17 Reasons Why Ice Cream Is Overrated This Summer (And What to Eat Instead) (2024)

This summer, it's time to rethink your go-to dessert. Ice cream might be the classic choice, but there are plenty of other treats that can be just as satisfying. From fruity delights to rich chocolate options, these recipes offer a refreshing change. Say goodbye to the usual scoops and try something new that will keep you cool and satisfied all season long.

Basil Peach Cobbler

Basil Peach Cobbler is a delightful blend of peaches and basil, offering a unique twist on a classic dessert. This cobbler takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake, making it a quick option for a summer treat. The combination of sweet peaches and aromatic basil creates a refreshing and unexpected flavor profile. It's a perfect dessert to serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Get the Recipe: Basil Peach Cobbler

Pomegranate & Rose Vegan Malabi

Pomegranate & Rose Vegan Malabi is a dairy-free, Middle Eastern-inspired dessert that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients include coconut milk, rose water, and pomegranate arils, resulting in a creamy and fragrant dish. The rose water adds a subtle floral note, while the pomegranate provides a burst of tartness. It's a light and refreshing alternative to heavy ice cream.
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Heavenly Chocolate Tart with Almonds

The Heavenly Chocolate Tart with Almonds is a rich, decadent dessert that requires about 30 minutes to prepare and bake. Made with dark chocolate and almond flour, this tart offers a deep, satisfying chocolate flavor with a nutty undertone. The texture is smooth and velvety, making it a luxurious treat for chocolate lovers. It's perfect for a special occasion or a simple indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Heavenly Chocolate Tart with Almonds

Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Pumpkin Pecan Pie combines the best of both worlds with its creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy pecan topping. This pie takes about an hour to prepare and bake, making it a great option for holiday gatherings. The main ingredients include pumpkin puree, pecans, and a blend of warm spices. The result is a comforting and flavorful dessert that's perfect for autumn.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Chocolate Raspberry Tart

The Chocolate Raspberry Tart is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries, taking about 40 minutes to prepare and bake. This dessert features a chocolate crust filled with a smooth chocolate ganache and topped with fresh raspberries. The tartness of the raspberries balances the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a harmonious flavor profile. It's an elegant dessert that's sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Raspberry Tart

No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake

No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake is a quick and easy dessert that takes just 20 minutes to prepare. Made with dark chocolate, pistachios, and a hint of sea salt, this cake offers a rich and nutty flavor. The no-bake aspect makes it perfect for hot summer days when you don't want to turn on the oven. It's a simple yet sophisticated treat that satisfies chocolate cravings.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake

French Chocolate Orange Tart

French Chocolate Orange Tart is a sophisticated dessert that takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake. The main ingredients include dark chocolate, orange zest, and a buttery crust, resulting in a rich and citrusy flavor. The combination of chocolate and orange is classic and timeless, offering a delightful contrast of sweet and tangy. It's an elegant dessert that's perfect for entertaining.
Get the Recipe: French Chocolate Orange Tart

Savory Galette with Caramelized Onions and Pumpkin

Savory Galette with Caramelized Onions and Pumpkin is a flavorful dish that takes about an hour to prepare and bake. The main ingredients include caramelized onions, roasted pumpkin, and a flaky pastry crust. The sweet onions and earthy pumpkin create a harmonious blend of flavors. It's a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course.
Get the Recipe: Savory Galette with Caramelized Onions and Pumpkin

Raspberry Mini Pavlovas

Raspberry Mini Pavlovas are light and airy desserts that take about 30 minutes to prepare and bake. Made with meringue, fresh raspberries, and a dollop of whipped cream, these pavlovas offer a delicate and refreshing flavor. The crisp meringue shell contrasts beautifully with the soft, juicy raspberries. They are perfect for a light summer dessert.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Mini Pavlovas

Clean and Healthy Apple Crisp Recipe

The Clean and Healthy Apple Crisp Recipe is a wholesome dessert that takes about 40 minutes to prepare and bake. Made with fresh apples, oats, and a touch of cinnamon, this crisp offers a comforting and nutritious option. The apples become tender and juicy, while the oat topping adds a satisfying crunch. It's a guilt-free treat that's perfect for any time of the year.
Get the Recipe: Clean and Healthy Apple Crisp Recipe

Colombian Fruit Salad

Colombian Fruit Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that takes just 15 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients include a variety of tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and papaya, mixed with a touch of lime juice. The result is a colorful and juicy medley that's perfect for hot summer days. It's a healthy and delicious alternative to ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Fruit Salad

Cherry Cobbler

Cherry Cobbler is a classic dessert that takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake. Made with fresh or frozen cherries and a simple biscuit topping, this cobbler offers a sweet and tangy flavor. The cherries become soft and syrupy, while the biscuit topping turns golden and crisp. It's a comforting dessert that's perfect for cherry season.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cobbler

Brazilian Passion Fruit Mousse

Brazilian Passion Fruit Mousse is a light and tropical dessert that takes about 20 minutes to prepare. The main ingredients include passion fruit pulp, condensed milk, and heavy cream, resulting in a creamy and tangy flavor. The mousse is airy and refreshing, making it ideal for warm weather. It's a delightful treat that transports you to the tropics.
Get the Recipe: Brazilian Passion Fruit Mousse

Pecan Pie with Maple Syrup and Maple Dulce de Leche Cream

Pecan Pie with Maple Syrup and Maple Dulce de Leche Cream is a decadent dessert that takes about an hour to prepare and bake. The main ingredients include pecans, maple syrup, and a rich dulce de leche cream, resulting in a sweet and nutty flavor. The combination of pecans and maple syrup is classic, while the dulce de leche adds a luxurious touch. It's a perfect dessert for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie with Maple Syrup and Maple Dulce de Leche Cream

Raspberry Coeur a la Creme

Raspberry Coeur a la Creme is a creamy and elegant dessert that takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus chilling time. Made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and fresh raspberries, this dessert offers a rich and tangy flavor. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the tart raspberries. It's a sophisticated treat that's perfect for a romantic dinner.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Coeur a la Creme

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that takes about an hour to prepare and bake. The main ingredients include fresh apples, cinnamon, and a flaky pie crust, resulting in a classic and comforting flavor. The lattice top adds a beautiful and rustic touch to the pie. It's a perfect dessert for family gatherings and special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Sticky Date Pudding with Pinot Noir

Sticky Date Pudding with Pinot Noir is a rich and indulgent dessert that takes about an hour to prepare and bake. The main ingredients include dates, brown sugar, and a splash of Pinot Noir, resulting in a deep, caramel-like flavor. The pudding is moist and sticky, with a hint of sophistication from the wine. It's a perfect dessert for a cozy evening.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Date Pudding with Pinot Noir