10+ Mouthwatering Summer Desserts To Serve At Your Next Cook-Out

Looking for easy summer dessert recipes that don’t require you to fire up the oven on a hot summer day? No problem! These tasty treats are easy to make, whip up quickly, and will satisfy any sweet tooth, keeping you and your guests cool all summer long. 

One of my favorite things about summertime is the desserts. Warm sunny days are perfect for outdoor grilling, and in our family, we believe a cookout isn’t complete until dessert is served.

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To me, summertime desserts should be light and refreshing, unlike the dense baked goods we crave in the fall. With an abundance of fresh seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, watermelon, and peaches, your summer dessert recipes can be taken to the next level of deliciousness.  

Some of my fondest summer memories are helping my children build their own custom s’mores while enjoying a bonfire. My oldest insists on smothering a thick layer of creamy peanut butter onto the graham crackers before adding a piece of dark chocolate and a warm, gooey marshmallow, while my youngest prefers his s’more plain and simple. 

Whether you are gathered around an evening campfire assembling s'mores or digging into an ice cream sundae, summer desserts are sure to become some of your favorite memories. To help you stay cool this summer, I am sharing 10 of the best summer dessert recipes for you to try at your next cookout or party. Many of these dessert recipes are easy enough that your kids can help make them too.

10+ Summer Dessert Recipes To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Prepare these cool ice cream treats ahead of time and serve them right after dinner. 

Ice Cream Desserts

1. Cookies & Creme Frozen Pudding Pops

This kid-friendly dessert recipe is perfect for all ages. Simple pantry staples combine to make a cool summer treat.

Mix crushed Oreo cookies, thawed Cool Whip whipped topping, and chocolate pudding together until blended. Spoon the mixture into small paper cups and insert a wooden popsicle stick or plastic spoon into the center. Freeze at least 6 hours or until firm. Remove the paper cup before serving. 

2. Ice Cream Cake

This cake is a great alternative to the traditional birthday cake if you are hosting a summer birthday party. 

Whisk together ½ cup fudge ice cream topping with 1 cup of cool whip and a package of chocolate-flavored instant pudding. Unwrap 4 ice cream sandwiches and place them side by side on a sheet of aluminum foil. Spread a layer of the chocolate pudding mixture. Repeat until you have three layers. Frost the top and sides with the remaining Cool Whip, then loosely cover with more aluminum foil. Freeze for 5 hours before serving.

3. Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

This recipe is a twist on the traditional ice cream sandwich. Keep a few extras in the freezer to serve to unexpected guests who pop in for a visit this summer. 

Spoon 2 tablespoons of softened vanilla ice cream onto one chocolate chip cookie. Place a second cookie on top of the ice cream. Roll the edges in chopped peanuts. Place them in the freezer until hardened (1-2 hours). 

4. Orange Creamsicle Layered Dessert

A refreshing and creamy dessert guaranteed to become one of your favorites.  Be warned, you will want to make it again and again!

Line a loaf pan with aluminum foil. Spread 2 cups of softened orange sherbet into the bottom of the pan. Beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup orange juice together. Sir, in 8 ounces of Cool Whip topping. Pour over the sherbet in the pan and freeze for 4 hours. To serve, invert the pan onto a plate, remove the foil, and slice into pieces. 

No-Bake Desserts

Easy no-bake pies come together quickly and are the perfect summer dessert to share.

5. Chocolate Mint Grasshopper Pie

The refreshing and classic cool mint flavor of this pie is hard for anyone to resist. 

Mix 1 ½ cups milk with one package of pistachio flavor instant pudding & pie filling until well blended. Fold in 1 ½ cups of cool whip topping. Spoon into prepared chocolate cookie pie crust, then spread 1/2c cup of cool whip over it. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the top and freeze for 2 hours until firm. 

6. Strawberry Lemonade Cheesecake Pie

Lemonade and strawberries are two popular summer flavors, and when combined in this pie, they become a real sweet treat. 

