Summer Desserts That Beat the Heat

Dessert just hits different in the summer. Whether you’re hosting friends in your RPM Apartment or just treating yourself after a long day, the best summer desserts are easy, refreshing, and require minimal oven time (because nobody needs more heat).

From make-ahead treats to no-bake wonders, these renter-friendly desserts are big on flavor and small on effort.

Mini Mason Jar Cheesecakes

No bake, no stress, all the creamy goodness. Just layer crushed graham crackers, cream cheese filling, and fresh summer berries in a jar. Chill and serve.

Limited-space tip: These stack perfectly in your fridge, so you can prep ahead before guests arrive.

Ice Cream Sundae Board

Think charcuterie, but make it dessert. Grab a tray and load it up with mini scoops, toppings like sprinkles, crushed cookies, sauces, and fruit.

Pro-tip: Use muffin tins to organize toppings and keep cleanup easy.

Frozen Lemonade Pie

Tart, creamy, and totally no-bake. Just mix sweetened condensed milk, whipped topping, and frozen lemonade concentrate into a graham crust and freeze.

Make it cute: Garnish with lemon slices and a sprig of mint before serving.

Boozy Pops (or Not!)

Blend watermelon, lime, and mint with a splash of tequila or rum (or skip the booze). Pour into popsicle molds and freeze.

No-Oven Berry Shortcakes

Use store-bought pound cake or biscuits, top with macerated berries and whipped cream. Easy, fast, and crowd-pleasing.

Hosting tip: Let guests build their own shortcake stacks for a DIY dessert bar.

Indoor S’mores Dip

No fire pit? No problem. Layer chocolate and marshmallows in a cast iron skillet or baking dish, broil until gooey, and serve with graham crackers.

Bonus: It smells amazing and uses your broiler for just a few minutes—no smoke alarm drama.

Ice Cream Sandwich Assembly Line

Set out cookies, brownies, ice cream flavors, and toppings. Guests make their own combos, wrap them in parchment, and pop them in the freezer for later.

Decor idea: Use a fun summer-themed tray or paper to make cleanup a breeze.

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