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Summer potlucks are the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family while indulging in delicious homemade dishes.
While the main course often steals the spotlight, it’s the desserts that leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re hosting or attending, choosing the right dessert is key to making sure your contribution stands out.
From fruity and refreshing to indulgently creamy, there are endless options to satisfy every sweet tooth at your summer gathering.
In this article, we’ve curated a list of 29+ summer potluck dessert recipes that are guaranteed to wow your guests.
These desserts are easy to make, visually stunning, and most importantly, perfect for the warm weather.
29+ Irresistible Summer Potluck Dessert Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests
With these 29+ summer potluck dessert recipes, your next gathering is sure to be a hit.
From lighter fruit-based desserts to rich, indulgent treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
These recipes are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, allowing you to focus on enjoying the day with loved ones.
So, whether you’re attending a picnic, BBQ, or family reunion, these desserts will add the perfect sweet ending to any summer occasion.
Lemon Berry Trifle
There’s something about lemon and berries that feels like pure sunshine in dessert form.
This Lemon Berry Trifle is a gorgeous layered dessert that looks impressive but is incredibly easy to throw together for a summer potluck. Light, sweet, and refreshing, it’s perfect for those warm days when you want a dessert that’s both pretty and crowd-pleasing.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound cake or angel food cake, cubed
- 1 cup lemon curd
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Instructions:
- In a large bowl, fold the whipped cream into the lemon curd until smooth.
- In a clear trifle dish or large glass bowl, layer half the cake cubes.
- Spread half the lemon mixture over the cake.
- Scatter half the berries over the lemon layer.
- Repeat layers: cake, lemon mixture, berries.
- Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest on top.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
This Lemon Berry Trifle will steal the show at any summer event.
Its bright, citrusy flavor combined with the natural sweetness of berries is irresistible, and the beautiful layers make it a festive centerpiece that’s almost too pretty to eat (almost!).
No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
When the weather is hot and the last thing you want is to turn on the oven, these No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are a life-saver.
They’re rich, decadent, and packed with the classic flavor combo everyone loves—perfect for a casual gathering or a more formal potluck.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (for the topping)
- Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 8×8-inch pan.
- Melt chocolate chips and the 2 tablespoons peanut butter together until smooth, either in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Spread the chocolate mixture evenly over the peanut butter base.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Cut into squares before serving.
These bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with their perfect balance of salty, sweet, and chocolatey goodness.
Plus, they travel well, making them ideal for outdoor events or when you need to bring something ahead of time without any fuss.
Peach Cobbler Bars
Capture the flavors of a classic summer cobbler in a handheld form with these Peach Cobbler Bars.
Bursting with juicy peaches and a buttery crumble topping, these bars are a wonderful mix of comfort food and convenience—perfect for when you want a taste of something homemade but easy enough to share at a large gathering.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups diced fresh peaches
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt to form a dough.
- Press half the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, toss peaches with cornstarch and cinnamon.
- Spread the peach mixture over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the peaches.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
These Peach Cobbler Bars offer the juicy, summery flavor you crave with the easy-to-serve convenience of a bar dessert.
They’re a wonderful way to bring a taste of homemade tradition to any summer potluck without the mess of scooping out a full cobbler.
Strawberry Shortcake Skewers
Strawberry Shortcake Skewers are the ultimate grab-and-go dessert for summer potlucks.
They take the beloved flavors of classic strawberry shortcake and turn them into a fun, handheld treat that looks adorable on a serving table. Plus, they’re super easy to make and don’t require any baking if you use store-bought pound cake.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Wooden skewers
- Instructions:
- Thread a cube of pound cake onto a skewer, followed by a strawberry half.
- Repeat until the skewer is filled (about 4–5 pieces of each).
- Arrange skewers on a platter.
- Drizzle or dollop whipped cream on top just before serving, or serve it on the side for dipping.
These playful Strawberry Shortcake Skewers are a fresh, light, and totally fun dessert that guests of all ages will love.
They’re colorful, easy to grab between conversations, and they bring a classic summer flavor without needing forks or plates!
Key Lime Pie Bars
Bright, tart, and creamy, Key Lime Pie Bars bring all the tropical vibes of a traditional key lime pie but in an easier-to-share form.
Their zesty flavor and buttery crust make them a refreshing pick for hot days when you want something that cuts through the summer heat.
- Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Bake crust for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes until set.
- Chill completely before slicing into bars.
Key Lime Pie Bars are a slice of pure summer.
Their creamy, citrusy bite is both refreshing and indulgent, making them a bright addition to any potluck dessert table—and they’re just as easy to make ahead!
Watermelon Sorbet
When the summer sun is blazing, nothing beats the refreshing chill of sorbet.
