As summer heats up, there’s nothing more delightful than indulging in cakes that are as light and refreshing as the season itself. Embrace the flavors of summer with recipes that feature juicy seasonal fruits and even some no-bake options to keep things cool. These cakes, some adorned with vibrant berries and beautiful floral decorations, are perfect for any sunny day gathering, offering a sweet and satisfying treat without weighing you down. Get ready to explore a collection of desserts that will complete your summer gatherings and coffee breaks.
Raspberry and Hazelnut Ricotta Cake
Experience the essence of summer with this Raspberry and Hazelnut Ricotta Cake, a light and airy delight perfect for warm days. The cake combines finely ground raw Oregon Hazelnuts, creamy ricotta cheese, and fresh raspberries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors with a hint of lemon zest and vanilla. Garnished with whipped cream and chopped roasted hazelnuts, this cake is a refreshing and elegant treat for any summer occasion.
Cranberry Rhubarb Pie
Looking for a dessert that perfectly balances tart and sweet, while capturing the essence of summer? The Cranberry Rhubarb Pie combines the vibrant flavors of fresh U.S. Cranberries and rhubarb with a perfectly golden, flaky crust. The result is a beautiful lattice crusted pie with a filling that bursts with tangy goodness.
This pie is ideal for those who enjoy a refreshing tartness in their desserts, allowing the natural flavors of the cranberries and rhubarb to shine through. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience.
A Simple Strawberry Shortcake Orange Blossom Stack
Inspired by the iconic Strawberry Shortcake served at Boccali’s restaurant in Ojai, California, this dessert brings a refreshing twist with a hint of California citrus. Since 1986, the Boccali family has delighted guests with their decadent mile-high Strawberry Shortcake, earning rave reviews. Developed by Meg van der Kruik, this take on their classic recipe adds bright orange blossom flavors to every delicious layer.
Each bite combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the aromatic citrus notes. For an added touch of sophistication, pair this dessert with a glass of sparkling rosé or Muscat/Moscato. Whether enjoyed at a casual gathering or a special celebration, this Strawberry Shortcake Orange Blossom Stack is sure to impress and delight your guests.
No-Bake Almond Cheesecake
Beat the heat with this refreshing No-Bake Almond Cheesecake, the dessert that proves you can enjoy a cake without having to turn on the oven! This delightful cheesecake is easy to make, requires minimal skill and no oven – not even for the crust. Plus, it’s dairy free. Enjoy a light, creamy almond-flavored filling paired with a perfectly complementary no-bake crust, making it the ultimate hassle-free dessert.
No-Bake Vegan Avocado Raisin Cheesecake
Can’t get enough of no-bake cheesecakes? Andrea Schirmaier-Huber’s Avocado Raisin Cheesecake is a game-changer – vegan, no sugar, and no baking required. It features a creamy, smooth avocado filling, naturally sweetened with California Raisins and a hint of cocoa, all atop a nutty, crumbly almond and coconut crust. The vibrant green color and rich, velvety texture make it a visual and culinary delight, bringing a refreshing, healthy twist to your dessert table.
Tart Cherry Icebox Cake
Who said cake has to be baked when it can be frozen? This no-bake dessert is the coolest of them all, courtesy of recipe developer Chelsea Lords. Layers of graham crackers are paired with a luscious filling made from Montmorency Tart Cherries, adding a refreshing tang to each bite. The cherries are simmered with sugar and thickened to create a rich, flavorful sauce that infuses the creamy whipped mixture, enhanced with vanilla bean paste and cheesecake pudding mix. Topped with chocolate curls, this easy and delightful cake is ideal for hot days and will have everyone grateful for a cake that got an upgrade to ice cream status.
California Prune Upside Down Cake with Toffee and Sesame
Bronwen Wyatt of Bayou Saint Cake brings you a show-stopping summer dessert: the California Prune Upside Down Cake with Toffee and Sesame. This decadent cake features a deeply flavorful California Prune-toffee-sesame layer atop a rich and moist brown butter cake. Garnished with edible flowers and whipped cream, this floral upside down cake is the perfect centerpiece at a summer gathering or garden party.
