15 Summer Desserts for a BBQ | Grill-Side Companions

Summer barbecues invite delightful desserts that complete outdoor feasts. Grilled Peach Melba offers sweet peaches topped with vanilla ice cream, while S’mores Skewers bring classic flavors to the grill. Invigorating Coconut Lime Sorbet cools down warm evenings, and Berry Parfaits combine fresh berries and creamy yogurt for a light treat. Tropical Fruit Salad bursts with vibrant flavors, making it a perfect side. From ice creams to invigorating salads, there’s much to discover for the perfect BBQ ending.

Grilled Peach Melba

Grilled Peach Melba is a delightful summer dessert that combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with creamy vanilla ice cream and a tangy raspberry sauce.

This dish is perfect for outdoor barbecues, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a light yet decadent treat.

The preparation time for this dish is about 15 minutes, while grilling takes an additional 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy dessert that showcases the best of summer fruit.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium heat.

2. Prepare Peaches: Brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a lovely flavor.

3. Grill Peaches: Place the peaches cut side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the peaches are slightly softened. Turn them over and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes.

4. Make Raspberry Sauce: While the peaches are grilling, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat.

Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring gently until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

5. Serve: To serve, place the grilled peach halves on dessert plates, scoop a generous portion of vanilla ice cream on top, and drizzle with the raspberry sauce. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Variations and Tips:

• Ice Cream Alternatives: Swap vanilla ice cream for other flavors like coconut, almond, or even yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Add Nuts: Crushed almonds or walnuts sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch.
• Different Fruits: Try the same recipe using nectarines or plums for a twist.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the raspberry sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick serving later.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free ice cream alternative to make this dessert suitable for vegan eaters.

Enjoy your Grilled Peach Melba with family and friends for a rejuvenating end to your summer BBQ!

Watermelon Feta Salad

The Watermelon Feta Salad is a revitalizing and vibrant dish that perfectly complements any summer BBQ gathering. This salad combines the sweetness of juicy watermelon with the creamy saltiness of feta cheese, making it an ideal dish for those looking for a light and flavorful side.

It’s especially great for vegetarians and can be prepared in just 15 minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the sunny outdoors with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of seedless watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon zest (optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed watermelon and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves to the bowl with the watermelon and feta.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and gently toss to mix all ingredients, taking care not to break up the watermelon too much.
4. If desired, add the balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. For an added touch, sprinkle lemon zest on top before serving.

Variations and Tips:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Herb Options: Experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley for a twist on flavor.
• Chill Time: For heightened flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
• Serving: Serve this salad in a large bowl for sharing or portion it into individual cups for a stylish presentation.

S’mores Skewers

S’mores Skewers are a fun and interactive dessert that captures the essence of a classic campfire treat but can be made easily on the grill during your summer BBQ.

Perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers, these skewers are sure to please both kids and adults alike. The preparation time is minimal, taking just about 10 minutes to assemble and another 5-10 minutes for grilling, making it a quick and delightful addition to your outdoor feast.

Ingredients:

• 8 wooden or metal skewers
• 8 graham crackers, broken into squares
• 8 large marshmallows
• 8 chocolate squares (or a chocolate bar, broken into pieces)
• Optional: sliced fruits (strawberries, bananas, or pineapple)
• Optional: drizzles of caramel or chocolate sauce

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Assemble the skewers by threading a graham cracker piece, a marshmallow, a piece of chocolate, and then another graham cracker piece onto each skewer. Repeat the process for all skewers.
3. If desired, add sliced fruits between the layers of chocolate and graham crackers for added flavor and variety.
4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the marshmallows are golden brown and gooey, and the chocolate has started to melt.
5. Remove skewers from the grill carefully and, if you like, drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce before serving.

Variations and Tips:

• Try using flavored marshmallows (like chocolate or strawberry) for a twist on the classic flavor.
• For a nutty addition, place a thin slice of peanut butter or Nutella between the chocolate and the graham crackers.
• Instead of grilling, you can also use a campfire or a broiler if you’re indoors.
• To keep the ingredients from sticking, you can lightly spray the skewers with cooking spray before assembling.

Enjoy the gooey goodness of S’mores Skewers while making beautiful summer memories at your BBQ!

Coconut Lime Sorbet

Coconut Lime Sorbet is a revitalizing and tropical dessert that perfectly complements summer BBQs, offering a cool and zesty finish to your meal. This dairy-free dessert is ideal for anyone looking for a light and fruity treat to beat the heat, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.

