No-Bake Desserts for Your Summer Sweet Tooth

Is there anything better than a refreshing, no-bake dessert recipe? Perfect for summer, these delicious treats don’t require turning on the oven, making them ideal for any occasion. These three no-bake desserts will satisfy your sweet tooth all summer long, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a poolside picnic, or simply craving something sweet:

Mixed Berry Trifle

There’s something inherently elegant about a trifle. With its layers of cream, fruit, and cake, it’s a dessert that looks just as delightful as it tastes. This Mixed Berry Trifle is no exception and is incredibly easy to make. Inspired by the trifle my husband’s aunt makes every 4th of July, it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication.

(Aunt Jane’s 4th of July Berry & Vanilla Pudding Trifle)

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 pre-made pound cake or angel food cake
• 2 cups of whipped cream (*homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup of vanilla pudding (Optional. I have made plenty of trifles with whipped cream only. The vanilla pudding is an extra step and if you don’t have time just skip it-it will still be delicious, I promise!)

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Slice the cake into cubes and wash your berries. If you’re using strawberries, slice them into halves or quarters.
   1. 1. *For Homemade whipped cream: use 2 cups of cold heavy whipping cream in a cold stand mixer bowl (I usually put my bowl and whisk in the freezer 30 minutes before using it) 2-4 TBS sugar, and 1/2-1 tsp vanilla extract. Adjust ratios of sugar and vanilla to your taste!
2. Layer It Up: In a trifle dish or large bowl, start with a layer of cake cubes. Next, add a layer of vanilla pudding or whipped cream, followed by a layer of mixed berries. Top the berries with another layer of whipped cream and then cake cubes and berries… Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your dish, ending with a layer of whipped cream.
3. Chill: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

You can customize this trifle with your favorite fruits, cake & pudding, or cream. Have fun with it, you can’t mess it up! 

Easy Deconstructed Banana Cream Pie

Growing up, my next-door neighbor made the most incredible banana cream pie, and I’ve never been able to replicate her perfect recipe. So, I created this easy, deconstructed version when my 90-year-old grandmother wanted something sweet that wasn’t chocolate and didn’t require baking.

Ingredients: 

• 1 package of graham crackers
• 2 ripe bananas
• 2 cups of whipped cream (store-bought or homemade – see recipe above)
• Mini cups or bowls

Instructions:

1. Crush the Graham Crackers: Crush the graham crackers into crumbs and sprinkle them into the bottom of your cup or dish. 
2. Add the Bananas: Slice the bananas and arrange them in a single layer over the graham cracker crust.
3. Top with Whipped Cream: Spread the whipped cream over the top of the banana layer and enjoy! Feel free to repeat steps 2 & 3 until you have your desired banana & cream ratio! 

This deconstructed Banana Cream Pie is incredibly easy to make. It’s a guaranteed hit with banana-loving kids and adults alike.

Frozen Smoothie Pops

Frozen Smoothie Pops are a refreshing and nutritious way to beat the heat on a sweltering day. They’re perfect for kids and adults and can be tailored to include your favorite fruits and yogurt. I discovered this idea after growing tired of making “too much smoothie” that my kids wouldn’t finish and didn’t want to waste it by pouring it down the drain!

Ingredients: Ratios may differ depending on how many popsicles you are making. My advice is to “make your smoothie” and then pour evenly into molds, and drink up the leftovers if there are any! 

• 2 cups of mixed frozen fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 cup of Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup of orange juice or coconut water
• Popsicle Molds (like these but I found mine at Homegoods)

Instructions:

1. Blend It Up: In a blender, combine the frozen fruit, Greek yogurt, orange juice, or coconut water. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour into Molds: Pour the smoothie mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
3. Freeze: Insert sticks and freeze for at least four hours or until completely frozen.
4. Enjoy: Run the molds under warm water for a few seconds to release the pops before serving.

These smoothie popsicles are packed with vitamins and are perfect for cooling down after a day in the sun.

Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy, fruity, or frozen, these recipes have got you covered. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy these sweet treats together. Happy summer!