This Watermelon Sorbet is a simple, naturally sweet treat that tastes like a scoop of pure summer. It’s also dairy-free and vegan-friendly, making it a perfect option for guests with dietary restrictions.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed, seedless watermelon
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of watermelon)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Instructions:
- Freeze the watermelon cubes for at least 4 hours until solid.
- In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the frozen watermelon, sugar (if using), and lime juice.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
- Transfer the mixture to a container and freeze for another hour for a firmer texture, or serve immediately for a soft-serve style sorbet.
Watermelon Sorbet is a cool, vibrant, and ridiculously easy dessert that screams summer.
It’s perfect for a potluck where you want to offer a lighter, healthier option—and it’s so refreshing, everyone will be back for seconds.
Coconut Lime Cheesecake Bars
These Coconut Lime Cheesecake Bars offer a tropical twist on a classic dessert.
The rich, creamy cheesecake base is brightened with the zing of lime and enhanced with the nutty flavor of coconut, making it a perfect treat to share at any summer gathering.
- Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for topping)
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and eggs. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until set and lightly golden at the edges.
- Let cool, then chill for at least 2 hours.
- Top with shredded coconut before serving.
These Coconut Lime Cheesecake Bars combine the best of both worlds—rich, creamy cheesecake and tropical flavors of coconut and lime.
They are refreshing and luxurious all at once, and they hold up well for transport, making them perfect for your next potluck.
Mango Sorbet Popsicles
Mango Sorbet Popsicles are an easy and delicious way to cool off on a hot summer day.
The tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes is made into a smooth, refreshing popsicle that will be the highlight of your summer potluck. They’re naturally sweet, light, and packed with flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 3 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Instructions:
- In a blender, combine mangoes, coconut water, honey (if using), and lime juice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Insert sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
- To release the popsicles, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds.
These Mango Sorbet Popsicles are a burst of tropical flavor in every bite.
They’re easy to make ahead, and they’re the perfect way to cool down on a hot day while adding a touch of sweetness to your potluck spread.
S’mores Cupcakes
S’mores Cupcakes combine the best parts of a campfire treat with the indulgence of a cupcake.
With a graham cracker crust, chocolate cupcake base, and marshmallow frosting, these little delights are a summer classic in cupcake form, perfect for a backyard potluck or picnic.
- Ingredients:
- 1 box of chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cupcake batter)
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows (for topping)
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
- In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press a spoonful of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner to form a crust.
- Prepare the chocolate cupcakes according to the package directions or your homemade recipe.
- Pour the batter over the graham cracker crusts and bake as directed.
- Once cupcakes are baked and cooled, top with chocolate chips, then place mini marshmallows on top.
- For a toasted effect, use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows or broil them briefly in the oven until golden brown.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
S’mores Cupcakes bring the nostalgia of campfire treats into an easy-to-serve, portable dessert.
They’re sweet, gooey, and totally indulgent—ideal for impressing guests at a summer potluck while keeping things fun and familiar.
Pineapple Coconut Cake
Pineapple Coconut Cake is a tropical paradise in every bite. Moist, sweet, and lightly tangy from the pineapple, it’s perfect for summer gatherings.
The coconut adds a nutty richness, while the cream cheese frosting brings everything together beautifully. This cake is a crowd favorite and a must-have at any summer potluck.
- Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade cake batter)
- 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (for topping)
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, mix together cake mix, pineapple, coconut, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Frost the cooled cakes with cream cheese frosting and top with shredded coconut.
This Pineapple Coconut Cake is a refreshing, tropical dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
It’s light yet rich, making it the perfect balance for any potluck spread.
Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bites
These Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bites combine the sweet-tartness of blueberries with the creamy richness of cheesecake in one perfect, bite-sized treat.
They are the ideal dessert for summer potlucks because they’re easy to eat with your hands and bursting with fresh, seasonal flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press about a teaspoon of the mixture into the bottom of each muffin cup.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the graham crust, filling each cup nearly to the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Top each cheesecake bite with fresh blueberries just before serving.
Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake Bites are a perfect summer dessert: fresh, creamy, and packed with the bright flavors of the season.
These little bites are easy to share and ideal for enjoying outdoors at a summer gathering.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownie Bites
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownie Bites combine the richness of fudgy brownies with the refreshing sweetness of chocolate-dipped strawberries.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for summer because they’re indulgent but still light enough to be enjoyed after a big meal at a potluck.
- Ingredients:
- 1 box of brownie mix (or homemade brownie batter)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 12 fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for melting chocolate)
- Optional: Whipped cream or mint leaves for garnish
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions.
- Spoon brownie batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the brownies cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the brownies cool, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.
- Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off, and place them on parchment paper to set.
- Once the brownies are cool, top each one with a chocolate-covered strawberry.
- Optional: Garnish with whipped cream or mint leaves.
These Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Brownie Bites are the perfect balance of rich and fruity, indulgent and refreshing.
They’re easy to serve and share and always a crowd favorite at summer potlucks.
Peaches and Cream Parfaits
Peaches and Cream Parfaits are a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert that layers juicy, ripe peaches with creamy mascarpone or whipped cream.
It’s light, flavorful, and looks beautiful in individual cups, making it a perfect dessert for summer potlucks or picnics.
- Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese (or whipped cream)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (if using whipped cream)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granola (optional, for crunch)
- Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the diced peaches with honey. Let sit for about 10 minutes to macerate and release their juices.
- In a separate bowl, whip together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream (if using), powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In serving glasses or jars, layer the whipped cream mixture, followed by the macerated peaches, and top with granola for some crunch.
- Repeat the layers and finish with a final dollop of whipped cream and a few more peaches on top.
These Peaches and Cream Parfaits are a bright and creamy dessert that will feel like summer in every bite.
The natural sweetness of peaches paired with the smoothness of mascarpone or whipped cream makes for an irresistible combination that everyone will enjoy.
Frozen Yogurt Bark with Mixed Berries
Frozen Yogurt Bark with Mixed Berries is an easy, healthy, and super refreshing dessert that’s perfect for a summer potluck.
It’s customizable, so you can add your favorite fruits and toppings, and it’s easy to make ahead, making it ideal for busy summer days.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (or flavored yogurt of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1/4 cup granola or nuts (optional)
- Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread the yogurt mixture evenly over the parchment paper into a thin, even layer.
- Sprinkle the mixed berries and granola or nuts evenly over the yogurt.
- Freeze the bark for 3–4 hours, or until fully set.
- Once frozen, break the bark into pieces and serve.
This Frozen Yogurt Bark is a fun and healthy way to enjoy summer fruits in a cool, frozen treat.
It’s sweet, tangy, and crunchy all at once, and the colorful berries make it look as good as it tastes!
Chocolate Mint Cheesecake Cups
Chocolate Mint Cheesecake Cups are a decadent yet refreshing dessert with layers of rich chocolate cheesecake filling and a refreshing mint topping.
Perfect for a potluck, these individual servings ensure that guests can enjoy a bite-sized indulgence without the mess.
- Ingredients:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup chocolate wafer crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate wafer crumbs with melted butter and press them into the bottom of individual serving cups to form a crust.
- In another bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and sour cream until smooth.
- Fold in the melted chocolate and mint extract until well combined.
- Gently fold in whipped cream to add lightness to the filling.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crust in each cup and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
These Chocolate Mint Cheesecake Cups are rich and creamy, with the perfect balance of chocolate and mint.
Their individual portions make them easy to serve, and the refreshing mint flavor is an excellent way to finish off a summer meal.
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Jars
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Jars are a refreshing, tangy, and creamy dessert that comes in a portable, individual serving size.
The combination of zesty lemon, fresh blueberries, and creamy cheesecake filling makes this dessert perfect for a summer potluck. Plus, it’s no-bake, making it a breeze to prepare.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Instructions:
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter together, then press the mixture into the bottom of small mason jars or cups to form a crust.
- In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and beat until fluffy and well-combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake filling over the crust in each jar.
- Top with fresh blueberries and drizzle with honey, if desired.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
These Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Jars are a perfect balance of tangy lemon, creamy cheesecake, and sweet blueberries.
The individual servings make them ideal for sharing at a potluck, and the jars keep everything neat and easy to enjoy.
No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bites
These No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bites are the ultimate indulgence for Nutella lovers.
With a creamy, Nutella-infused cheesecake filling and a chocolatey cookie crust, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick and easy summer dessert that requires no baking.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup chocolate wafer crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Nutella
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate wafer crumbs and melted butter to form a crust. Press the mixture into the bottoms of mini muffin tins or silicone molds.
- In another bowl, beat together cream cheese, Nutella, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spoon or pipe the Nutella cheesecake mixture into the prepared crusts.
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top, if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set before serving.
These No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bites are rich and indulgent, with a smooth Nutella cheesecake filling that pairs perfectly with the chocolate crust.
They’re small enough to be enjoyed in a couple of bites, making them an easy and decadent option for potlucks.
Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet
Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet is the ultimate refreshing treat for hot summer days. It’s tangy, sweet, and bursting with the bright flavors of fresh strawberries and lemons.
This sorbet is dairy-free, making it a perfect option for guests with dietary restrictions, and it’s incredibly easy to make!