Beat 8 ounces of cream cheese with ½ cup thawed frozen lemonade concentrate. Whisk 2 cups of Cool Whip into the lemonade mixture. Spoon the lemonade mixture into a prepared graham cracker pie crust. Refrigerate for 4 hours until firm. Before serving, spread 1 cup of cool whip over the pie, then top with 1 ½ cups of fresh sliced strawberries.

Delicious Non-Traditional Summer Desserts

7. Gourmet S’mores

Let’s crank this dessert up a notch from the classic graham cracker + chocolate + marshmallow to a more edgy gourmet version. Try a strawberry shortcake s’more by using sugar cookies + white chocolate + sliced fresh strawberries + marshmallow. These delicious gourmet s’more combinations are addicting!

8. Pineapple Angel Lush Cake 

Tropical and light, this dessert will satisfy your sweet tooth on a hot summer day. 

Mix 1 package of dry vanilla instant pudding & pie filling with 1 can of crushed pineapple, undrained. Fold in 1 cup of cool whip topping. Cut a prepared round angel food cake horizontally into three layers. Place the bottom layer on a cake plate, then spread with one-third of the pineapple mixture. Repeat the layers two more times. Refrigerate for one hour. Before serving, top with fresh sliced strawberries and blueberries. 

9. Berry Cheesecake Parfaits

You worked hard to get your body swimsuit ready, but you still crave something sweet now and then. This dessert is a good compromise between healthy and sweet, so you can enjoy every bite. 

Add 1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt, ¼ cup whipping cream, 2 teaspoons lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract to the bowl of a stand mixer. Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy. Divide yogurt mixture evenly into 4 parfait glasses, top with fresh sliced fruit, and drizzle with honey.

10. Fruit Granita

A traditional Italian dessert, with a texture similar to a snow cone, granitas are loaded with fruity summer flavors that are easy to make and will keep you cool and refreshed on a hot summer day. 

For each of the flavored granitas below, add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a shallow baking pan, cover it with foil, and freeze for one hour. Scrape the mixture with a fork to make individual ice crystals and freeze for an additional 2 hours. Scrape the granita again, then break it up into chunks to serve. 

Watermelon Granita:

• 4 cups cubed watermelon chunks 

• ⅓ cup lime juice 

• ⅓ cup sugar 

Blueberry Granita:

• 4 cups fresh blueberries

• ½ cup grape juice 

• ⅓ cup sugar

 Lemon Granita:

• 4 cups water

• ⅔ cup lemon juice

• zest from one lemon

• ¾ cup sugar

Strawberry Granita:

• 4 cups sliced strawberries

• ⅓ cup sugar

• 1 cup water

• ½ teaspoon lemon juice

The best summer desserts are those you share with friends and family. Whether you are grilling out at a backyard cookout or gathering around a bonfire, make your summer memorable and extra special with one of these tasty dessert recipes.

Helping Kids Understand Their Emotions: The Power of Journaling

Understanding and expressing emotions can be a challenge for anyone — but for children, it’s often like learning a new language. They may feel big emotions like anger, sadness, fear, or excitement, but lack the vocabulary or confidence to talk about them. That’s where journaling comes in. A simple, age-appropriate journal can be a powerful tool to help children explore, understand, and regulate their emotions in a healthy way.

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Why Emotions Matter

Emotions are at the heart of how we experience the world. For children, learning how to recognize and name their feelings is an essential part of emotional intelligence — a skill that influences everything from friendships to learning to resilience. When kids don't understand their emotions, they can become overwhelmed, anxious, or act out in frustration.

Helping children identify what they feel and why they feel it sets a strong foundation for empathy, self-awareness, and effective communication.

What Is a Feelings Journal?

A feelings journal is a dedicated space — whether it’s a notebook, a printable worksheet, or a digital app — where kids can write or draw about what they’re experiencing. It's a nonjudgmental outlet where they can reflect, process, and begin to understand the many emotions that come with growing up.

For younger kids, this might include:

• Drawing pictures of how they feel

• Using emojis or stickers to label moods

• Completing sentence starters like “Today I felt ___ because ___”

Older kids might write more detailed entries or answer guided prompts such as:

• “What happened today that made you feel proud?”

