Sweet Summer Finale: Perfect Desserts to Enjoy After a Backyard Barbecue
There’s nothing quite like a backyard barbecue on a warm summer evening. The grill’s sizzling, the drinks are cold, and everyone’s full of good vibes—and smoky ribs. But even after the main event, there’s always room for something sweet. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night with family, these summer desserts are light, refreshing, and perfectly suited to follow a hearty barbecue meal.
1. Grilled Peaches with Honey and Vanilla Ice Cream
Why it works: Grilling brings out the natural sugars in peaches, making them caramelized and irresistible. Paired with cold vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of honey, it’s a warm-meets-cool masterpiece.
Ingredients:
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4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp honey
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Vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
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Brush peaches with olive oil.
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Grill over medium heat, cut side down, for about 4–5 minutes.
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Flip and grill for another 3 minutes.
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Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle honey on top.
2. No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Why it works: No oven needed. These individual desserts are cool, creamy, and packed with fresh berry flavor—perfect for outdoor parties.
Ingredients:
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1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
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2 tbsp sugar
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1 pound store-bought pound cake or angel food cake, cubed
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2 cups whipped cream or whipped topping
Instructions:
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Toss strawberries with sugar and let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
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Layer cubed cake, strawberries, and whipped cream into small cups or jars.
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Repeat layers and top with a fresh mint leaf.
3. Key Lime Pie Bars
Why it works: Tart, creamy, and served cold—these bars are easy to make ahead and cut into squares for easy serving after the grill shuts off.
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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6 tbsp butter, melted
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¼ cup sugar
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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4 egg yolks
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½ cup key lime juice
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Zest of 1 lime
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine crumbs, sugar, and butter and press into a lined 8×8 pan.
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Bake crust for 10 minutes.
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Whisk together condensed milk, egg yolks, juice, and zest. Pour over crust.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes. Chill for at least 3 hours before cutting into bars.
4. Watermelon Mint Granita
Why it works: Super refreshing, totally dairy-free, and you only need a blender and freezer. Great palate cleanser after ribs or burgers.
Ingredients:
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4 cups cubed seedless watermelon
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2 tbsp lime juice
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2 tbsp sugar (optional)
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Fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
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Blend watermelon, lime juice, sugar, and a few mint leaves until smooth.
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Pour into a shallow pan and freeze.
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Every 30 minutes, scrape with a fork to create fluffy ice crystals. Repeat until fully frozen.
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Serve in small cups with mint garnish.
5. Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars (No Bake)
Why it works: Creamy, citrusy, and berry-bright—these cheesecake bars are a crowd favorite and keep your kitchen cool.
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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6 tbsp melted butter
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2 tbsp sugar
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
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Zest and juice of 1 lemon
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1 cup fresh blueberries
Instructions:
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Combine crumbs, butter, and sugar and press into a parchment-lined 8×8 pan. Chill.
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Beat cream cheese, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. Fold in whipped topping.
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Spread mixture over crust and top with blueberries.
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Chill for at least 3 hours before slicing.
Final Thought
Barbecue season isn’t complete without a little something sweet to finish it off. Whether you’re leaning into chilled fruit-forward treats or creamy, citrusy indulgences, these desserts are easy, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear faster than your brisket. So fire up the grill—and save room for dessert.