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25 Summer Treats That Will Make You Forget Your Stress

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Summer is the perfect time to enjoy refreshing and satisfying treats that help you unwind and escape from the everyday grind. These 25 summer desserts are designed to bring a little joy and relaxation to your day, with flavors that capture the essence of the season. Whether you’re cooling off or indulging in a sweet moment, these treats offer a simple pleasure that’s sure to brighten your mood. Forget your bills for a while and treat yourself to these delicious summer delights.

Two servings of strawberry shortcake on a blue background.
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Mini Apple Pies

Mini Apple Pies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Mini apple pies pack the comforting flavors of a classic apple pie into bite-sized treats, perfect for a sweet summer escape. Ready in just 30 minutes, these pies combine apples and dates with warm spices for a cozy, satisfying snack. Each bite offers a moment of bliss. Enjoy these mini pies and let the day’s worries melt away with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pies

Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Creme

Three blackberry pots de creme lined up on a wooden board next to silver spoons.
Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Creme. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry white chocolate pots de creme are a decadent escape in a cup, combining creamy white chocolate custard with a tart blackberry sauce. In just an hour, you can create this luxurious treat that feels like a mini-vacation from reality. The rich and smooth flavors are enough to make any worries fade away. Indulge in these pots de creme and let the sweetness take over.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry White Chocolate Pots de Creme

Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

A stack of three lemon bars on a plate with more lemon bars in the background.
Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Easy lemon bars are a refreshing burst of citrus with a buttery shortbread crust, perfect for a summer pick-me-up. In about 40 minutes, you can create these tangy-sweet treats that are sure to brighten any day. The zesty lemon filling is both satisfying and uplifting. Take a bite and let the zingy flavor take your mind off the day’s stresses.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust

Blueberry Ice Cream

An overhead shot of homemade blueberry ice cream in a metal loaf pan next to waffle bowls, spoons, and a cream colored napkin.
Blueberry Ice Cream. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blueberry ice cream is a simple, egg-free dessert that captures the essence of summer in every scoop. Made with fresh blueberries, whole milk, and cream, this treat takes just 30 minutes to prepare before freezing. The burst of fruity flavor is like a cool breeze on a hot day. Let this ice cream be your sweet, stress-free escape from the everyday grind.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Ice Cream

Apple Cinnamon Rolls

A pan of freshly baked and frosted apple cinnamon rolls on a dark blue background.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Apple cinnamon rolls bring the comfort of fall into summer, combining fresh apples with warm cinnamon and creamy frosting. In just about an hour, you can escape into the sweetness of this indulgent treat. The rich, spiced flavors are a perfect way to forget about those looming bills. Let these rolls turn any day into a moment of pure, cozy bliss.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Rolls

Butterscotch Peach Crisp with Fresh Peaches

Butterscotch Peach Crisp with Fresh Peaches. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Butterscotch peach crisp offers a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for winding down a summer day. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy the juicy peaches and crispy oatmeal topping that make this dessert irresistible. The subtle vanilla and oak notes add depth to each bite. Forget your financial worries for a while and savor the simple pleasures of this crisp.
Get the Recipe: Butterscotch Peach Crisp with Fresh Peaches

Slow Cooker Bourbon Apple Butter

Slow Cooker Bourbon Apple Butter. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Slow cooker bourbon apple butter slowly simmers apples, bourbon, and spices into a thick, rich spread that’s perfect for toast or pastries. This recipe takes several hours to cook, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully. The result is a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to beat. Spread some on and let the smooth, buttery flavor help you forget about everything else.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Bourbon Apple Butter

Strawberry Crème Brûlée

Close up of strawberry crème brûlée next to a glass of champagne.
Strawberry Crème Brûlée. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Strawberry crème brûlée is a decadent dessert that layers sweet strawberry jam with creamy custard, topped with a caramelized sugar crust. This dessert takes about an hour to prepare and delivers a rich, indulgent flavor. The smooth custard and crunchy topping are a perfect combination. Treat yourself to this luxurious dessert and let it be a sweet break from reality.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Crème Brûlée

