13 Make Ahead Summer Desserts You Can Make Today and Enjoy Tomorrow
When summer heats up, the last thing you want is to be stuck in the kitchen with the oven on. That’s where make-ahead and no-bake desserts shine—they’re cool, convenient, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. From fruity icebox cakes to tropical lush desserts, these treats are perfect for BBQs, pool parties, or just a sweet ending to a hot day. You can prep them ahead, chill until ready, and enjoy stress-free entertaining all season long.
Cherry Lush
Cherry lush is the kind of no-bake dessert that feels like pure indulgence—creamy, fruity, and totally crave-worthy. It starts with a buttery graham cracker crust, then gets layered with smooth, sweetened cream cheese, airy whipped topping, and a glistening cherry pie filling. It’s an ideal make-ahead dessert for cookouts, festive gatherings, or anytime you want something that looks stunning but comes together easily.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Lush
Strawberry Cool Whip Pie
This no-bake strawberry Cool Whip pie is the perfect fuss-free dessert made with fresh strawberries, a splash of lemon juice, sweet jam, and rich cream cheese blended into a light and fruity treat. It is cool, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you are making it for a gathering or just treating yourself, this creamy strawberry pie always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cool Whip Pie
No-Bake Pineapple Cheesecake
If you want a no-bake dessert that’s rich, sweet, and bursting with tropical flavor, this easy pineapple cheesecake is a must-try. This simple cheesecake is sure to stand out at any event and leave everyone wanting another slice.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Pineapple Cheesecake
Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Strawberry shortcake cheesecake begins with a buttery Golden Oreo crust and features layers of smooth vanilla and strawberry cheesecake, all topped with a vibrant strawberry crumble that brings back memories of childhood ice cream bars.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake
Drumstick Pie
Drumstick pie captures all the fun and flavor of the classic ice cream cone in a cool, creamy dessert that’s simple to make and sure to please. It is a perfect pick for warm weather, but delicious enough to enjoy any time of year. This nostalgic favorite is always a crowd-pleaser, whether for a party or just because.
Get the Recipe: Drumstick Pie
Oreo Pie
This no-bake Oreo pie is a must for cookies and cream fans, featuring a crisp Oreo crust and a rich, creamy filling loaded with cookie pieces. It is simple to prepare but delivers big on taste and presentation, making it an excellent choice for any celebration or sweet craving. This pie is always a hit, whether for a party or just a treat at home.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Pie
Tartufo
This tartufo recipe is frozen dessert bliss, offering a fun and elegant twist on a nostalgic favorite. Layers of creamy ice cream hide a sweet cherry center, all coated in a thick chocolate shell and finished with a crispy cookie crumb exterior. It is rich, impressive, and easier to make than it looks. Whether you are hosting guests or simply craving something special, this Italian-style treat is sure to impress without ever needing the oven.
Get the Recipe: Tartufo
Key Lime Lush
This key lime lush is a refreshing no-bake dessert that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. It starts with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a smooth cheesecake layer and a bright, tangy key lime filling. Whether for a barbecue or a casual get-together, this creamy layered dessert is sure to disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Lush
Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Lasagna
Strawberry lemon cheesecake lasagna is the no-bake dessert you did not know you were missing. Light, creamy, and full of fruity flavor, it layers a crushed cookie crust with a smooth strawberry-lemon filling, whipped topping, and fresh strawberries. Every bite is a refreshing mix of sweetness and citrusy zing. It is the perfect make-ahead treat for summer parties or any time you want an easy yet impressive dessert.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lemon Cheesecake Lasagna
Mixed Berry Jello Dessert
This colorful mixed berry jello dessert blends the bright, tangy flavors of fresh berries with a creamy condensed milk jello layer for a nostalgic and crowd-pleasing treat. Its flaky crust and eye-catching layers make it ideal for potlucks, picnics, or summer get-togethers. Easy to make and hard to resist, this retro-style dessert is sure to be a hit wherever you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Jello Dessert
Layered Strawberry Jello Cups
Layered strawberry jello cups are a cheerful and flavorful dessert that looks just as good as it tastes. Featuring bright jello, creamy layers, cookie crumbles, and a smooth topping, these no-bake treats are sure to stand out. Great for parties, picnics, or a fun weekday pick-me-up, they are simple to assemble and easy to personalize.
Get the Recipe: Layered Strawberry Jello Cups
No-Bake Tropical Coconut Pineapple Lush Dessert
Sweet, tropical, and full of flavor, this coconut pineapple lush cake is a refreshing treat that’s hard to resist. It is the perfect make-ahead option for summer gatherings, offering a cool and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Serve it at your next BBQ and watch it disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Tropical Coconut Pineapple Lush Dessert
Cherry Cheesecake Icebox Cake
This cherry cheesecake icebox cake is a simple, no-bake dessert that’s full of creamy, fruity goodness. Made with just six ingredients—heavy cream, powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, graham crackers, and cherry pie filling—it comes together quickly and delivers big flavor. It is an easy go-to treat you will want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake Icebox Cake
