Summer is a time for fun in the sun, outdoor parties, and delicious treats. And who better to turn to for some tasty tips than Today Show host and registered dietitian nutritionist Joy Bauer? Joy has shared some of her favorite summer dessert and drink recipes that are sure to take your summer entertaining to the next level.
One of Joy’s biggest fan favorites is her ‘gooey comfort food fest’ known as banana s’mores boats. To make this delectable treat, simply slice a banana lengthwise while keeping the skin on to create a boat. Fill the banana with mini marshmallows, strawberry slices, and dark chocolate chips, then wrap it in foil and grill it, roast it over a campfire, or bake it in the oven or air fryer. The result is a mouthwatering mess of gooey goodness that you can enjoy straight out of the banana bowl.
For a refreshing and easy summer dessert, Joy recommends making shaved pineapple ice. Simply cut rock-solid pineapple spheres and freeze them. When you’re ready to enjoy, de-freeze a sphere, grate it with a microplane over a bowl, and you’ll have a mound of fluffy ice crystals that melt in your mouth.
If you’re looking for a fruity treat that’s both fun and fuss-free, try Joy’s mini watermelon cakes. Cut round chunks out of a watermelon, top them with whipped cream, berries, or granola, and enjoy. According to Joy, a little aerated whipped cream can elevate any dessert.
For a kid-friendly option, consider making frozen fruit kabobs. Line up chunks of watermelon, honeydew, grapes, and strawberries on skewers and freeze them for a fun and refreshing treat by the pool.
Joy’s pineapple à la mode is another delicious dessert that’s perfect for summer. Grill pineapple spheres, spray them with cooking spray, and serve them with frozen yogurt or vanilla ice cream. Top it off with a spoonful of peanut butter and crushed peanuts for a decadent finish.
If you’re looking for a simple and refreshing summer treat, try Joy’s parchment fruit. Dip frozen berries in berry-flavored Greek yogurt sweetened with monk fruit or Stevia, lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze them for a refreshing snack.
Joy’s frozen yogurt bark is another hit on hot summer days. Spread Greek yogurt on a baking sheet, add your favorite toppings like strawberries and crushed graham crackers, freeze it, break it into pieces, and enjoy a cool and creamy treat.
For a fun and boozy twist on a classic summer treat, try Joy’s watermelon pops with a skinny margarita mix. Cut circles from a watermelon, insert a stick, and pour a mix of tequila, lime juice, and orange over them for a refreshing and adult-friendly treat.
And if you’re in the mood for a non-sugar-added slushy, blend frozen pineapple chunks with berry-flavored Lacroix sparkling water for a refreshing and nutrient-packed drink that tastes like a sugary slushy without all the added sugar.
With Joy Bauer’s delicious summer dessert and drink tips, your next outdoor party is sure to be a hit. So fire up the grill, chill the drinks, and get ready to impress your guests with these scrumptious treats.
