Picnics are a quintessential summertime activity. Whether you’re spreading a blanket in a local park, venturing on a scenic hike, or enjoying a backyard barbecue, a delicious dessert is the perfect way to end the fun.
But picnic desserts need to be special. They should be easy to transport, hold up well without refrigeration, and satisfy a variety of palates.
Fear not, fellow picnickers! This list offers 20 delectable treats, from classic crowd-pleasers to unique and delightful options, ensuring a sweet ending to your outdoor adventure.
Easy Does It: Treats for the Time-Pressed Picnicker
Brownies:
A timeless picnic staple, brownies are easy to make ahead, transport, and please a crowd. Experiment with different flavors like peanut butter swirl or fudgy centers.
Rice Krispie Treats:
A nostalgic favorite, Rice Krispie Treats are simple to prepare with just a few ingredients. Dress them up with sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or even chopped nuts.
Cookies:
From classic chocolate chip to chewy oatmeal raisin, cookies are another crowd-pleasing picnic option. Opt for heartier varieties like peanut butter or oatmeal to keep everyone feeling satisfied.
Fruit Skewers:
A refreshing and healthy option, fruit skewers are perfect for a hot summer day. Thread colorful fruits like strawberries, blueberries, melons, and grapes onto skewers for a vibrant and visually appealing treat.
Packing a Punch: Treats to Complement Your BBQ
Apple Pie:
This quintessential American dessert is a perfect picnic companion for barbecues. Opt for a hand-held version or individual mini pies for easy serving.
Strawberry Shortcake:
Light and refreshing, strawberry shortcake is a lovely contrast to smoky barbecue flavors. Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them at the picnic for a delightful dessert.
S’mores:
No picnic near a fire pit is complete without s’mores! Stock up on graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars for a classic gooey treat everyone will enjoy.
Grilled Pineapple:
For a unique and smoky twist, try grilling pineapple slices. Drizzle them with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Thinking Outside the Box: Unique and Delicious Treats
No-Bake Cheesecake Bars:
These creamy bars are surprisingly simple to make and require no baking. They’re perfect for a refreshing and light dessert on a warm day.
Mason Jar Desserts:
Mason jars are not just for canning! Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit in mason jars for individual, portable parfaits.
Peanut Butter Pretzel Bites:
A sweet and salty combination, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and disappear quickly. Dip pretzels in melted chocolate and top with chopped peanuts for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Caprese Skewers:
Elevate your fruit skewers with a touch of savory. Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves for a light and refreshing treat.
Something for Everyone: Treats with Dietary Considerations
Oatmeal Bars:
Packed with fiber and healthy fats, oatmeal bars are a great option for those seeking a more wholesome dessert. Choose from a variety of flavors and mix-ins like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
Vegan Brownies:
With a few simple ingredient swaps, you can create delicious vegan brownies that are just as satisfying as their classic counterparts. Use vegan butter and dark chocolate, and substitute flax eggs for regular eggs.
Gluten-Free Cookies:
Don’t let gluten restrictions hold you back from enjoying delicious treats! There are many delicious gluten-free cookie recipes available, so everyone can enjoy a sweet bite.
Sweet Sips: Refreshing Drinks to Complement Your Picnic Treats
Fruit-Infused Water:
Enhance plain water with a refreshing twist. Add slices of cucumber, lemon, orange, or berries for a naturally flavored and healthy drink.
Iced Tea:
Homemade iced tea is a perfect picnic beverage. Steep your favorite teabags in hot water, then add sweetener and fresh fruit slices for extra flavor.
Lemonade:
This classic summer drink is always a hit. Make it from scratch using fresh lemons, sugar, and water for a homemade touch.
Presentation Perfection: Packing Your Picnic Treats
Lining Up the Look:
Pack your desserts in containers that are easy to transport and prevent them from getting crushed. Colorful cupcake liners or small decorative boxes can add a touch of whimsy.
Utensil Essentials:
Don’t forget to pack forks, spoons, napkins, and plates for a comfortable and mess-free dessert experience.
Seasonal Twists:
- Spring: Highlight desserts that utilize seasonal fruits like lemon bars, strawberry cheesecake bites, or carrot cake muffins.
- Summer: Focus on refreshing and light options like watermelon salad with feta and mint, frozen yogurt bark with berries, or peach cobbler crumb bars.
- Fall: Include recipes that feature warm spices and autumn flavors, such as pumpkin spice cookies, apple crisp, or pecan pie bars.
- Winter: Offer comforting and decadent treats like gingerbread cookies, chocolate peppermint bark, or mini bundt cakes with spiced frosting.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Picnic Desserts:
- Pre-portioning: For easy serving and portion control, pre-cut brownies, cookies, or bars into individual pieces.
- Double Duty Ingredients: Utilize ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes. For example, leftover fruit from skewers can be added to yogurt parfaits.
- Freezing Options: Some desserts like cookies, brownies, and muffins can be prepped ahead and frozen. Take them out the night before to thaw for a quick and delicious picnic treat.
- Consider the Weather: If the weather is hot, opt for no-bake desserts or those that hold up well without refrigeration.
- Leftover Love: If you know you’ll have leftovers, choose desserts that can be easily transported back home for later enjoyment.
Fun and Festive Ideas:
- Themed Treats: Plan your desserts around a specific theme for your picnic, whether it’s a movie night under the stars, a celebration of a special occasion, or a nod to a particular culture.
- Interactive Desserts: Get creative with DIY dessert stations. Offer toppings like chocolate sauce, chopped nuts, and sprinkles for guests to personalize their treats.
- DIY Kits: Prepare individual dessert kits with pre-measured ingredients and simple instructions. This is a fun activity for kids and adults alike.
By incorporating these additional elements, you can create a comprehensive and informative blog post that caters to a variety of picnicking preferences and occasions. Remember to keep the tone light, engaging, and focused on creating a memorable and delicious outdoor experience.
