There's something magical about the combination of BBQs and desserts that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to any summer gathering. From no-bake treats to refreshing fruit-based delights, there are several ways to sweeten your next cookout.
Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ as part of your housewarming party or enjoying a family picnic, these BBQ desserts are sure to be the perfect ending to a delicious meal. Fire up the grill and indulge in mouthwatering treats that will leave everyone craving more.
- Easy, No-Bake Cookout Desserts
- Fruit-Based Desserts to Bring to a BBQ
- BBQ Desserts Everyone Will Love
- Tips for Transporting Your BBQ Desserts & Ensuring Food Safety
- BBQ Desserts: FAQs
- Ensure a Successful Cookout with Delicious BBQ Desserts
Easy, No-Bake Cookout Desserts
Nothing beats the convenience and deliciousness of no-bake desserts. These sweet treats require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor, making them the perfect addition to any BBQ spread. Whether you're hosting a backyard bash or a picnic in the park, these easy cookout desserts will delight everyone without heating up the kitchen.
No-bake cheesecake jars
These delightful desserts perfectly combine creamy cheesecake goodness with a crunchy graham cracker crust, all conveniently packaged in individual jars. Simply mix cream cheese, sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Then, layer it with crushed graham crackers and your favorite fruit compote or pie filling. Chill in the refrigerator until set, and you have a delicious and elegant dessert for any BBQ.
Cookie ice cream sandwiches
Enjoy homemade cookie ice cream sandwiches for a classic summer treat that doesn't require baking. Sandwich a scoop of softened ice cream between two soft and chewy cookies. Then, roll the edges in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed nuts for extra flavor.
For a unique twist, try combinations like red velvet cookies with chocolate ice cream or triple chocolate cookies with mint chip ice cream. These customizable treats will surely be a hit with kids and adults, making them the perfect dessert for a cookout.
Peanut butter bars
Indulge your sweet tooth with irresistible peanut butter bars. Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Then, press the mixture into a glass pan and chill until firm.
Top with a layer of melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch. These no-bake bars are rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious!
Icebox cake
Cool off on a hot summer day with a refreshing icebox cake that's as easy to make as it is delicious. Layer graham crackers or wafer cookies with whipped cream or pudding. Then, chill in the refrigerator overnight until the layers have melded together into a creamy, dreamy dessert.
Top with fresh fruit or chocolate shavings for a finishing touch. Icebox cake is the perfect no-bake cookout dessert with its simple preparation and irresistible flavor.
Fruit-Based Desserts to Bring to a BBQ
When it's time to bring a dessert to a BBQ, nothing beats the refreshing sweetness of fruit-based treats. These desserts are delicious and perfect for outdoor events, offering a light and satisfying end to a summer meal.
Strawberry popsicles
Cool off on a hot day with homemade strawberry popsicles bursting with fresh fruit flavor. Blend ripe strawberries with a splash of lemon juice and a dash of honey or sugar. Then, pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid. These vibrant popsicles are delicious, healthy, and refreshing desserts to bring to a BBQ.
Key lime pie
Transport yourself to the tropics with a classic key lime pie that's tangy, creamy, and refreshing. Made with fresh lime juice and sweetened condensed milk, this iconic dessert is a breeze to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it chilled with whipped cream and lime zest for a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious.
Grilled pineapple
Grilled pineapple is one of the most popular BBQ desserts because it's simple yet refreshing. Brush pineapple slices with melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Then, grill until caramelized and slightly charred. The warmth of the grill enhances the pineapple's natural sweetness, creating a mouthwatering dessert that's simple yet sophisticated.
Ambrosia salad
Whip up a batch of ambrosia salad that's bursting with tropical flavors. Mix canned fruit cocktail, pineapple, oranges, shredded coconut, and mini marshmallows. Then, fold in whipped cream or Greek yogurt. Chill the salad a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld together, creating a sweet and satisfying cookout dessert.
BBQ Desserts Everyone Will Love
Satisfy your sweet tooth with the best BBQ desserts that will delight kids and adults. From classic flavors to innovative treats, these cookout desserts are guaranteed to be a hit at any outdoor gathering.
Classic chocolate chip cookies
You can't go wrong with a plate of classic chocolate chip cookies. These timeless treats are loved for their chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. Whip up a batch of cookies or get Mrs. Fields® soft-baked cookies delivered to your doorstep.
