This collection showcases 15 delightful three-ingredient summer sweets that satisfy cravings with minimal effort. From revitalizing watermelon sorbet to creamy strawberry banana ice cream, each treat offers a burst of flavor perfect for warm days. Indulge in chocolate peanut butter energy bites or coconut cream pie cups for a tempting no-bake option. With quick and easy recipes like mango coconut popsicles and raspberry lemonade slush, there’s something for everyone. Discover more delicious ideas that elevate summer desserts.
Watermelon Sorbet

Watermelon sorbet is an invigorating and delightful frozen treat perfect for hot summer days. It’s an ideal dessert for fruit lovers and those looking for an energizing way to cool off.
This sorbet is not only easy to make, but it also requires minimal ingredients and no ice cream maker, making it a go-to recipe for spontaneous summer gatherings. With a total preparation time of around 10 minutes, plus freezing time, you can whip it up in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed and frozen
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
Cooking Steps:
- Begin by cutting the watermelon into cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2-3 hours, or until completely frozen.
- Once the watermelon is frozen, place it in a food processor. Add the lime juice and honey (or agave syrup).
- Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. Stop to scrape down the sides of the processor if necessary to guarantee an even consistency.
- Taste the sorbet, and adjust sweetness if desired by adding more honey or lime juice.
- Transfer the sorbet to an airtight container and freeze for at least another hour to firm it up.
- Serve in bowls or cones, and enjoy your invigorating watermelon sorbet!
Variations and Tips:
- For a tropical twist, add a handful of fresh mint leaves while blending.
- Substitute honey with coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener to make it suitable for different dietary needs.
- If you want to add a bit of zing, try incorporating a pinch of sea salt or a splash of fresh coconut water when blending.
- To make the sorbet easier to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- You can also blend in other frozen fruits, such as lime or strawberries, to create a mixed fruit sorbet flavor.
Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

Strawberry Banana Ice Cream is a delightful and invigorating treat perfect for hot summer days. This creamy, fruity dessert is not only easy to make but is also a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients while satisfying a sweet tooth.
With just three simple ingredients, it’s ideal for families looking for a quick and nutritious dessert option. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and the ice cream will need to freeze for an additional 2-4 hours before it’s ready to serve.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled)
- 1 cup coconut milk (or yogurt for creamier texture)
Instructions:
- Begin by peeling the bananas and cutting them into small slices. Place them in a blender or food processor.
- Add the hulled strawberries and coconut milk (or yogurt) to the blender.
- Blend the mixture on high speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary.
- Once blended, pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover the container and place it in the freezer for 2-4 hours, or until it reaches a firm consistency.
- When ready to serve, scoop out the ice cream into bowls or cones and enjoy!
Variations & Tips:
- For a twist, add a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup for extra sweetness if desired.
- Try substituting other fruits like mango or blueberries for different flavor profiles.
- For a nutty flavor, add a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter before blending.
- If you prefer a soft-serve texture, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before scooping.
- For added fun, toss in some mini chocolate chips or crushed nuts for extra texture and flavor!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bites are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
These no-bake bites are incredibly easy to whip up and are ideal for busy individuals or families on the go. In just 10 minutes of preparation time, you can create a batch of these delightful energy snacks that are packed with protein and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, natural peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup.
- Stir the ingredients together until fully mixed and a sticky dough forms. You may need to use your hands to verify it combines well.
- Once mixed, take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the energy bites onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate the energy bites for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Once set, enjoy immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Variations and Tips:
- Feel free to add extras such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
- For a superfood kick, consider mixing in chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can reduce the oat quantity slightly or add a splash of milk to the mixture.
- If you need a nut-free version, substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter.
- These bites can also be rolled in shredded coconut or cocoa powder for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Coconut Cream Pie Cups