The preparation time is around 10 minutes, with additional freezing time needed for a delightful sorbet texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 oz) of full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-6 limes)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 limes
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Steps:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, fresh lime juice, sugar, lime zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or tartness, if needed, by adding more sugar or lime juice to suit your preference.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or a freezer-safe container, spreading it out evenly.
4. Place the container in the freezer and allow it to freeze for about 4-6 hours, or until it is fully firm.
5. Every 30 minutes during the first 2-3 hours, take the mixture out and stir vigorously using a fork to break up any ice crystals. This guarantees a smooth and creamy texture.
6. Once the sorbet is firm, let it sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving for easy scooping.

Variations and Tips:

• For a fruitier sorbet, add 1 cup of pureed fruit such as mango, pineapple, or passion fruit to the mixture before freezing.
• Use a high-speed blender to combine the ingredients for a smoother consistency.
• Add a few mint leaves during mixing for a revitalizing twist.
• Serve the sorbet in chilled bowls or hollowed-out lime halves for a fun presentation.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to allow it to soften slightly before scooping again.

Berry Parfaits

Berry parfaits are a revitalizing and visually stunning dessert perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or even as a light treat on a warm afternoon. This dish layers creamy yogurt with fresh berries and granola, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

It is ideal for health-conscious individuals and fruit lovers alike, and can be prepared in just 15-20 minutes, making it an easy yet impressive addition to your summer menu.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 2 cups of Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
• 1 cup of granola
• 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Berries: Rinse your mixed berries thoroughly under cold water. If using strawberries, hull and slice them into smaller pieces.
2. Sweeten the Yogurt: In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with honey or maple syrup if desired, stirring until well combined.
3. Layer Ingredients: In serving glass cups or bowls, start by adding a layer of the sweetened yogurt at the bottom.
4. Add Berries: Place a layer of mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
5. Add Granola: Sprinkle a layer of granola over the berries.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with yogurt, berries, and granola until the cups are filled, finishing with a berry layer on top.
7. Garnish and Serve: Add a fresh mint leaf on top for garnish if desired. Serve immediately for best texture or chill in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes.

Variations:

• Fruit Swaps: You can swap out the berries for other fruits like diced peaches, mangoes, or bananas based on your preference and availability.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt or almond yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free option.
• Nutty Flavor: Mix in a handful of chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

Tips:

• For the best presentation, use clear glassware to showcase the layers.
• Prepare individual servings earlier in the day and store them covered in the refrigerator until serving time.
• Customize your parfait by trying different flavored yogurts or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake is a classic summer dessert that perfectly captures the essence of sunny days and outdoor gatherings, making it an ideal treat for BBQs and picnics. This delightful dish features layers of fluffy cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, offering a light and invigorating option to enjoy after a hearty meal.

With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, this dessert is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that will complement any summer event.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Extra strawberries for garnish (optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss gently to coat, then set aside for about 15 minutes to allow the juices to release.

2. Make the Shortcake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined and dough forms.

4. Bake the Cake: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick rectangle. Cut into squares or rounds, depending on your preference.

Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool.

5. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form.

6. Assemble the Shortcakes: Once the shortcakes have cooled, slice them in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of the macerated strawberries onto the bottom half, followed by a dollop of whipped cream.

Place the top half back on and finish with additional whipped cream and strawberries, if desired.

Variations and Tips:

• Add Citrus Zest: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding lemon or orange zest to the whipped cream.
• Alternative Berries: Mix different berries like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a delightful twist on the traditional recipe.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of all-purpose flour.
• Serve with Ice Cream: For a decadent touch, serve the shortcake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Prepare Ahead: You can prepare the strawberries and whipped cream a few hours in advance to save time before serving.

This Strawberry Shortcake recipe will certainly be a hit at your next BBQ, leaving your guests with sweet memories of summer!

Lemon Blueberry Bars

Lemon Blueberry Bars are a revitalizing and tangy dessert that are perfect for summer BBQs. With their zesty lemon flavor and sweet bursts of juicy blueberries, these bars are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

They can be prepared in about 30 minutes, plus an additional hour for chilling, making them a quick yet impressive dessert option to serve at your next outdoor gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• Additional powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract, and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
3. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
4. Make the Filling: While the crust is baking, in a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and baking powder until well combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
5. Assemble and Bake: Once the crust is baked, pour the lemon-blueberry filling over the hot crust. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
6. Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 1 hour for the best texture.
7. Serve: Once chilled, dust with powdered sugar if desired, cut into squares, and enjoy!

Variations and Tips:

• Different Berries: Feel free to substitute blueberries with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
• Add a Crunch: For added texture, mix in some crushed nuts or granola into the crust or topping.
• Lemon Lovers: Increase the lemon zest for a more intense lemon flavor.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

These Lemon Blueberry Bars are not only easy to make but also a delightful addition to any summer BBQ table, offering a bright and revitalizing end to a fun-filled day!