S'mores
No BBQ is complete without this iconic campfire treat! Gather around the fire pit or BBQ and roast marshmallows to golden perfection. Then, sandwich them between graham crackers and a slab of chocolate for a gooey and indulgent dessert that will bring out the kid in everyone.
Chocolate cake
Indulge your sweet tooth with a rich chocolate cake. Whether you choose a towering layer cake or a simple sheet cake, chocolate cake is always a popular BBQ dessert. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream, or serve it with vanilla ice cream.
Brownie bites
Whip up a batch of brownie bites for a bite-sized treat packed with rich chocolate. These fudgy little squares are the perfect size for snacking and are guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate craving.
Tips for Transporting Your BBQ Desserts & Ensuring Food Safety
Transporting your BBQ desserts to outdoor events can be a breeze with a bit of preparation and attention to food safety. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Use sturdy containers: Opt for sturdy and air-tight containers to prevent your desserts from getting crushed or spilled during transport. Consider using plastic containers with secure lids or disposable aluminum pans covered with plastic wrap or foil.
- Wrap individual portions: Keep cookies fresh by wrapping them individually. You can also do this with other individually portioned desserts to make transporting them easier while preventing them from sticking together.
- Pack strategically: Strategically arrange your desserts in the container to minimize movement during transport. Place heavier desserts on the bottom and lighter items on top to prevent crushing. Use paper towels to fill empty spaces and cushion your desserts.
- Keep desserts chilled: If your desserts need to be refrigerated, be sure to pack them in a cooler with ice packs to keep them cold.
- Serve safely: Once you arrive at your destination, set up your desserts in a shady spot away from direct sunlight and keep them covered until it's time to serve.
BBQ Desserts: FAQs
Which desserts are best for Texas BBQs?
For Texas BBQs, desserts that are hearty, flavorful, and easy to eat are often the best choices. Some options include:
- Pecan pie: As a classic Southern dessert, pecan pie is rich and sweet, perfect for indulging after a hearty BBQ meal.
- Peach cobbler: Made with fresh peaches and a buttery biscuit topping, peach cobbler makes the perfect BBQ dessert.
- Texas sheet cake: Who says sheet cake is only for birthday parties? This moist cake is a favorite at Texas BBQs for its rich flavor and ability to be served easily.
- Banana pudding: Creamy, comforting, and delicious, banana pudding is a beloved Southern dessert. It's a refreshing treat layered with vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and whipped cream.
What desserts pair well with hamburgers?
When pairing desserts with hamburgers, it's best to choose options that complement the savory flavors of the burger without overpowering them. Here are some desserts that pair well with burgers:
- Chocolate chip cookies: Classic chocolate chip cookies are always a crowd-pleaser and pair perfectly with the savory flavors of a hamburger.
- Ice cream sundaes: Cool and refreshing ice cream sundaes are a delightful treat to enjoy after a hearty hamburger.
- Fruit salad: A light fruit salad is the perfect palate cleanser after eating a juicy hamburger. Mix your favorite fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple, for a sweet and tangy dessert full of flavor.
- Milkshakes: Milkshakes are a classic choice to enjoy alongside a burger. Whether you prefer chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry, a cold and creamy milkshake is the perfect way to end a meal.
What cookout desserts do well in the heat?
When it's hot outside, choose cookout desserts that can withstand the heat and still taste delicious. Some options include:
- Frozen treats: Popsicles, ice cream sandwiches, and frozen yogurt cups are perfect for hot days, as they stay cold and refreshing even in the heat. Plus, they're easy to eat with your hands, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings. Remember to keep them in a cooler until it's time to eat them.
- No-bake desserts: Desserts that don't require baking are great options for hot-weather cookouts. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve.
- Light and airy desserts: Light and airy desserts like mousse are also well-suited for hot-weather cookouts. They're not too heavy or rich, making them a refreshing treat on a hot day.
Ensure a Successful Cookout with Delicious BBQ Desserts
With a lineup of mouthwatering BBQ desserts, your next outdoor gathering is bound to be a hit. If you're looking to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones, consider opting out of making everything from scratch.
Mrs. Fields® offers a wide range of delicious treats. From our signature soft-baked cookies to indulgent brownie bites, we have something for everyone to enjoy and ordering online for delivery couldn’t be easier