Coconut Cream Pie Cups are a delightful and invigorating summer dessert that combines the tropical flavor of coconut with the smoothness of cream, all served in individual portions for a perfect sweet treat. Ideal for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or a simple evening indulgence, these cups are easy to whip up and are sure to impress both family and friends.
Best of all, preparation is quick, taking about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional chilling time of about an hour.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk and whipped cream, folding gently to incorporate until smooth and well blended.
- In serving cups or small glasses, layer the graham cracker crumbs at the bottom, creating an even layer.
- Spoon the coconut cream mixture over the graham cracker layer until the cups are filled to about three-quarters full.
- If desired, top with additional whipped cream and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or toasted coconut for garnish.
- Refrigerate the cups for at least one hour to set and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your invigorating Coconut Cream Pie Cups!
Variations and Tips:
- For added sweetness, consider mixing in a tablespoon of honey or sugar into the coconut cream mixture.
- You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or oatmeal cookies for a different flavor profile.
- To elevate the dessert, add a layer of fresh fruit, such as pineapple or mango, between the graham crackers and coconut cream.
- These cups can also be made ahead of time; simply cover and refrigerate them. Enjoy within two days for the best flavor and texture.
Mango Coconut Popsicles

Mango coconut popsicles are a revitalizing and delightful summer treat that combines the sweet, tropical flavors of ripe mangoes and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these popsicles are not only easy to make but also a healthier alternative to store-bought frozen treats.
They require minimal preparation and about 10 minutes of active time, followed by a few hours of freezing to set. Ideal for warm sunny days, these popsicles will transport your tastebuds to a tropical paradise!
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup coconut milk (canned or carton)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- In a blender, combine the diced mangoes and coconut milk. If you prefer a sweeter popsicle, add in the honey or maple syrup.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness if desired, adding more honey or syrup as needed.
- Pour the blended mixture into popsicle molds, leaving a small space at the top for expansion.
- Insert sticks into the molds, ensuring they are centered.
- Freeze the popsicles for at least 4-6 hours, or until solid.
- To remove the popsicles from the molds, run warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds to loosen them. Gently pull on the sticks to release the popsicles.
Variations and Tips:
- For added texture, you can mix in small chunks of mango or shredded coconut before pouring the mixture into molds.
- If you don’t have popsicle molds, you can use small cups and wooden sticks instead.
- Try blending in other fruits like pineapple or banana for a different flavor profile.
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat coconut milk; for a lighter version, use light coconut milk.
- These popsicles can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks.
Berry Yogurt Parfaits

Berry Yogurt Parfaits are a delightful and invigorating dessert perfect for summer days.
These parfaits are not only easy to prepare but also provide a nutritious twist with the combination of fruity flavors and creamy yogurt. With just a short preparation time of about 10-15 minutes, they are ideal for gatherings, picnics, or a quick sweet treat for yourself or your family.
Enjoy these layered delights as a breakfast option or a light dessert!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of your favorite berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- 2 cups of Greek yogurt or your preferred yogurt
- 1 cup of granola
Instructions:
- Start by washing the berries thoroughly under cold water. If using strawberries, hull and slice them into smaller pieces.
- In a clear glass or parfait dish, layer 1/3 of the yogurt as the base.
- Add a layer of mixed berries on top of the yogurt, distributing them evenly.
- Sprinkle a layer of granola over the berries.
- Repeat the layering process two more times – yogurt, berries, and granola – until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of berries and a sprinkle of granola on top.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving. This will help meld the flavors together.
Variations and Tips:
- For a sweeter parfait, consider adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the yogurt or over the top before serving.
- Experiment with different types of yogurt such as vanilla or coconut-flavored for additional taste.
- You can substitute granola with crushed nuts or seeds for a nutty crunch or use crushed cookies for a fun twist.
- Make it a complete meal by adding protein powder to the yogurt.
- Customize the berry combination based on what is in season or your personal preference.
- If preparing for a crowd, consider setting up a parfait bar where guests can assemble their own parfaits with a variety of toppings and yogurt flavors.
Easy Lemon Ice

Easy Lemon Ice is a rejuvenating, tart, and sweet frozen treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. This simple dessert brings a burst of citrus flavor and can be enjoyed by anyone, from kids to adults who love a zesty treat.
With only three ingredients, preparation is quick and straightforward, making it ideal for spontaneous summer gatherings or a delightful way to cool off on a sunny afternoon. The total preparation time is about 15 minutes, plus freezing time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
Cooking Steps:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Once cooled, stir in the fresh lemon juice until fully combined.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or a flat container. Place in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until frozen solid.
- After the mixture is frozen, use a fork to scrape the ice, creating a fluffy texture. Serve immediately or keep it in the freezer until ready to serve.
Variations and Tips:
- For a fruit twist, add pureed berries or other fruits to the lemon mixture before freezing.
- Experiment with different citrus juices like lime or grapefruit for unique flavors.
- Serve the lemon ice in chilled glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for an extra touch.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the frozen ice in a food processor before serving.
Nutella Fruit Dip