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Chocolate Avocado Mousse is a delightful and decadent dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of ripe avocados with the irresistible flavor of chocolate.

This dish is perfect for those looking for a healthy yet indulgent treat, ideal for summer BBQs or gatherings where guests might appreciate a lighter dessert option.

With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, this mousse is not only simple to make but also impressively delicious, making it a go-to recipe for any chocolate lover.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of sea salt
• Optional: Fresh berries or nuts for topping

Instructions:

1. Start by cutting the avocados in half, removing the pit, and scooping the flesh into a food processor.
2. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, maple syrup (or honey), almond milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the food processor.
3. Blend the ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the processor a few times to ascertain everything is well incorporated.
4. Taste the mousse and adjust the sweetness if desired, adding more maple syrup or honey as necessary.
5. Once fully blended, transfer the mousse into serving bowls or glasses and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and set.
6. Serve cold, optionally topped with fresh berries or nuts for added texture and flavor.

Variations & Tips:

• For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of nut butter such as almond or peanut butter to the mousse mixture.
• If you’re looking for a lighter, airy mousse, try folding in whipped coconut cream just before serving.
• For a hint of spice, add a dash of cinnamon or a few teaspoons of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• You can make this dessert a day ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the taste further.

Enjoy this delightful Chocolate Avocado Mousse as a guilt-free treat at your next summer BBQ!

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that features a beautiful caramelized pineapple topping over a moist, fluffy cake. This upside-down treat is perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or any celebration where you want to impress your guests with a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert.

With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 40-45 minutes, this cake can be made in advance and served warm or at room temperature.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple, drained
• Maraschino cherries (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the butter in the oven. Once melted, remove the pan and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
3. Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar mixture, and place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring if desired.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
5. In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
6. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
7. Pour the batter over the pineapple and brown sugar layer in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. Let it cool completely before slicing.

Variations and Tips:

• For a tropical twist, you can add shredded coconut or chopped nuts to the batter or sprinkle them on top of the pineapple before adding the batter.
• If you prefer a more caramelized flavor, consider using fresh pineapple instead of canned, as it may provide a richer taste.
• This cake can be served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Raspberry Lemonade Ice Pops

Raspberry Lemonade Ice Pops are the perfect summer treat to cool you down during a backyard BBQ.

These invigorating and tangy ice pops combine the zesty flavor of lemonade with the sweet tartness of fresh raspberries, making them ideal for kids and adults alike.

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a freeze time of 4-6 hours, you can easily whip these up a day before your gathering for a delightful dessert that will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh raspberries
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 cups water
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Blend the Raspberries: In a blender or food processor, add the fresh raspberries and the remaining 1 cup of water. Blend until smooth. You can strain this mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds if desired, but it’s optional.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled simple syrup, lemon juice, raspberry puree, lemon zest (if using), and a pinch of salt until well combined.
4. Fill the Molds: Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving a little space at the top for expansion as they freeze. If you don’t have molds, you can use small paper cups and insert sticks after about 1-2 hours of freezing when the mixture is semi-firm.
5. Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer and let them freeze for 4-6 hours or until solid.
6. Serve: To remove the ice pops from the molds, run them under warm water for a few seconds until they loosen. Enjoy your invigorating Raspberry Lemonade Ice Pops!

Variations and Tips:

• Fruit Variations: Feel free to substitute raspberries with other fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or peaches for a different flavor profile.
• Creamy Option: Add a layer of yogurt or coconut milk to the ice pop mixture before freezing for a creamier texture.
• Alcoholic Twist: For an adult version, consider adding a splash of vodka or rum to each pop mixture for an invigorating cocktail treat!
• Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of sugar based on the ripeness of the fruit used.
• Storage: Keep leftover ice pops in a sealed container or plastic bag in the freezer for up to 2 months.

No-Bake Key Lime Pie

No-Bake Key Lime Pie is a revitalizing and tangy dessert that’s perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings. This light and zesty pie requires no baking, making it a hassle-free option for those hot days when turning on the oven isn’t appealing.

Ideal for any lime lover, it has a creaminess that balances perfectly with the tartness of key limes. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a chilling time of 4 to 6 hours, allowing you to relax while the pie sets up beautifully in the refrigerator.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 4-5 key limes)
• Zest of 2 key limes
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Whipped cream and lime wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until well combined.
2. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and well incorporated.
4. In another mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar until medium peaks form.
5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the key lime mixture until no white streaks remain.
6. Pour the key lime filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 to 6 hours, or overnight for best results.
8. Before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with lime wedges if desired.

Variations & Tips:

• For an added flavor twist, incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the key lime filling.
• You can substitute regular limes if key limes are not available, although the flavor will be slightly different.
• To make a mini version, use individual tart shells and adjust the chilling time accordingly.
• For a gluten-free option, replace the graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten-free cookies.
• Consider adding a layer of fresh fruit, such as berries, on top of the whipped cream for a colorful finish and extra flavor.

