As the mercury rises and summer temperatures soar, there’s nothing quite like a cool and creamy treat to beat the heat. Whether you’re looking for a classic ice cream recipe or something a little more adventurous, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 refreshing cold desserts perfect for sizzling summer days. From fruity popsicles and creamy puddings to decadent cheesecakes and icy sorbets, these sweet treats are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide the ultimate respite from the sun. So go ahead, indulge in a little bit of cool comfort food, and let the sweet memories begin!
Classic Vanilla Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this timeless classic: a rich, creamy vanilla ice cream that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the pure vanilla extract and whisk to combine.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once the ice cream has finished churning, transfer it to an airtight container and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
6. Place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including chilling time)
Strawberry Cheesecake Mousse
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the richness of cheesecake, all in a light and airy mousse. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
– 1/4 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the strawberry jam and mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
5. Stir in the sliced strawberries and vanilla extract.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert!
Lemon Sorbet
Brighten up your day with this refreshing Lemon Sorbet, perfect for warm weather or any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the lemon juice, sugar, and 1 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until fully dissolved.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop into bowls and garnish with lemon zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: About 2 quarts sorbet
Mango Coconut Popsicles
Beat the heat with these creamy and sweet Mango Coconut Popsicles! Made with ripe mangoes, coconut milk, and a touch of honey, these popsicles are perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, coconut milk, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top for expansion.
3. Insert popsicle sticks and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. To unmold, run the popsicles under warm water and gently pull out of mold.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (depending on freezer temperature)
Chocolate Pudding with Whipped Cream
Treat your taste buds to a decadent dessert featuring velvety chocolate pudding topped with fluffy whipped cream. This classic recipe is perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 ounces high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in melted chocolate until smooth.
3. Let cool slightly, then whisk in vanilla extract.
4. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: 15 minutes; refrigeration time: 2+ hours)
Raspberry Swirl Frozen Yogurt
Elevate your frozen yogurt game with this sweet and tangy recipe featuring a swirl of raspberry goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts plain frozen yogurt
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the pureed raspberries and honey until well combined.
2. In a separate container, scoop out the frozen yogurt into small balls.
3. Place a spoonful of the raspberry mixture onto each ball of frozen yogurt, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll the frozen yogurt balls in your hands to create a smooth surface, ensuring the raspberry swirl is evenly distributed.
5. Place the rolled frozen yogurt on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place in the freezer for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Tiramisu Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy, dreamy Tiramisu Parfait! Layers of ladyfingers soaked in coffee and liqueur, mixed with mascarpone cream, and topped with cocoa powder create a show-stopping treat.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons rum or other liqueur (optional)
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coffee and liqueur (if using). Dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
2. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese with whipped cream until smooth.
3. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a parfait glass or tall clear cup. Top with a layer of mascarpone mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 two more times, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
5. Dust with additional cocoa powder, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This parfait is best served chilled, but can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Peach Melba Sundae
A classic dessert that combines sweet peaches, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, the Peach Melba Sundae is a simple yet impressive treat to serve at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1 pint of vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce
– Whipped cream and chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a sundae glass or a tall clear cup.
2. Top the ice cream with diced peaches.
3. In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Spoon the whipped cream over the peaches.
5. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the whipped cream.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time only)
Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and refreshing matcha green tea ice cream recipe. With its vibrant green color and subtle bitterness, this Japanese-inspired treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the matcha powder and whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is made in an ice cream maker.
Blueberry Gelato
Capture the sweet essence of summer with this refreshing blueberry gelato recipe. A simple and creamy dessert perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Once cooled, blend in blueberries and salt. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes (heating the mixture) + churning time (depending on ice cream maker)
Pistachio Semifreddo
Elevate your dessert game with this classic Italian treat, featuring the nutty flavor of pistachios and the lightness of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened butter and chopped pistachios.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the butter-pistachio mixture until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
5. Gently fold the egg whites into the cream mixture until smooth.
6. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (whipping time)
Tips:
– Chill the semifreddo in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
– Serve chilled, garnished with additional chopped pistachios if desired.
Key Lime Pie Icebox Cake
This classic dessert combines the brightness of key lime with the ease of an icebox cake, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 16 ounces whipped cream
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together crumbs and sugar. Add butter and stir until combined.
2. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whip whipped cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Spread whipped cream mixture over crust.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: None (icebox cake)
Blackberry Sorbet
A refreshing summer treat, this blackberry sorbet is a perfect way to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh blackberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blackberries with water, then puree them in a blender or food processor until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberry puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: None (freezing time: 2 hours or overnight)
Chocolate-Dipped Banana Bites
Transform ripe bananas into a decadent dessert by coating them in rich chocolate and nuts. Perfect for a quick snack or as a special treat for the kids.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (or your preferred nut)
– Optional: sprinkles, shredded coconut, or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut each banana into 1-inch pieces.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Dip each banana piece into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the way.
4. Immediately sprinkle chopped walnuts over the chocolate-covered bananas.
5. Place the dipped bananas on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack to set.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Let the banana bites chill and enjoy within an hour of making.
Passion Fruit Panna Cotta
This Italian dessert gets a tropical twist with the addition of sweet and tangy passion fruit puree, creating a refreshing and creamy treat perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup passion fruit puree (homemade or store-bought)
– Unflavored gelatin, dissolved in 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and passion fruit puree.
3. Add the dissolved gelatin mixture and whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None
Cookies and Cream Milkshake
Get ready to treat yourself with this rich and creamy milkshake recipe that combines the classic flavors of cookies and cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the ice cream, heavy cream, and milk. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter, crushed cookies, and vanilla extract to the blender. Blend until well combined and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Avocado Lime Ice Cream
This refreshing ice cream recipe combines the creamy richness of avocados with the zesty brightness of lime, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then blend with sugar until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, and lime juice until well combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract to the cream mixture and whisk until dissolved.
4. Fold the cream mixture into the avocado mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chilling time not included)
Cherry Almond Granita
This Italian-inspired dessert is a perfect way to beat the heat on a warm summer day. With its sweet and tangy flavors, this cherry almond granita is sure to become your new favorite treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1 quart water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherry juice and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in sliced almonds and almond extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a metal pan with a flat bottom. Cover with plastic wrap.
4. Place dish in the freezer and freeze for at least 2 hours, scraping the mixture with a fork every 30 minutes until desired consistency is reached (about 4-5 hours).
5. Once frozen, scoop into bowls and serve.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Caramel Flan
A classic French dessert, caramel flan is a rich and creamy treat that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and kosher salt. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Watermelon Sorbet with Mint
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing sorbet, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year. This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of watermelon with the cooling essence of mint.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the watermelon puree, sugar, and heavy cream. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh mint leaves and lime juice.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking involved)
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 20 refreshing cold dessert recipes! From classic vanilla ice cream to unique flavors like matcha green tea and avocado lime, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in creamy treats like strawberry cheesecake mousse and tiramisu parfait, or cool off with fruity options like lemon sorbet and watermelon sorbet with mint. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich dessert or a light and refreshing treat, these cold desserts are sure to hit the spot.