As the summer sun shines brightly and the air fills with the unmistakable scent of barbecues and fireworks, we know that summer desserts for a crowd are in high demand.
This beloved season is a time when friends and family gather to enjoy the outdoors, savoring the flavors of summertime. And what better way to cap off the festivities than with desserts that not only taste incredible but also bring people together? From classic favorites to creative combinations, these summer desserts for a crowd are sure to add a sweet touch to your celebration.

Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout, attending a neighborhood potluck, throwing a 4th of July party, or simply enjoying a cozy gathering at home, these treats will bring a burst of flavor to your summer festivities.
WHY ARE DESSERTS AN ESSENTIAL PART OF SUMMER CELEBRATIONS?
Desserts add an extra layer of festivity to any occasion, and summer gatherings are no exception. They provide a refreshing and indulgent way to beat the heat, while also satisfying the sweet tooth of your guests. Plus, who can resist a scrumptious treat after a day filled with outdoor activities?
WHAT MAKES SUMMER DESSERTS FOR A CROWD DIFFERENT?
Summer desserts for a crowd are all about creativity and enjoyment. From colorful fruit tarts to refreshing frozen treats, these desserts are designed to capture the spirit of the season. Not to mention that they provide a sense of refreshment on a hot summer day.
ARE THERE ANY TRADITIONAL SUMMER DESSERTS FOR A CROWD?
While there isn't a specific dessert that can be considered the "official" summer treat, there are some beloved classics. The all-time favorite ice cream sundaes, fruity cobblers, and grilled fruit kebabs are popular choices that evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort.
20 Summer Dessert Recipes For A Crowd
Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
Sweet, tart, and buttery shortbread cookies are the perfect description for my Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies. Thumbprint cookies have to be, hands down, the cutest cookies. Bite-sized little treats with the perfect portion of sweet or tart filling. Store-bought tart lemon curd makes this cookie recipe quick and easy!
Baked Blueberry Donuts
Baked blueberry donuts are a delicious treat that requires no frying! These little bites of joy are the perfect way to make your morning extra special. With a burst of fresh blueberries mixed in with fluffy donut dough, these sweet treats are sure to put a smile on any face.
White Chocolate Oreo Cheesecake
Enjoy this thick and creamy White Chocolate Oreo Cheesecake! A perfect No Bake dessert everyone will love. Cookies and cream are the best combinations. An easy summer dessert that everyone will love.
Banana Pudding Trifle
A YUMMY no-bake banana dessert! Sure to be a hit with the whole family and perfect for the summer months. Can also be served as individual servings. Top cool whip with cherries, crushed pineapple, blueberries, or fresh strawberries.
Mini Blueberry Muffins
Mini Blueberry Muffins are the perfect snack for when you don't want to make a big fuss! These bite-sized treats are sweet and juicy, and so easy to make. They look super cute, too. So why not whip up a batch (or two!) of these tasty Mini Blueberry Muffins today? You won't regret it!
Cheesecake Rice Krispies Treats
Crackly rice cereal combined with a smooth no-bake cheesecake makes these crunchy-creamy bars absolutely irresistible. Top with some raspberries and blueberries for a patriotic red, white and blue theme.
With this being a make-ahead recipe, it gives you more time to have fun with your friends and family. Also, it’s a perfect summer time treat because it’s no-bake and it’s served chilled.
4th Of July Cake Donuts
These donuts taste like my Baked Vanilla Cake Donuts but are dyed red, white and blue to be extra festive! The best part is these cake donuts are so easy and quick to make because they’re baked not fried!
4th of July Cookies
This is a tray filled with cookies that embody the vibrant hues of red, white, and blue, like edible fireworks bursting with flavor. Each cookie is a masterpiece, meticulously decorated with patriotic designs, from stars and stripes to festive bursts of color.
But these cookies aren't just eye candy; they're a culinary delight. Sink your teeth into their soft and buttery texture, and feel a burst of sweetness that perfectly balances the flavors of freedom!
Icebox Cake
This icebox cake is cool and refreshing with its layers of softened graham crackers, luscious cream filling, and fresh strawberries. It’s easy to make, there is no baking, and it can be made in advance. It’s a perfect summer treat and a great way to celebrate the 4th of July!
The Best Cinnamon Coffee Cake
A sweet cakey treat that pairs perfectly with a bold cup of coffee or a cool scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Patriotic Jello Pie
As we honor the birth of our nation with a burst of culinary creativity, this is a crafted treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy and your eyes sparkle with patriotic pride.
This show-stopping pie layers vibrant, jewel-toned jello, perfectly representing the colors of freedom: bold red, pristine white, and brilliant blue!
Cake Balls
Sweet bite-sized 4th of July cake balls are the perfect choice for your next party! With their deliciously rich vanilla flavor, patriotic red, white, and blue decorations, and colorful cake inside, these cake balls sure to be a hit with family, friends and party guests.
Summertime Cookies
With just a few pantry ingredients and festive star-shaped sprinkles, you can whip up a batch of these 4th of July Cookies in no time.
Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or heading to a fireworks display, these slice and bake cookies are the perfect accompaniment to any Independence Day celebration.
Red Velvet Cake
This classic dessert is already popular, but adding some festive touches can make it even more special. With its bright red color and creamy white frosting, this patriotic cake is the perfect centerpiece for any Independence Day party!
Firework Cupcakes
Get ready to add a spark of creativity to your 4th of July festivities with our Easy DIY Firecracker Cupcake Toppers!
With just a few materials and a touch of imagination, you'll be able to create adorable firecracker-inspired toppers that will make your treats shine like mini fireworks.
American Flag Cake
Bake a patriotic American Flag July 4th Cake with red, white, and blue marbled vanilla cake inside. And, an amazing, scrumptious, bakery-style buttercream frosting that is not too sweet, and spreads like a dream.
Show your patriotic spirit on the Fourth of July! And hand out slices of this 4th of July Flag Cake dessert for Memorial Day, Flag Day, Summer Cookouts, or Picnics.
Snack Cakes
If you’re looking for an easy patriotic dessert that is perfect for the fourth of July, Memorial Day or Labor Day, look no further than these easy American Flag Snack Cakes!
This American flag cake recipe should take you only about 15 minutes to make. With no need for a hand mixer, a paddle attachment or anything fancy, these no-bake cakes are the perfect dessert for your celebration.
Red White and Blue Trifle
This Red White And Blue Trifle is the perfect patriotic treat for your holiday celebration! This fun and festive no-bake dessert is just the thing for bringing to BBQs, potlucks, and picnics.
Show your patriotic pride by whipping up this suuuuuper easy to make red white and blue trifle!
Fruit Pizza
As the sun shines bright and the air fills with excitement, we've crafted a dessert masterpiece that captures the vibrant colors and flavors of this cherished holiday.
This delightful creation blends together the sweetness of juicy fruits, the creaminess of velvety cheese, and the crispness of a cookie crust, all harmoniously dancing on your taste buds.
Mini Pavlovas
As summer's warmth embraces us and the spirit of celebration fills the air, we've crafted a dessert that captures the essence of elegance and patriotism in every delicate bite.
These individual pavlovas, crowned with luscious peaks of whipped cream, dance with the vibrant hues of ruby-red berries and pristine white meringue.
Prepare to unleash your inner pastry chef this summer, as we embark on a culinary adventure filled with irresistible desserts that capture the essence of the season. Whether you're in search of a show-stopping centerpiece or individual treats to delight your guests, these recipes will help you celebrate summer with a sweet and satisfying finale. So let's dive into the world of summer dessert creations for a crowd!
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