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
- 1 cup water
- Instructions:
- In a blender, combine strawberries, lemon juice, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or ice cube tray and freeze for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally to break up ice crystals.
- Once frozen, scrape the mixture with a fork to create a fluffy, sorbet-like texture.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer for later.
Strawberry Lemonade Sorbet is both tart and sweet, with the perfect refreshing balance of strawberry and lemon flavors.
It’s a wonderful option for a light, cool dessert that will be a hit at any summer gathering.
Raspberry Coconut Macaroons
Raspberry Coconut Macaroons are a delightful and easy-to-make treat with a chewy coconut base and a sweet burst of raspberries.
These cookies are naturally gluten-free and are perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions. Their tropical flavor makes them an ideal addition to a summer potluck spread.
- Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
- 2/3 cup egg whites (about 4 large eggs)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy, then add the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Fold in the shredded coconut until evenly mixed.
- Gently fold in the chopped raspberries.
- Using a spoon, scoop the mixture into small mounds on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before drizzling with melted white chocolate (if using).
These Raspberry Coconut Macaroons are a fun and refreshing treat that will be a crowd-pleaser at your potluck.
The combination of coconut and raspberry is both tropical and indulgent, while the white chocolate drizzle adds a touch of sweetness.
Watermelon Feta Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
While this might not be a traditional dessert, Watermelon Feta Salad with Honey Lime Dressing offers a light, refreshing option to finish off a summer meal.
The sweetness of the watermelon, combined with the saltiness of feta, creates a perfect balance that is both satisfying and healthy.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed watermelon
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta, and chopped mint leaves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
This Watermelon Feta Salad is a refreshing and unexpected dessert option that combines savory and sweet flavors.
It’s light, hydrating, and perfect for summer potlucks, offering a savory contrast to the sweeter desserts.
Chocolate-Covered Banana Bites
Chocolate-Covered Banana Bites are an easy-to-make and fun dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with rich chocolate.
They’re perfect for a summer potluck because they are bite-sized and portable, and you can easily customize them with different types of chocolate and toppings.
- Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts or almonds (optional, for topping)
- Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
- Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the bananas into 1/2-inch rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each banana slice into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated, and place it back on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or almonds, or a pinch of sea salt, if desired.
- Freeze the chocolate-covered bananas for at least 1 hour until the chocolate is set.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.
These Chocolate-Covered Banana Bites are a sweet, healthy treat that’s perfect for summer.
They’re easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them an ideal addition to your potluck dessert spread.
Tropical Fruit Salad with Lime and Honey
This Tropical Fruit Salad with Lime and Honey is a refreshing, vibrant dessert that’s packed with the natural sweetness of tropical fruits.
It’s a quick, no-cook option that’s perfect for summer potlucks, and the lime and honey dressing adds a bright and zesty flavor that complements the fruit perfectly.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups cubed pineapple
- 1 cup diced mango
- 1 cup diced papaya
- 1 cup diced kiwi
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the pineapple, mango, papaya, kiwi, and strawberries.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and lime juice until smooth.
- Drizzle the lime-honey dressing over the fruit and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
This Tropical Fruit Salad is the ultimate refreshing treat for a summer gathering.
The sweet and tangy combination of fruits paired with the honey-lime dressing is light and satisfying, making it the perfect dessert for a warm day.
S’mores Ice Cream Cake
S’mores Ice Cream Cake is the perfect dessert for a summer potluck, combining the flavors of classic s’mores with the coolness of ice cream.
Layers of graham cracker crust, chocolate ice cream, and toasted marshmallows make this dessert both nostalgic and indulgent.
- Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 4 cups chocolate ice cream, softened
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips, melted
- Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Freeze for 15 minutes to set.
- Spread the softened chocolate ice cream over the crust and freeze for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Toast the mini marshmallows by broiling them in the oven or using a kitchen torch until golden brown.
- Once the ice cream is firm, top with the toasted marshmallows and drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Freeze the cake for at least 3 hours before slicing and serving.
This S’mores Ice Cream Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that combines everything we love about s’mores in a cool, creamy, and decadent form.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a summer potluck.
Key Lime Pie Bars
Key Lime Pie Bars are a tangy and creamy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust and a zesty lime filling.
These bars are portable, easy to serve, and offer all the flavors of a classic key lime pie in a convenient, bite-sized form.
- Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 2 large egg yolks
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks until smooth.
- Pour the lime mixture over the cooled crust and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let the bars cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
- Top with whipped cream just before serving, if desired.
These Key Lime Pie Bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a creamy filling and a buttery crust.
They’re portable and easy to serve at a summer potluck, making them a great choice for your next gathering.
