Summer layered desserts in glass jars are a perfect way to enjoy invigorating flavors. Options include the Berry Bliss Parfait, Lemon Curd and Whipped Cream Layers, and Tropical Mango Coconut Delight. Other delightful choices are Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar, Chocolate Mousse and Raspberry Stack, and S’mores in a Jar. Each dessert features vibrant layers and is ideal for warm weather gatherings. Explore these ideas further to discover even more delicious creations for the season.
Berry Bliss Parfait
The Berry Bliss Parfait is a delightful and invigorating summer dessert that layers luscious berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola.
This dish is perfect for gathering family and friends on warm afternoons, making it an ideal treat for brunch, picnics, or even as a light dessert after dinner. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable addition to your summer menu.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
- 1 cup granola
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Rinse the mixed berries under cool water and gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and honey or maple syrup if you’re using it for sweetness. Stir until well-mixed.
- In serving glasses or bowls, start layering your parfait. Begin with a layer of Greek yogurt (about 1/4 cup).
- Next, add a layer of mixed berries (about 1/4 cup) on top of the yogurt.
- Follow the berry layer with a layer of granola (about 2 tablespoons), creating a crunchy texture.
- Repeat the layers (yogurt, berries, granola) until the glasses or bowls are filled, finishing with a layer of berries on top.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired, and serve immediately for the best texture.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, consider using flavored yogurt like vanilla or berry.
- Swap the granola for crushed nuts or seed mixes for a nutty crunch.
- If you want to make it more indulgent, add a layer of whipped cream or chocolate shavings.
- Make it a breakfast option by using overnight oats in place of granola for a heartier version.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonal fruits, such as peaches or cherries, for a unique twist.
Enjoy your Berry Bliss Parfait as an invigorating treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Lemon Curd and Whipped Cream Layers
Lemon Curd and Whipped Cream Layers is a revitalizing and indulgent dessert that captures the essence of summer with its bright, zesty flavors. This delightful treat is perfect for family barbecues, picnics, or as a light finish to a dinner party.
With a preparation time of around 30 minutes, plus chilling time, it’s a simple yet elegant dessert that anyone can enjoy, regardless of their baking skills.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh berries (e.g., blueberries, strawberries, raspberries) for garnish
- Crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies for layering (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium speed until soft peaks form, being careful not to overbeat it.
- Layer the Dessert: Take serving glasses or bowls and start by adding a layer of lemon curd at the bottom. Use about 2 tablespoons for each serving.
- Add Whipped Cream: Follow the lemon curd layer with a layer of whipped cream. Use roughly 2 tablespoons of whipped cream for each serving and gently spread it over the lemon curd to maintain the layers.
- Repeat Layers: If using a larger glass or bowl, repeat the layers of lemon curd and whipped cream until you reach the top. Finish with whipped cream on the top layer.
- Garnish: Top the final whipped cream layer with fresh berries and, if desired, some crushed graham crackers or shortbread cookies for added texture.
- Chill: Refrigerate the layered desserts for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Variations & Tips:
- Fruit Variations: You can substitute lemon curd with other flavors such as lime curd or orange curd for a citrus twist.
- Add an Alcoholic Kick: For an adult version, consider adding a splash of limoncello or another citrus liqueur to the lemon curd layer.
- Presentation: To elevate the presentation, serve the layered dessert in clear glasses showcasing the vibrant yellow lemon curd and white whipped cream.
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped cream.
This Lemon Curd and Whipped Cream Layers dessert not only looks stunning but is sure to impress your guests with its bright flavors, making it a perfect way to celebrate the season! Enjoy!
Tropical Mango Coconut Delight
This Tropic Mango Coconut Delight is a revitalizing layered dessert that embodies the essence of summer with its luscious mango and creamy coconut flavors. It’s perfect for beach gatherings, poolside parties, or simply enjoyed at home when you want to escape to a tropical paradise.
