starts with a homemade apple compote, which is then spooned into individual pie crusts. Adding a lattice top or a crumb streusel is optional but highly recommended for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
The great thing about these mini apple pies is that they can be made in advance and stored in the fridge until it’s time to pack them up for your picnic. They are also a fantastic way to use up any apples that are in season or taking up space in your kitchen.
Not a fan of apples? No problem! You can also try making mini pies with other fruity fillings such as raspberry, blackberry, rhubarb, or even a combination of fruits. The sky’s the limit!
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiment with different crust flavors? Eric suggests trying a graham cracker crust for a bit of added sweetness or a gingerbread crust for a spicy twist.
These mini apple pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
And the fun doesn’t stop there. If you’re a fan of the classic flavor combination of apple and peanut butter, you can even sandwich a dollop of peanut butter between two mini pie halves for a delightful handheld treat.
Looking for more ideas to satisfy your sweet tooth? Eric also offers recipes for other delicious bite-sized treats, such as Oreo macadamia nutella cheesecakes, pumpkin whoopie pies, and Amish fudge cakes.
No matter which mini pie flavor you choose or which method you prefer, these portable pastries are sure to be a hit at your next picnic. So go ahead, bake a batch, and indulge in these yummy treats!
FAQ
What are some easy dessert ideas for a summer picnic?
Some easy dessert ideas for a summer picnic are fruit salad, cookies, brownies, and chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Can you recommend a simple recipe for a picnic dessert?
Sure! How about making a classic watermelon salad? All you need is watermelon cubes, feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. It’s refreshing and perfect for a summer picnic.
Do you have any suggestions for gluten-free picnic desserts?
Yes, there are many delicious gluten-free options for a picnic dessert. You can make gluten-free chocolate chip cookies, flourless chocolate cake, or gluten-free fruit tarts using almond flour as the base.
What are some no-bake desserts for a summer picnic?
There are plenty of no-bake desserts that are perfect for a summer picnic. You can make no-bake cheesecake, chocolate peanut butter bars, or berry parfaits with layers of yogurt and fresh berries.
Are there any healthy dessert recipes for a picnic?
Absolutely! You can make a healthy fruit salad with a mix of fresh berries, melon, and citrus fruits. Another option is to make homemade frozen yogurt popsicles using Greek yogurt and pureed fruit. They are both delicious and nutritious.
