Cool Summer Desserts That Don’t Need the Oven

When the weather gets hot, the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven. That’s where no-bake/low bake summer desserts come in—they’re cool, refreshing, and easy to make. Perfect for warm days when you still want something sweet.

These desserts include everything from chilled pies and creamy puddings to frozen treats and layered parfaits. Some of them may need a brief bake or cooking time but they’re served chilled. Many can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them great for gatherings or lazy afternoons.

They’re simple, require minimal prep, and don’t heat up your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want a quick treat, these no-bake options are a great way to enjoy summer sweets without the extra effort.

Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

Layers of strawberry ice cream, whipped topping, and crunchy cookies come together in a frozen treat that’s super simple to make. It’s perfect for warm days or casual get-togethers. Just slice, serve, and enjoy—no oven required.
Get the Recipe: Easy Strawberry Ice Cream Cake

Chocolate Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

These cookies are a fast fix for when you want something sweet and chocolatey without turning on the oven. With oats, peanut butter, and cocoa, they’re chewy and rich in every bite. They’re also great for sharing—or not.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies

Shamrock Shake

Cool and minty, this green treat is a seasonal favorite you can enjoy any time at home. It’s creamy, fresh, and just the right amount of sweet. A little whipped cream on top and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Shamrock Shake

Éclair Cake

All the goodness of an éclair without the baking fuss. Layers of graham crackers, vanilla pudding, and a rich chocolate topping chill together into a smooth and soft treat. It’s a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Éclair Cake

Homemade Kit Kat Bars

Crispy wafers and sweet chocolate coating make this version a fun DIY twist on the classic. They’re easy to assemble and even easier to enjoy. A great make-ahead snack or dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Kit Kat Bars

Strawberry Shortcake Bars

These bars are a sweet combo of crumbly shortcake and fresh berry flavor, made even better with a creamy layer. They’re perfect for summer picnics or a simple treat after dinner. Best served chilled.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Bars

No Bake Oreo Cheesecake

Smooth cheesecake filling meets crushed cookies for a rich and creamy treat with no baking required. It sets up beautifully in the fridge and slices clean for easy serving. Great for chocolate lovers who like things simple.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Oreo Cheesecake

No Bake Rainbow Snowcone Chocolate Balls

Fun, colorful, and full of chocolate, these no bake balls are great for parties or as a sweet snack. The rainbow topping adds a playful crunch. Quick to make and even quicker to eat.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Rainbow Snowcone Chocolate Balls

Malted Milk Balls

A crunchy center wrapped in a chocolate shell gives that classic texture everyone loves. They’re easy to make at home and bring a bit of nostalgia. Perfect for movie night or gifting.
Get the Recipe: Malted Milk Balls

Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars

These bars combine sweet, salty, and crunchy in a way that’s hard to resist. The peanut butter and chocolate are a tried-and-true match. Just chill, cut, and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars

Chocolate Tiramisu

A rich twist on the classic dessert, with layers of cocoa, cream, and coffee-soaked cookies. It’s smooth, balanced, and great chilled. Just the thing when you want something special without the bake time.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Tiramisu

No Bake Smores Pie

All the campfire flavors—graham, chocolate, and marshmallow—without leaving your kitchen. This pie layers it all in a cool, creamy form. No fire needed, just a fork.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Smores Pie

No Bake Chocolate Cookies

Fast, chocolatey, and with a bit of crunch, these cookies are a weeknight win. Just stir, drop, and chill—done. Keep a batch in the fridge for quick cravings.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Chocolate Cookies

Million Dollar Pie

Creamy, fruity, and a little nutty, this chilled pie feels fancy but takes minimal effort. The mix of textures and sweet pineapple flavor makes it a warm-weather favorite. Slice and serve straight from the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Pie

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Creamy cheesecake meets sweet strawberries on a crumbly base—it’s a dessert bar that checks all the boxes. Easy to cut and perfect for parties. Best enjoyed cold from the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Tiramisu Dessert

A seasonal spin with layers of spiced pumpkin cream and soft cookies. It’s rich, chilled, and great for fall gatherings. Just layer it up and let the fridge do the rest.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Tiramisu Dessert

Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

Sweet berries, creamy filling, and a salty pretzel crust—it’s a bit of everything in one pan. Each layer brings something different, and it all works together. Great as a side or a dessert.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

Pistachio Tiramisu

This version layers nutty pistachio flavor with soft cookies and creamy filling for something a little different. Light green color makes it pop on the plate. Serve cold and let the flavors blend.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Tiramisu

Oreo Ice Cream Cake

Crushed cookies, cold ice cream, and layers of whipped topping make this cake a hit with everyone. No baking means less hassle and more chill time. Keep it in the freezer for when dessert needs to be easy.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Ice Cream Cake