• “What’s something that made you feel nervous recently?”

• “If your feelings were a weather forecast, what would they be today?”

Benefits of Journaling for Children

1. Emotional Awareness
   Journaling encourages kids to pause and think about what they're feeling. This reflection helps them better understand their emotional patterns over time.

2. Stress Relief
   Writing or drawing can be a calming activity, especially during emotionally intense moments. Journaling gives kids a sense of control and helps reduce anxiety.

3. Problem Solving
   By reflecting on their experiences, children begin to see solutions or understand situations in new ways. Writing it down can help untangle thoughts and find perspective.

4. Communication Skills
   Journaling helps children find the words for their emotions, making it easier to talk to parents, teachers, or friends about how they feel.

5. Building a Healthy Habit
   Creating a daily or weekly journaling routine can become a lifelong tool for emotional wellness.

How to Get Started

• Choose the Right Format: Let your child pick a journal that excites them — whether it’s a notebook with their favorite characters, an emotions journal for kids, a journal that focuses on gratitude, a guided prompt journal or a simple 5 minute daily reflection journal. Some kids may prefer apps or voice memos instead of traditional writing.

• Create a Safe Space: Make sure your child knows their journal is private (unless they want to share). Feeling safe is crucial for honest self-expression.

• Set the Mood: Journaling works best when it's a low-pressure activity. Encourage your child to write whenever they feel like it, or suggest a gentle routine (like before bed).

• Use Prompts: If they’re unsure where to start, offer fun and reflective prompts like:

  • “What color was your day today, and why?”

  • “Who made you feel happy today?”

  • “What would you change about today if you could?”

• Model the Behavior: Journaling isn’t just for kids. If your child sees you reflecting or writing down your own thoughts, they’ll understand that it’s a healthy and normal habit.

Emotions Journal via Amazon

Helping children process their emotions doesn’t mean shielding them from tough feelings — it means giving them tools to navigate those feelings with confidence and care. A feelings journal is a gentle, powerful way to help kids understand that all emotions are valid, temporary, and worth exploring.

By offering this small but meaningful practice, we empower kids to be emotionally strong, self-aware, and better prepared for life’s ups and downs.

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Want to get started? Download a free printable feelings journal template or explore age-appropriate journals designed for emotional growth. Let’s give kids the space they need to feel, reflect, and thrive.

via: Amazon

Simple DIY Framed Seashell Art Tutorial

Our family recently vacationed with friends in the Florida Panhandle. Our condo was right on the beach, and every morning, I walked along the beach with a bucket collecting shells and sand dollars. Most of the shells I collected were broken pieces, but they were still so beautiful, even though they were just partial shells. I wasn't sure at the time what I was going to do with my bucket full of broken shell pieces, but during the long car ride home, I came up with a plan. 

My plan was inspired by my previous seashell art wall hanging I made from the shells I collected in Hilton Head a few years ago. Check out my full tutorial on how I made this gorgeous seashell wall hanging. This time, I wanted to make several smaller pieces to give to each of the families we vacationed with as souvenirs of this trip. I basically used many of the same steps from the previous tutorial, but added some modifications to create a brand new piece of art.

Follow along with me as I explain to you how I made these framed seashell art pictures.

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HOW TO MAKE A SIMPLE DIY FRAMED SEASHELL PICTURE

SUPPLIES

• Wood panels with solid wood center or a piece of wood cut to the desired size (8" x 10")
• 1" x 4" scrap wood (for the mounting block)
• Glue (see recommendations below)
• Seashells
• Picture frame mounting kit 
• Paint - indoor house paint or acrylic paint

PREPARE THE WOOD PICTURE FRAME:

Years ago, I got a bunch of white wooden picture frames that have a solid wood center. For this project, I started by painting over center panel with some interior house paint I had on hand to create a solid color background for the shells. 

If you have trouble finding a solid wood picture frame, you can either build your own or use just a square or rectangular piece of wood cut to the size you want. 