This delightful treat takes about 30 minutes to prepare, not including the chilling time, making it an easy yet impressive dessert to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (toasted, optional)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine coconut milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is completely dissolved.
- In another bowl, fold the whipped cream into the coconut mixture until well combined. This will create a light and airy coconut cream layer.
- Select a serving dish or individual glasses for layering. Start by adding a layer of graham cracker crumbs to the bottom.
- Next, spoon a layer of the coconut cream mixture over the crumbs, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Add a layer of diced mango over the coconut cream.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of coconut cream on top.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
- Chill the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and for a revitalizing treat.
Variations and Tips:
- To enhance the tropical flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the mango layer.
- For a fun twist, incorporate other tropical fruits like pineapple or passion fruit in place of, or alongside, the mango.
- If you’re looking for a healthier option, try substituting the whipped cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy taste.
- Serve in individual cups for a fancy presentation and easier portion control.
- This dessert can also be made a day in advance, allowing more time for flavors to develop.
Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar
Strawberry Shortcake in a Jar is a delightful and visually appealing dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer.
With layers of fluffy whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and crumbly shortcake, it’s a perfect treat for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying at home.
This layered dessert is not only charming but also incredibly easy to prepare, requiring about 30 minutes of prep time.
It’s ideal for families, gatherings, or anyone looking to indulge in a sweet and revitalizing dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shortcake or pound cake, crumbled
- Additional strawberries for garnish (optional)
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss gently and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue to whip until stiff peaks form.
- In clean jars or cups, start layering your dessert. Begin with a layer of crumbled shortcake at the bottom.
- Next, add a layer of the macerated strawberries, followed by a layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat the layering process until you fill the jars, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with additional fresh strawberries and a mint leaf, if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- Cake Options: Substitute shortcake with angel food cake or biscuit for varied textures.
- Berry Mix: For a twist, incorporate other berries such as blueberries or raspberries along with strawberries.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the components in advance and layer them right before serving for fresher flavors.
- Storage: These jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover them to maintain freshness.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even richer treat.
Chocolate Mousse and Raspberry Stack
Chocolate Mousse and Raspberry Stack is a delightful summer dessert that combines the rich creaminess of chocolate mousse with the tartness of fresh raspberries. This layered treat is not only a feast for the eyes, but it is also perfect for entertaining guests during summer gatherings, celebrations, or even as a sweet indulgence on a warm evening.
The preparation time for this dessert is approximately 30 minutes, plus chilling time, making it a relatively simple yet impressive option for both novice and experienced bakers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for garnish)
- Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Cooking Steps
- Melt the Chocolate: In a double boiler or microwave, melt the dark chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Mousse Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Combine Chocolate and Eggs: Once the chocolate has cooled but is still pourable, gently fold it into the egg mixture until combined.
- Whip the Cream: In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Then, fold in the remaining whipped cream carefully to maintain the airy texture.
- Layer the Dessert: In serving glasses or bowls, start by adding a layer of chocolate mousse, followed by a layer of fresh raspberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with a chocolate mousse layer on top.
- Chill: Cover the desserts with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Serve: Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with additional raspberries and mint leaves if desired.
Variations and Tips
- For a different twist, try using white chocolate or milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
- Add a layer of crushed cookies, such as Oreos or graham crackers, between the mousse and raspberry layers for added texture.
- If you don’t have fresh raspberries, you can substitute with other berries like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries.
- To make the dessert even more decadent, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce or berry compote on top before serving.
- Make sure the chocolate isn’t too hot when mixing it with the eggs to prevent cooking them; it should be at room temperature or slightly warm.
Peach Melba Layered Delight
Peach Melba Layered Delight is a rejuvenating and visually stunning dessert that brings together luscious peaches, velvety vanilla cream, and tart raspberry sauce. This delightful layered treat is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With a total preparation time of about 30 minutes, plus chilling time, it can serve as an elegant dessert to impress guests or a fun family treat.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/4 cup sugar (for raspberries)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
- Granola or crushed cookies for crunch (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Make the Raspberry Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries and 1/4 cup of sugar over medium heat. Cook until the raspberries have softened and released their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold in the Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.