Grilled Banana Splits

Grilled banana splits are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings. This fun and easy dish is ideal for both kids and adults who enjoy the smoky sweetness of caramelized bananas paired with their favorite ice cream. Preparation time is quick, taking about 15 minutes, making it an excellent option for those who want a delicious dessert without much fuss.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• Vanilla or chocolate ice cream
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Cherries for garnish (optional)
• Aluminum foil

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Slice each banana lengthwise, keeping the peel on. Gently push the sides of the banana halves apart to create a pocket.
3. Stuff each banana with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts.
4. Wrap each prepared banana in aluminum foil to hold in the toppings and juices while grilling.
5. Place the wrapped bananas on the grill and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, until the bananas are soft and the chocolate and marshmallows are melted.
6. Remove the bananas from the grill and unwrap them carefully, as they will be hot.
7. Scoop a generous portion of ice cream into the pocket of each grilled banana.
8. Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with whipped cream and a cherry if desired.

Variations and Tips:

• Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate chips, for a unique flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the bananas before wrapping them for extra warmth and depth.
• For a tropical twist, include shredded coconut or diced pineapple in the filling.
• If you don’t want to use foil, you can place the bananas in a grilling basket instead.
• For added fun, serve the grilled banana splits with various toppings like sprinkles, toffee pieces, or a drizzle of fudge sauce.

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Classic chocolate chip cookies are a beloved dessert that brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort to any BBQ gathering. With their warm, gooey chocolate centers and slightly crispy edges, these cookies are perfect for both kids and adults who enjoy a sweet treat after a hearty meal.

Preparation time for these cookies is about 15 minutes, with an additional 10 to 12 minutes of baking time, making them a quick and delightful option for serving alongside summer barbecues.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until combined. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips (and nuts if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden, and the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook slightly while cooling.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Variations & Tips:

• For a twist on the classic, try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for a coffee-flavored enhancement.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, for varied sweetness.
• If you’re short on time, refrigerate the dough for a few hours (or overnight) to enhance flavors.
• For a chunkier cookie, coarsely chop chocolate bars and replace some of the chocolate chips with the chunks.
• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer preservation.

Enjoy these delicious chocolate chip cookies at your next BBQ, and watch them disappear in no time!

Tropical Fruit Salad

Tropical Fruit Salad is a revitalizing and colorful dish, perfect for summer BBQs and gatherings. This vibrant salad combines a variety of tropical fruits, offering a burst of flavor and a feast for the eyes.

It’s an ideal side dish or dessert for those looking to enjoy a healthy and delicious option during warm weather. The preparation time for this salad is approximately 15-20 minutes, making it a quick and effortless addition to your summer menu.

Ingredients:

• 1 pineapple, peeled and diced
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup strawberries, halved
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing all the fruits. Cut the pineapple, mangoes, kiwis, strawberries, and banana into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the blueberries to the bowl with the other fruit.
3. Drizzle the lime juice over the fruit mixture. If you like a touch of sweetness, add the honey and gently toss everything together until the fruits are evenly coated.
4. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the tropical fruit salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves.

Variations & Tips:

• Feel free to experiment with your favorite tropical fruits. Options like papaya, guava, or even starfruit can add a unique twist.
• For an added crunch, consider topping the salad with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts.
• If preparing ahead of time, keep the banana separate until just before serving to prevent browning.
• For a festive touch, you can add a splash of coconut milk or yogurt for a creamier consistency.
• This salad can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of sorbet for a delightful dessert option.

Peach Ice Cream

Nothing beats the heat of a summer BBQ like a reviving bowl of homemade peach ice cream! This creamy, dreamy treat is the perfect dessert for peach lovers and can be a hit with both kids and adults alike. With just a prep time of around 20 minutes (plus freezing time), you can whip up this delightful ice cream that will brighten up any summer gathering!

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Steps:

1. In a medium bowl, mash the diced peaches with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture. Add 1/2 cup of sugar and lemon juice to the mashed peaches, and let them sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Fold the peach mixture into the cream mixture until well incorporated. Make sure to include the juices from the peaches for added flavor.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually around 20-25 minutes.
5. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2-4 hours or until firm.
6. Serve the peach ice cream in bowls or cones, garnished with additional peach slices or mint leaves if desired.

Variations & Tips:

• For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum when mixing the cream and milk.
• Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different taste profile.
• If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture with a fork to break up ice crystals until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Mix in other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a summery fruit medley ice cream!

Enjoy your homemade peach ice cream as a delightful treat following your summer BBQ!