Now that Memorial Day has come and gone, cookout season is officially upon us. From team gatherings to family reunions to holidays, there is no lack of opportunity to either host or attend events during the summer months. Here are recipes for three tried (and tried and tried) and true desserts that are perfect for taking to cookouts or serving at your own!
Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle
- 1 quart fresh strawberries
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 pound cream cheese, softened
- 1 (12 ounce) container Cool Whip (or any equivalent)
- 1 (10 ounce) pound cake loaf, cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 Hershey’s bar, grated
Wash and slice strawberries. In a large bowl, add strawberries and 1/2 cup of the sugar, stir well and set aside. In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese and remaining 1/2 cup of sugar until blended. Fold in the Cool Whip. Place 1/2 of the pound cake in a trifle or serving bowl. Top with 1/2 of the strawberries, 1/3 of the cream cheese mixture, and 1/3 of the grated chocolate. Repeat the layers. Top with the remaining cream cheese and garnish with the remaining grated chocolate. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.
Apple Snickers Salad
- 6 small Granny Smith apples, cored and chopped
- 6 Snickers Bars, cut into bite-sized pieces (refrigerate before hand)
- 1 (5.1 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 (12 ounce) container Cool Whip (or any equivalent)
- caramel sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix and milk. Fold in Cool Whip. Fold in chopped apples and Snickers. Drizzle caramel sauce on top. Refrigerate until served.
Dairy Delicious Dip
- 1 (8 ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup
In a small mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Beat until creamy and smooth. Refrigerate until served. Serve with fresh fruit. (Strawberries and apple slices are my favorites!)
No matter how big the gathering, these three recipes are easily doubled (or tripled!) to accommodate any number of guests!
What are your favorite summer desserts? We’d love to know in the comments below!