- In serving glasses or a trifle dish, start by adding a layer of sliced peaches.
- Follow with a layer of the vanilla cream mixture, then a drizzle of raspberry sauce.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the vanilla cream on top.
- Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
- Just before serving, add a sprig of mint for decoration and sprinkle some granola or crushed cookies on top for added crunch, if desired.
- Fruit Choice: You can mix things up with other seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries for different flavor combinations.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the heavy cream and yogurt/mascarpone with coconut cream and a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Make Ahead: This dessert can be prepared a day in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
- Presentation: For a classy twist, layer the dessert in clear glasses, showcasing the beautiful colors of the peach, cream, and raspberry sauce.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of peach or raspberry liqueur to the fruit or cream layers for an adult version.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- Zest of 2 key limes
- Whipped cream for topping
- Lime slices for garnish (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Variations and Tips:
Enjoy your Peach Melba Layered Delight as a rejuvenating, indulgent summertime dessert!
Key Lime Pie in a Jar
Key Lime Pie in a Jar is a delightful and invigorating dessert that perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of traditional key lime pie, served in a fun and portable format.
This layered dessert is an ideal treat for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as a special treat any time you crave something citrusy and sweet. With a preparation time of approximately 20 minutes and a chilling time of 2 hours, you can whip up these charming individual servings that are sure to impress your guests while offering a convenient mess-free option.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- In small jars or cups, spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each jar, packing it down gently to form a crust layer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and well combined.
- Carefully pour the key lime filling over the graham cracker crust in each jar, filling them about 2/3 of the way full.
- Place the jars in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
- Before serving, top each jar with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with lime slices or fresh mint leaves if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed nuts instead of traditional graham crackers.
- Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or orange for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
- If you prefer a sweeter pie, adjust the sugar in the filling, or layer in some sweetened berries for added sweetness.
- Serve with a sprig of mint for a fresh touch and an extra pop of color.
- These jars can be made a day in advance, making them a great option for stress-free entertaining.
Enjoy your delightful Key Lime Pie in a Jar, a perfect summer layered dessert!
Chocolate Strawberry Swirl
Chocolate Strawberry Swirl is a delightful layered dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the fresh sweetness of strawberries. This no-bake treat is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a sweet finish to a warm day.
The dessert is light yet indulgent, making it an ideal choice for chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, and a few hours to chill in the refrigerator, this dish is easy to assemble and sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/2 cup chocolate syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or chocolate cookies
- Chocolate shavings or extra sliced strawberries for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar, tossing them to coat. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In a serving dish or individual cups, layer the crushed graham crackers or chocolate cookies at the bottom.
- Spoon a layer of the whipped cream mixture over the cookies, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries with their juices. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the strawberries.
- Repeat the layers (cookies, whipped cream, strawberries, and chocolate syrup) until the dish is filled, ending with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or extra sliced strawberries if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
Variations and Tips
- For a healthier twist, you can substitute the chocolate syrup with a homemade chocolate ganache made from dark chocolate and coconut milk.
- Add different layers by including sliced bananas or other berries such as blueberries or raspberries.
- You can use store-bought whipped topping as a shortcut instead of whipping heavy cream.
- For a more indulgent experience, consider adding a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier to the strawberries prior to layering.
- Make sure to taste the whipped cream mixture and the strawberries to adjust sweetness to your preference before assembling the layers.
Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait
The Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait is a delightful layered dessert that beautifully combines the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the fresh, tangy flavor of blueberries. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a light treat at home, this dessert is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. The total preparation time is about 30 minutes, plus an additional hour for chilling, making it an ideal make-ahead option when you’re entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the fresh blueberries and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Toss to coat and set aside for 10 minutes to macerate.