Nutella Fruit Dip is a luscious and indulgent treat that combines the rich, chocolate-hazelnut flavor of Nutella with the natural sweetness of fresh fruits.
Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a delightful snack for kids and adults alike, this simple recipe takes only about 5 minutes to prepare.
It’s a fantastic way to encourage everyone to enjoy their favorite fruits while indulging in a creamy dip.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Nutella
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed for desired consistency)
Instructions:
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Nutella.
2. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the two ingredients together until they are smooth and well combined.
3. Gradually add the milk while continuing to mix until you achieve your preferred dip consistency.
If you like it a bit thicker, add less milk; for a creamier dip, add more.
4. Once the mixture is smooth and creamy, transfer it to a serving bowl.
5. Serve immediately with an assortment of fresh fruits such as strawberries, bananas, apples, or any seasonal favorites for dipping.
Variations and Tips:
- Add Flavor: Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for an extra depth of taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Offer a variety of fruits with different textures, such as crunchy apples or soft bananas, to complement the dip.
- Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again.
- Kid-Friendly: Get kids involved by allowing them to choose their favorite fruits and help prepare the dip.
- Garnishing: Top the dip with crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and a decorative touch.
Cherry Cheesecake Bites

Cherry Cheesecake Bites are a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the creamy, rich flavors of cheesecake with the tart sweetness of cherries. Perfect for picnics, summer parties, or just as a quick treat at home, these bite-sized delights are an easy way to impress guests or satisfy a sweet tooth.
The preparation time for this recipe is just 15 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those who want a delicious dessert without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion out the cheesecake mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- With a small spoon or spatula, create an indentation on top of each cheesecake ball and fill it with cherry pie filling.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake bites for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Cherry Cheesecake Bites!
Variations and Tips:
- For a flavored twist, you can mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon zest into the cream cheese mixture.
- Swap out the cherry pie filling with your favorite fruit topping, such as strawberry or blueberry, for a different flavor combination.
- If you prefer a chocolate flavor, consider adding cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolate cheesecake base.
- For a more textured bite, you can sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top of the cherry filling.
- These can be made ahead of time; they store well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup oats
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and oats to the bowl, and mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold together.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough in tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Tips:
- For added flavor, you can mix in a handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
- If you prefer a softer cookie, reduce the baking time slightly; for a crunchier texture, leave them in an extra minute or two.
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to separate the cookies with parchment paper when stacking for freezing to prevent them from sticking together.
Tropical Fruit Salad

Tropical fruit salad is a revitalizing and vibrant dish that celebrates the flavors of summer with a medley of exotic fruits.
Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or as a light dessert, this delightful salad is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of the tropics. Preparation time is minimal, taking just about 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 banana, sliced
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by preparing the fruits: peel and dice the mango, and then cut the pineapple into small cubes. Finally, slice the banana into rounds.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the diced mango, pineapple, and banana until well mixed. Be careful not to mash the banana.
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle a little lime juice over the fruit salad. This not only adds zing but also helps to prevent the banana from browning.
- Serve immediately in individual bowls, or chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving for a cooler treat.
Variations and Tips:
- Add more fruit: You can easily add other tropical fruits like kiwi, papaya, or passion fruit for more flavor and texture.
- Sweeten it up: If you prefer a sweeter salad, consider drizzling a bit of honey or agave syrup over the fruits before serving.
- Herbs: Chopped fresh mint or basil can be added for an aromatic twist.
- Nuts and seeds: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts on top just before serving.
- Make it a parfait: Layer the fruit salad with yogurt and granola for a delicious breakfast or snack option!
Enjoy this easy, three-ingredient tropical fruit salad and savor the sweet taste of summer!
3-Ingredient Chocolate Mousse