Small Batch Blueberry Jam

Small batch blueberry jam featured in the middle of the table with biscuits, coffee, and serving plates.
Small Batch Blueberry Jam. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Small batch blueberry jam is a concentrated burst of summer, packed with fresh blueberries and a hint of cardamom. This jam takes about 30 minutes to make and requires no added pectin, letting the natural flavors shine. The sweet-tart taste is a delightful addition to any snack. Spread some on toast and let the rich flavor whisk you away from your daily concerns.
Get the Recipe: Small Batch Blueberry Jam

Peach Crumble Bars

A stack of three peach crumble bars on a black plate.
Peach Crumble Bars. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Peach crumble bars are the ultimate summer dessert, with juicy peaches nestled between layers of buttery shortbread crust. These bars take about 45 minutes to make and are as easy to prepare as they are to enjoy. The sweet peach filling and crumbly topping offer a delightful escape from the mundane. Grab a bar and let the flavors transport you to a worry-free moment.
Get the Recipe: Peach Crumble Bars

Meyer Lemon Curd

Meyer Lemon Curd. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Meyer lemon curd is a rich, tart spread that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite summer treats. This curd takes about 20 minutes to prepare and offers a thick, luscious texture that’s ideal for spreading on scones or using in desserts. The sweet-tart lemon flavor is a simple pleasure. Spread some on and let your troubles fade into the background.
Get the Recipe: Meyer Lemon Curd

Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes

Pineapple Ice Cream Cake on a white plate next to a pool of sauce.
Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pineapple ice cream cakes are bite-sized delights featuring graham cracker crusts, pineapple curd, and a touch of rum caramel sauce. Ready in about an hour, these cakes are the perfect way to treat yourself to a taste of the tropics. The combination of sweet pineapple and rich caramel is a mini escape in every bite. Forget your bills and savor these indulgent treats.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Ice Cream Cakes

Dipped Ice Cream Cones with Homemade Magic Shell

Overhead shot of 6 cones, two in chocolate, two peanut butter, two vanilla.
Dipped Ice Cream Cones with Homemade Magic Shell. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Dipped ice cream cones with homemade magic shell are the perfect way to beat the summer heat and your worries. With just minutes of prep, you can enjoy creamy ice cream coated in a crunchy, homemade shell. The combination of smooth ice cream and crispy coating is pure joy. Forget your bills for a bit and treat yourself to this easy, fun dessert.
Get the Recipe: Dipped Ice Cream Cones with Homemade Magic Shell

Spiked Lemonade Popsicles

Spiked lemonade popsicles on a marble background next to lemons.
Spiked Lemonade Popsicles. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spiked lemonade popsicles are a tangy, refreshing treat that adds a grown-up twist to a summer favorite. These popsicles take just 10 minutes to prepare before freezing, making them an easy way to unwind on a hot day. The tart lemon flavor with a splash of alcohol offers a satisfying escape. Relax with one of these and let your worries melt away.
Get the Recipe: Spiked Lemonade Popsicles

Citrus Dream Tart

A plate with Citrus Dream Tart next to slices of grapefruit and blood orange.
Citrus Dream Tart. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Citrus Dream Tart is a refreshing escape, layering a buttery shortbread crust with tangy grapefruit and blood orange curd, topped with toasted meringue. Ready in about an hour, this tart is a vibrant burst of summer flavors that will lift your spirits. The bright citrus notes are a perfect antidote to a stressful day. Take a slice, and let your taste buds take a vacation.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Dream Tart

Bourbon Caramel Popcorn

Bourbon Caramel Popcorn. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Bourbon caramel popcorn is a crunchy, boozy snack that’s perfect for when you need a break from it all. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent treat that’s great for movie nights or any time you need a pick-me-up. The rich bourbon caramel sauce adds a layer of sophistication. Munch away and let your thoughts drift far from those bills.
Get the Recipe: Bourbon Caramel Popcorn

Blackberry Crumble Pie

Overhead shot of blackberry crumble pie with one slice on a serving plate.
Blackberry Crumble Pie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry crumble pie blends juicy blackberries with a buttery crust and spiced crumb topping, creating a dessert that’s rich and satisfying. Ready in about an hour, this pie is the perfect excuse to take a break from life’s stresses. The sweet and tart flavors will transport you to simpler, carefree days. Enjoy a slice, and let your worries disappear with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crumble Pie

