75 Best Desserts to Bring to a BBQ: Sweet Treats for Summer Fun

Summer is the season for long, sunny days spent grilling with friends and family. And no BBQ is complete without a delicious spread of desserts to end the celebration on a sweet note. Whether you’re looking for a classic crowd-pleaser or something unique and adventurous, this comprehensive guide has you covered with 75 of the best BBQ desserts to impress your guests.

Classic BBQ Desserts: Timeless Favorites

The best BBQ desserts are often the simplest and most familiar. These classics are always a hit and can be enjoyed by everyone.

1. Brownies: These fudgy squares are a timeless favorite for good reason. You can find endless variations, from classic fudgy brownies to decadent brownie sundaes.

2. Cookies: From chocolate chip to peanut butter to oatmeal raisin, cookies are a versatile option that can be enjoyed by all ages.

3. Apple Pie: This iconic dessert is perfect for a summer evening. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

4. Peach Cobbler: This Southern classic is a delicious and comforting dessert perfect for the warm summer months.

5. Ice Cream: A quintessential summer treat, ice cream is a refreshing and versatile dessert that can be served on its own or as a topping for other desserts.

6. Fruit Salad: A healthy and refreshing option, fruit salad is a delicious way to end a BBQ with a burst of flavor.

7. Chocolate Chip Scones: These soft and crumbly scones are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.

8. Banana Pudding: This creamy and decadent dessert is perfect for a summer BBQ.

9. Chocolate Cake: A decadent and rich dessert, chocolate cake is always a crowd-pleaser.

10. Cheesecake: This creamy and tangy dessert is a perfect ending to any meal.

Easy BBQ Desserts: Quick & Simple Treats

Sometimes, you don’t have time for elaborate baking projects. These easy BBQ desserts are quick to assemble and require minimal effort.

1. Fruit Skewers: Simple and refreshing, fruit skewers are a perfect way to add some color and sweetness to your BBQ.

2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent treats are easy to assemble and a surefire hit with guests.

3. Watermelon Cubes: This refreshing fruit is a perfect summer dessert, especially when served chilled.

4. Angel Food Cake with Whipped Cream and Berries: Light and fluffy, angel food cake is a perfect BBQ dessert, especially when paired with whipped cream and fresh berries.

5. Rice Krispies Treats: These easy-to-make treats are always a crowd-pleaser.

6. No-Bake Cheesecake: This delicious dessert requires no baking, making it perfect for busy summer days.

7. Frozen Yogurt Bars: These refreshing treats are perfect for a hot summer day.

8. Fruit Pizza: A fun and festive dessert, fruit pizza is a perfect way to end a BBQ.

9. Chocolate Pudding: This quick and easy dessert is perfect for a last-minute treat.

10. Jell-O A light and refreshing dessert, Jell-O is perfect for a summer BBQ.

Unique BBQ Desserts: Impress Your Guests

Want to go beyond the traditional BBQ desserts? These unique and creative options are sure to impress your guests.

1. S’mores Dip: This indulgent and easy-to-make dip is perfect for a summer gathering.

2. Churros with Chocolate Sauce: These crispy, fried pastries are a delicious and unique dessert option.

3. Key Lime Pie: This tart and tangy dessert is a perfect summer treat.

4. Coconut Cream Pie: This tropical dessert is perfect for a summer BBQ.

5. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: This unique and flavorful cake is perfect for a summer gathering.

6. Ice Cream Sandwiches: These nostalgic treats are great for a BBQ party.

7. Brown Butter Blondies: These rich and buttery blondies are a decadent treat.

8. Berry Crumble: This comforting dessert is perfect for a summer evening.

9. Lemon Bars: Tangy and refreshing, lemon bars are a perfect summer treat.

10. Banana Bread: This classic treat is perfect for a relaxed BBQ get-together.

BBQ Desserts for the Health-Conscious

Even if you’re watching your sugar intake, there are plenty of healthy and delicious BBQ desserts to choose from.

1. Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip: This light and refreshing dessert is perfect for a summer BBQ.

2. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy and delicious pudding is perfect for a summer gathering.

3. Frozen Banana Bites: These sweet and refreshing treats are perfect for a hot summer day.

4. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: This decadent and healthy dessert is perfect for a summer gathering.

5. Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: This refreshing and flavorful dessert is perfect for a summer BBQ.