Indulge in a decadent Chocolate Mousse that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly simple to make. This delightful dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and is ideal for summer gatherings or as an elegant finish to any meal.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a chilling time of at least 2 hours, you can whip up this treat with minimal effort, allowing your guests to enjoy a sophisticated dessert without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup high-quality dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Melt the Chocolate: Begin by melting the dark chocolate chips. You can do this either in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted, or by using a double boiler on the stovetop.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream and add the powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Be cautious not to overwhip.
- Combine Mixtures: Once the chocolate has melted and cooled slightly, carefully fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate. Use a spatula to gently combine until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Chill the Mousse: Spoon the chocolate mousse into serving dishes or glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, serve the mousse as is, or you can garnish with additional whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries for added flavor and presentation.
Variations & Tips:
- For a touch of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt to the whipped cream.
- You can substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter option or with white chocolate for a different flavor twist.
- If you prefer a lighter texture, you can fold in some egg whites whipped to stiff peaks instead of heavy cream. Just be sure to follow the appropriate food safety guidelines when using raw eggs.
- To keep the mousse cool during parties, serve them in small jars or cups with lids.
- This dessert can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
S’mores Bites

S’mores Bites are a delightful, no-bake treat that captures the classic flavors of the traditional campfire s’mores in a bite-sized form. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these bites are easy to prepare and take only about 15 minutes, making them a great choice for kids and adults alike who are looking for a quick and satisfying sweet.
With their combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, S’mores Bites are sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Cooking Steps:
- Mix the Graham Cracker Crumbs: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with half of the chocolate chips, mixing until well combined.
- Add Mini Marshmallows: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, ensuring an even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Form the Bites: Use your hands to form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) with the mixture. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Melt the Remaining Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining chocolate chips. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Coat the Bites: Dip each graham cracker and marshmallow ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring an even coat. Place them back on the baking sheet.
- Chill: Refrigerate the S’mores Bites for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate is firm, these bites are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Variations and Tips:
- Add Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the graham cracker mixture for a warm flavor twist.
- Nutty Touch: Incorporate crushed nuts into the mixture for added crunch.
- Different Chocolate: Experiment with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolate for unique variations.
- Personalize: Include other ingredients like peanut butter or caramel for a fun twist on traditional flavors.
- Serve Warm: For a gooey texture, you can microwave the S’mores Bites for a few seconds before serving.
Get creative, and enjoy these scrumptious S’mores Bites during your summer festivities!
Raspberry Lemonade Slush

Raspberry Lemonade Slush is a revitalizing and vibrant summer drink that combines the sweet-tart flavors of fresh raspberries and zesty lemon.
Perfect for hot days or as a fun party treat, this delightful slush is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
In just about 10 minutes, you can whip up this icy beverage that will impress your family and friends, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or just a sweet escape on a warm afternoon.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1 cup lemonade (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups ice
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the raspberries and lemonade. Blend until smooth.
- Add the ice to the blender and blend again until the mixture is slushy and well combined.
- Pour the raspberry lemonade slush into glasses and serve immediately. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a few whole raspberries or a slice of lemon on the rim of the glass.
Variations:
- For a sparkling version, substitute half of the lemonade with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda before blending.
- Add a few mint leaves for a revitalizing minty twist.
- To create a layered effect, prepare the raspberry mixture and lemonade separately, and pour them alternately into the glass.
Tips:
- If you’re using frozen raspberries, you can omit the ice for a thicker consistency.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding sugar or honey to taste if your raspberries are particularly tart.
- Blend in a banana or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamier slush.
Enjoy your deliciously chilled Raspberry Lemonade Slush!
No-Bake Oatmeal Cookies

No-Bake Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful and easy summer treat perfect for those hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. These cookies are chewy, sweet, and incredibly satisfying, making them ideal for kids and adults alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip these up in about 15 minutes, plus a bit of chilling time in the fridge. They make for a great snack, dessert, or energy boost on the go!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower)
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
Instructions:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and nut butter. Stir until the oats are well-coated with the nut butter.
- Add in the honey or maple syrup, mixing thoroughly until all the ingredients are combined and the mixture is sticky.
- Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape them into cookies, about 1 to 2 inches wide, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate the cookies for at least 30 minutes to allow them to set and firm up.
- Once set, enjoy your no-bake oatmeal cookies! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Variations & Tips:
- Experiment with different nut butters for varied flavors.
- Add-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut can enhance the sweetness and texture.
- To make these cookies vegan, opt for maple syrup and verify your nut butter doesn’t contain added sugars.
- For a protein boost, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the mixture before shaping into cookies.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, toast the oats lightly in a skillet before mixing them with the other ingredients.