CUT WOOD "MOUNTING BLOCK"

Use a small piece of scrap wood cut to a size you think looks best when centered in the middle of your picture frame or wood back. I used a 1"x 4" and cut it down into a slightly rectangular shape of approximately 3" x 4".  I call this small piece the mounting block

Paint the small piece of wood and let it completely dry. I painted the wood to match the paint color I used for the center of the frame, but you could use a bold background color, too. Most of the wood will be covered up, but small pops of color would look nice too.

If you are using a cut piece of wood rather than a picture frame, make sure to add mounting hardware to the back of the wood so you can hang it up.

ARRANGE THE SEASHELLS 

This step is where you get to be as creative as you want! You have endless options on how to display your shells, whether it is by color or size, or type of shell. I like a blend of shells with at least one or two large shell pieces as the main focal point. Lay the shells out on the mounting block, adding any smaller-sized shells to fill in any gaps. Make sure to take a picture before you start gluing it down, in case the shells get bumped!

APPLY THE GLUE

It is important to use a strong, long-lasting glue for this project. Here are my recommendations to choose from for this project:

• Gorilla Glue
• Wellbond Universal Adhesive
• E6000 Clear Craft Industrial Strength 

There are two methods you could use to glue the shells to the mounting block: 

Method #1 

• Remove the shells from the mounting block
• Apply glue to the surface of the shell that will be touching the mounting block 
• Then, place the shells back on the wood mounting piece using the picture you took as a reference for the location of each shell

Method #2

• Leave the shells on the mounting block, arranged the way you like it
• Pick up one shell at a time, apply glue, then press back down onto the wood mounting block
• Fill in open spots with additional shells as needed

Make sure to let the glued-on shells dry completely before the next step.

ATTACH THE MOUNTING BLOCK

Once the shells on the mounting block are dry, spread a generous amount of glue on the back side of the mounting block. Center it onto your solid wood frame (or cut and painted piece of wood), gently press down, and then allow the glue to dry completely. 

I really like how these framed seashell pictures turned out! Before I gifted them to our friends, I wrote the date and location of our trip on the back so they would always remember where the shells came from. These beautiful pieces are one of a kind and full of great memories.

Top 5 Table Decorations For A Graduation Open House

Graduation season is here, and it’s time to celebrate your grad’s big achievement in style! Whether you're hosting a backyard bash, an indoor open house, or a mix of both, table decorations help set the mood and add a personalized touch. Not sure where to start? Here are our top 5 table decoration ideas that are sure to impress guests and make your graduate feel extra special.

Top 5 Table Decoration Ideas For A Graduation Open House Party

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1. Photo Centerpieces That Tell a Story

Nothing says "look how far they've come!" like a walk down memory lane. Use framed photos or small photo clip stands to display pictures from kindergarten to senior year. Bonus points for adding fun captions or inside jokes. Looking for a budget-friendly option - check out how I made these simple rock & wire picture holders! Find the full tutorial HERE. 

Pro tip: Arrange them around a vase of flowers or a mason jar of fairy lights for a cozy, nostalgic vibe.

2. Customized Confetti & Table Scatter

Celebrate in detail with custom confetti shaped like graduation caps, the graduation year, or even the grad's name. Mix in some school colors to match the theme and sprinkle it across each table.

Quick DIY: Punch out confetti using a craft punch and colored cardstock, or order personalized confetti from Etsy or local party stores.

3. Mini Diploma Napkin Wraps

Take your napkin game up a notch by rolling utensils inside colorful napkins and tying them with a ribbon to look like mini diplomas. It’s cute, easy, and totally on theme!

Color match: Use ribbon in the graduate’s school colors to keep it cohesive.

4. Highlight Your Favorite Bible Verse

Set small Bibles on a table with highlighters and pens, asking guests to highlight and sign their name next to their favorite Bible verse. It becomes a meaningful keepsakes they’ll treasure long after the party.

Suggested sign: “Highlight Your Favorite Bible Verse to Share With the Graduate!”