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream

Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Key lime pie brings together a tangy lime filling, sweet graham cracker crust, and coconut whipped cream for a refreshing summer treat. In just 30 minutes, you can make this dessert that’s as bright and zesty as a sunny day. The tropical flavors will have you feeling far from your everyday concerns. Dive into a slice and let your worries melt away.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream

Ice Cream Sandwiches with Chocolate Drizzle

Ice cream sandwiches with chocolate drizzle.
Ice Cream Sandwiches with Chocolate Drizzle. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Ice cream sandwiches with chocolate drizzle are the ultimate treat for cooling off and unwinding on a hot summer day. These sandwiches take about 20 minutes to prepare and feature creamy ice cream between soft shortbread cookies, finished with a rich chocolate sauce. The combination is pure indulgence. Enjoy one and let the world melt away as you savor every bite.
Get the Recipe: Ice Cream Sandwiches with Chocolate Drizzle

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Strawberry rhubarb crisp is a delicious blend of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb, topped with a buttery, crumbly layer that bakes to perfection. This dessert takes about 45 minutes to prepare and offers a comforting, homey flavor that’s perfect for summer evenings. The balance of sweet and tart in every bite is sure to bring a smile. Set aside your worries and enjoy a warm serving of this crisp—it’s a taste of simple pleasures.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Blackberry Lime Sorbet

Horizontal image of blackberry lime sorbet in a metal loaf pan on a marble background garnished with frozen blackberries and limes.
Blackberry Lime Sorbet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry lime sorbet is a refreshing treat that combines the sweetness of blackberries with the tang of lime. In about 20 minutes of prep, you can have this smooth, creamy sorbet ready to freeze. The vibrant flavors are a perfect way to cool down and take a break from life’s stresses. Scoop some into a bowl and let the taste of summer wash over you.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Lime Sorbet

Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers

Overhead shot of a blackberry lime tart on a white plate surrounded by edible flowers.
Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Blackberry lime tart is a summer showstopper, featuring a crumbly shortbread base, tangy lime curd, and sweet blackberry coulis. This elegant dessert takes about 45 minutes to prepare and is as refreshing as a summer breeze. The vibrant flavors will make you forget all about your bills. Indulge in this tart and let it bring a touch of luxury to your day.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Lime Tart with Edible Flowers

Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles

Two pina colada popsicles on a wooden background.
Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles combine creamy coconut milk, sweet pineapple, and a splash of white wine for a tropical twist on a summer classic. These popsicles take just 10 minutes to prepare before freezing and are perfect for cooling off after a long day. The tropical flavors will have you dreaming of sandy beaches. Treat yourself to one and let your worries drift away.
Get the Recipe: Pina Colada Sangria Popsicles

Strawberry Mojito Wine Popsicles

Strawberry mojito wine popsicles on a white plate with strawberries lime and mint leaves.
Strawberry Mojito Wine Popsicles. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Strawberry mojito wine popsicles mix sweet strawberries, fresh mint, and a splash of white wine for a cool, refreshing treat. These popsicles take about 10 minutes to prepare before freezing and are the perfect way to beat the summer heat. The fruity, minty flavors will transport you to a more carefree time. Enjoy one of these and let your worries fade away.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mojito Wine Popsicles

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Two servings of strawberry shortcake on a blue background.
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Homemade strawberry shortcake transforms the classic dessert into a luxurious treat with brown sugar cardamom biscuits, lime-macerated strawberries, and vanilla whipped cream. This summer delight takes about an hour to prepare and offers a sweet escape from the ordinary. The fresh, vibrant flavors are like a mini vacation in every bite. Forget your worries as you enjoy this elegant twist on a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

About Renee N Gardner

I'm the recipe developer, food photographer, and mastermind behind Renee Nicole's Kitchen, where I help create kitchen confidence to inspire home cooks to become home chefs. No fancy fads here, just high-quality, homemade recipes featuring seasonal ingredients.

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