- In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until all crumbs are evenly coated.
- To assemble the parfaits, start by layering the graham cracker mixture at the bottom of serving glasses or bowls.
- Next, add a layer of the cheesecake mixture on top of the crumbs, followed by a layer of the macerated blueberries. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full, finishing with a layer of blueberries on top.
- Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Variations and Tips:
- Fruit Variations: Swap out blueberries for other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches to suit your preference or seasonal availability.
- Add Some Crunch: For added texture, consider incorporating nuts or toasting coconut flakes to sprinkle between layers.
- Healthier Options: Use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a lighter version, and substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the parfaits a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator; they can last up to two days.
- Garnishing: Before serving, top each parfait with additional fresh berries and a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation.
Enjoy this invigorating Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait as a summer delight that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Honeydew and Lime Granita Layers
Looking for a revitalizing treat to beat the summer heat? Honeydew and Lime Granita Layers are the perfect dessert for warm weather gatherings and a delightful way to cool down!
This light and vibrant sweet treat is ideal for fruit lovers and makes an excellent palate cleanser between meals or a simple yet impressive finish to any dinner party. Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 4 hours needed for freezing, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium ripe honeydew melon, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water
- Zest of 1 lime
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the honeydew melon and lime juice. Blend until completely smooth.
- In a small saucepan, mix the granulated sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Pour the sugar mixture into the honeydew-lime puree and mix well. Add the lime zest for an extra burst of flavor.
- Transfer the mixture into a shallow dish (like a metal baking pan) and spread it out evenly.
- Place the dish in the freezer and allow it to freeze for 1 hour.
- After an hour, take the dish out and use a fork to scrape the mixture into fluffy granita flakes. Return it to the freezer.
- Repeat the scraping every 30 minutes until the entire mixture is frozen and has a light, granular texture (approximately 4 hours total).
- Once ready, scoop the granita into serving glasses, layering it for an attractive presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- For added flavor, consider infusing the sugar syrup with fresh ginger or basil before adding it to the puree.
- Substitute honeydew with other fruits like cantaloupe or watermelon for different variations of granita.
- To make a layered effect, alternate layers of honeydew granita with layers of lime granita made from a lime juice base mixed with sugar and water using the same freezing process.
- Serve with a splash of sparkling water or soda over the granita for a fizzy twist!
S’mores in a Jar
S’mores in a Jar is a fun and delicious twist on the classic campfire treat, making it easy to enjoy this delightful dessert without the need for a fire. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat for the entire family, this layered dessert captures the flavors of traditional s’mores in a convenient and visually appealing jar.
The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, not including chilling time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- Chocolate sauce (for drizzling)
- Extra mini marshmallows for topping
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened cocoa powder, and granulated sugar until mixed thoroughly.
- In small jars (or glasses), layer the dessert starting with about 2 tablespoons of the graham cracker mixture at the bottom.
- Add a layer of chocolate chips, followed by a layer of mini marshmallows.
- Spoon in a layer of whipped cream or whipped topping, filling the jar about halfway.
- Repeat the layering process (graham crackers, chocolate chips, marshmallows, and whipped cream) until the jars are filled, making certain to leave some space at the top for extra toppings.
- Finish with a final layer of whipped cream, a sprinkle of mini marshmallows, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for decoration.
- Place the jars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill before serving.
- Optionally, you can toast the marshmallows using a culinary torch or under a broiler just before serving for that true s’mores experience!
Variations & Tips:
- For a nutty twist, add crushed nuts like almonds or pecans between the layers.
- Swap out chocolate chips for peanut butter chips or caramel chips for different flavor profiles.
- If you’re short on time, pre-made whipped frosting or a chocolate mousse can be great alternatives to homemade whipped cream.
- Decorate the jars with ribbons or labels for a lovely presentation when serving at parties or as gifts.
- Confirm to adjust the jar sizes if you plan to create a large batch or smaller portions – just keep the layering consistent.