5. Themed Table Runners or Printable Placemats

Jazz up basic tables with printed table runners that showcase the graduate's achievements, interests, or future plans. You can also create custom placemats with fun quizzes (“How well do you know the grad?”). If you really want to keep it simple and interactive, cover each table with a sheet of craft paper, fill up a mason jar with colored pencils, and leave simple instructions asking guests to doodle encouraging messages, pictures, and memories for the graduate.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Favors!

A small takeaway at each seat — like a mini picture of the grad, candy bag, or homemade bookmarks— adds a nice final touch and leaves guests with something to remember the celebration by.

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Whether you're going all-out or keeping it simple, the right table decor can really tie your graduation open house together. Keep it personal, playful, and full of personality — just like your grad. 

Got a favorite graduation table decor idea? Drop it in the comments!

 

 

Top 5 Easter Basket Ideas For A Memorable Celebration

Easter is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for creative and fun ways to fill your Easter baskets, you’re in the right place!

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5 Amazing Easter Basket Ideas  

Whether you’re crafting a basket for kids, adults, or even pets, there’s no shortage of ideas to make this holiday extra special. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up five Easter basket ideas that will delight your loved ones and add a little extra fun.

1. Classic Candy Craze Basket

You can never go wrong with the classics! An Easter basket filled with an assortment of candies is always a crowd-pleaser. Think chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, pastel-colored M&Ms, and individually wrapped caramel eggs. You can even add in some novelty candy shaped like Easter symbols, such as crosses, chicks, or flowers. For a twist, include a mix of milk, dark, and white chocolate to cater to every sweet tooth.

Tip: Add a few Easter-themed treats like chocolate-covered pretzels or bunny-shaped cookies for extra flair.

2. Crafty and Creative Basket for Kids

If you’re putting together a basket for a child, you can combine fun activities with festive treats! Look for small craft kits, coloring books, crayons, or Easter-themed puzzles. Add some playdough or even a set of DIY Easter egg decorating supplies for hours of fun. You could also include a plush bunny or chick to make the basket even more cuddly.

Tip: Consider a “build your own bunny” craft to make your own stuffed animal bunny. Here is an EASY NO-SEW SOCK BUNNY TUTORIAL your kids will love making so they can enjoy their new furry friend! 

 

3. Gourmet Easter Basket for Adults

Easter isn’t just for kids—adults can enjoy their own basket too! A gourmet Easter basket filled with artisanal chocolates, premium coffee beans, flavored teas, or even small bottles of craft liquor can bring a sophisticated touch to the celebration. You could also add in some high-quality snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or gourmet popcorn for a little treat to savor. If the person you're gifting enjoys cooking, consider including a set of unique spices or an herb garden starter kit.

Tip: Add a personalized touch by choosing items that match the recipient’s favorite flavors, such as dark chocolate for a chocolate lover or a bottle of rosé for wine enthusiasts.

4. Easter Basket for Pet Lovers

Don’t forget about the fur babies! Many people love to spoil their pets on Easter too. For dogs, you can create a basket with dog-friendly treats like gourmet biscuits, chew toys, or even a personalized collar. For cats, consider including catnip-infused toys, treats, and even a cozy pet bed. You can even throw in a cute Easter-themed bandana for that extra festive touch.

Tip: Include a small Easter basket just for the pet owner, with something like a pet photo frame or personalized pet keychain to show off their love for their furry friend.

5. Outdoor Adventure Basket for Active Folks

For those who love the outdoors, consider creating an Easter basket with items geared toward adventure and exploration. Think along the lines of a new water bottle, hiking socks, portable snacks, or a multi-tool for their next camping trip. You could also add in a pair of sunglasses, sunscreen, or a cozy beanie for a thoughtful, practical gift. If they’re into gardening, include some small potted plants or garden seeds to start their own little outdoor haven.

Tip: For an extra surprise, include an Easter-themed scavenger hunt or an activity book that challenges them to get out and explore!

Easter baskets are a wonderful way to celebrate the season, and with a little creativity, you can craft something truly special for anyone in your life. Whether you're opting for traditional sweets, fun activities, or thoughtful gifts, the possibilities are endless. With these five ideas in mind, you're sure to create an Easter basket that will leave everyone smiling!

Happy Easter and happy basket-making!