17 Desserts That Are Perfect for BBQs and Cookouts

When you’re planning a BBQ or cookout, don’t forget about the desserts. It’s great to pick treats that are easy to handle and can handle being outside for a while. Choose desserts that are refreshing for a hot day or beloved classics that never fail to please a crowd. With 17 desserts that are perfect for BBQs and cookouts, you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy!

Banana-Buttermilk Cake on a platter.
Buttermilk Banana Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Lemon Goldies

Three square pieces of lemon goldies on a white plate.
Lemon Goldies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

An option that beats the heat, these bar cookies are like sunshine in a bite. Lemon Goldies are soft in the middle with a nice chew. Just the thing when chocolate’s too heavy but you still want a sweet treat. They’re a hit at BBQs for their ease and refreshing twist.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Goldies

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These cookies look as good as they taste with their crinkle tops and white chocolate twist. White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a sweet change from the norm. They’re soft, creamy, and a treat for the eyes, too. A festive choice for BBQs and sure to grab attention.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Pecan Pie Brownies

Three pieces of pecan pie brownies on slate coasters.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Combine your love for nuts and chocolate with one scrumptious square. Pecan Pie Brownies are rich and eye-catching, perfect for indulgent dessert lovers. They’re a knockout at BBQs, where pie meets fudge in a delicious dance. A special treat for cookouts that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Zucchini Cookies on a parchment-lined tray.
Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sneak some veggies into your dessert with these moist and flavorful cookies. Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans are a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste. They’re unique and make a great talking point at cookouts. Plus, they’re just the thing when you’re after a dessert that’s not too sweet.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Lemon Cake Pops

Lemon cake pops on a white plate.
Lemon Cake Pops. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Everyone gets a kick out of these treats on a stick at cookouts. Lemon Cake Pops are fun to eat and super portable for socializing. They’re the right mix of sweet and lemony flavor. Plus, they’re a snap to pass around at your next BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cake Pops

Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Two Salted Dark Chocolate cookies on a plate next to flowers.
Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These aren’t your average cookies; they have a dark chocolate base sprinkled with sea salt. Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies are hit for their rich flavor without being too sweet. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for sophistication at their BBQ. They balance sweet and salty in a way everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Apple Fritter Bread

Three slices of apple fritter bread on a white plate.
Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Think of slicing into moist bread loaded with apples at your next outdoor meal. Apple Fritter Bread is perfectly sweet with a hint of cinnamon. It’s like a cozy slice of apple pie in bread form, great for sharing. Always a hit for a more laid-back dessert at BBQs.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

A top-down shot of Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies on a white plate.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These cookies are all about the refreshing zing of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds. Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies are a light option that pairs well with any BBQ spread. They’re a pleasant switch from dense, heavy desserts. And they’re as easy to love as they are to serve at outdoor events.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Mini Hummingbird Cakes

Three mini hummingbird cake on a white plate.
Mini Hummingbird Cakes. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Grab a taste of the tropics with these mini treats, complete with banana and pineapple. Mini Hummingbird Cakes are a sweet standout at any cookout. They’re small enough to try without skipping other desserts. And they’re a breeze to serve at any outdoor gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mini Hummingbird Cakes

Chocolate Overload Cookies

Chocolate overload cookies on a white plate.
Chocolate Overload Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For the serious chocolate lover, this one’s brimming with chips in a rich, fudgy base. Chocolate Overload Cookies are dense, chewy, and decadently satisfying. A bold choice for dessert tables at BBQs. They’re so chocolatey that they’re practically a cookout essential.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies

Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Four glasses of raspberry cheesecake parfait.
Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These are a crowd favorite at BBQs for their cool, creamy layers mixed with tart raspberry. Perfect for outdoor gatherings, each parfait is a mini, portable cheesecake. Great for when you crave something rich yet refreshing. Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits are as delicious as they are easy to grab and go.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Butter Scones

Two butter scones on a plate with a cup of tea on a marble surface.
Butter Scones. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These are a light option when you want a break from the usual BBQ fare. Butter Scones are versatile; top them with jam or cream. They’re a simple classic that’s ready to be paired with any topping. Always welcomed at cookouts for their ease and elegance.
Get the Recipe: Butter Scones

Double Chocolate Brookies

A plate of chocolate cookies with walnuts and chocolate pieces on the side.
Double Chocolate Brookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Here’s where a chocolate chip cookie crashes into a brownie. Double Chocolate Brookies are a dream for chocoholics at any outdoor event. Soft and chewy, with a chocolate punch, they’re bound to disappear fast. Great for sharing, because one’s never enough at your BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who doesn’t love a twist on a classic? These Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls combine two favorites into one. They’re perfect for BBQs and cookouts, easy to share, and enjoyable outdoors. Grab one of these and watch them disappear fast at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Two bowls of salted caramel snickerdoodle cookies on a plate with lavender flowers on the table.
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A classic cookie but better, thanks to rich caramel and nutty brown butter. Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles are a perfect blend of sweet and salty. Soft, chewy, and they stand out at any gathering. Ideal for cookouts, they’re the upgraded version of a familiar favorite.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Buttermilk Banana Cake

Banana-Buttermilk Cake on a platter.
Buttermilk Banana Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This is a tender-crumbed cake that’s all about comfort and subtle sweetness. Buttermilk Banana Cake is a moist treat for any dessert table. It’s simple and full-flavored, without needing any fancy toppings. A sure bet for family cookouts where taste trumps fuss.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Banana Cake

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies on a slate.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Go for these when you want something chewy, spiced, and comforting. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are always a solid pick for a homey touch to your dessert spread. They’re hearty and pair perfectly with any BBQ dish. A classic cookie that’s appreciated by everyone at outdoor feasts.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

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