6. Coconut Rice Pudding: This healthy and delicious dessert is perfect for a summer gathering.

7. Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Nuts: A healthy and delicious dessert, baked apples are perfect for a summer BBQ.

8. Berry Trifles: This layered dessert is a light and refreshing option.

9. Fruit Popsicles: These easy and refreshing treats are perfect for a hot summer day.

10. Granola Bars: These quick and easy snacks are a healthy and satisfying option.

BBQ Desserts for Kids

No BBQ is complete without some fun and exciting desserts for kids.

1. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites: These fun and easy treats are sure to be a hit with kids.

2. Rice Krispies Treats with Sprinkles: These colorful treats are always a crowd-pleaser.

3. Funfetti Cupcakes: These colorful cupcakes are perfect for a birthday party or a special occasion.

4. Ice Cream Sundaes: A fun and customizable treat, ice cream sundaes are a perfect way to end a BBQ.

5. Cake Pops: These bite-sized treats are perfect for a summer gathering.

6. Fruit Leather Rolls: These chewy and fruity snacks are a healthy option for kids.

7. Fruit Pops: These refreshing popsicles are perfect for a hot summer day.

8. Miniature Brownies: These bite-sized treats are perfect for a summer gathering.

9. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches: A classic and easy-to-make treat, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are always a hit with kids.

10. Yogurt Parfaits with Granola and Fruit: These healthy and delicious parfaits are perfect for a summer BBQ.

BBQ Dessert Ideas for a Crowd

If you’re hosting a large BBQ, you’ll need to make sure you have enough dessert to go around. These recipes are all easy to scale up and are sure to please a crowd.

1. Giant Cookie Sheet Brownies: This massive brownie recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at your BBQ.

2. Peach Cobbler in a Dutch Oven: This rustic and flavorful recipe is perfect for a large gathering.

3. Fruit Pizza: A fun and festive dessert, fruit pizza is perfect for a large crowd.

4. Ice Cream Bar: Set up an ice cream bar with a variety of toppings for guests to create their own sundaes.

5. Cake Pops: These bite-sized treats are perfect for a large crowd.

6. Brownie Bites: These bite-sized brownies are perfect for a summer gathering.

7. Miniature Cheesecakes: These bite-sized cheesecakes are perfect for a summer gathering.

8. Fruit Salad: A healthy and refreshing option, fruit salad is a delicious way to end a BBQ with a burst of flavor.

9. Layered Dessert: This dessert features layers of cake, pudding, and whipped cream, making it a perfect way to feed a large crowd.

10. Pie Bar: Set up a pie bar with a variety of pies for guests to choose from.

BBQ Dessert FAQs: Answers to Common Questions

1. What are some good BBQ desserts that are not too sweet?

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s not too sweet, consider fruit-based options like fruit skewers, fruit salad, or a berry crumble. These desserts are naturally sweet and refreshing, and they won’t leave you feeling weighed down.

2. What are some BBQ desserts that I can make ahead of time?

Many BBQ desserts can be made ahead of time, which is great for busy hosts. Consider making a peach cobbler, a fruit salad, or a cheesecake the day before your BBQ. You can also make brownie bites, cake pops, or miniature cheesecakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them.

3. What are some good BBQ desserts for a summer cookout?

For a summer cookout, you’ll want to choose desserts that are light, refreshing, and easy to serve. Some good options include fruit skewers, ice cream sandwiches, popsicles, and fruit salad.

4. What are some good BBQ desserts for a potluck?

If you’re bringing a dessert to a potluck, consider something that’s easy to transport and serve. Some good options include brownies, cookies, cupcakes, or fruit salad.

5. What are some good BBQ desserts that are gluten-free?

There are plenty of gluten-free BBQ desserts to choose from. Consider making a fruit salad, a fruit crumble, or a cheesecake with a gluten-free crust. You can also find gluten-free brownie mixes, cookie mixes, and cake mixes at most grocery stores.

Conclusion: Sweeten Up Your BBQ With These Delicious Desserts

From classic favorites to unique and creative treats, there’s a delicious BBQ dessert for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a casual get-together, these sweet treats will add the perfect finishing touch to your summer celebration. Remember to choose desserts that are easy to serve, transport, and enjoy, and most importantly, have fun with it!

Call to Action: What’s your go-to BBQ dessert? Share your favorite recipes in the comments below!