As the seasons change and spring arrives, our taste buds crave lighter, brighter flavors that evoke the sweetness of blooming flowers. What better way to welcome the warmer weather than with a delightful dessert? In this collection of 20 refreshingly sweet treats, we’ve gathered the best of the season’s freshest fruits, herbs, and spices to create desserts that are as lovely as they are delicious.
From classic combinations like strawberry rhubarb crisp and lemon blueberry cheesecake bars, to more unexpected pairings like elderflower and honey panna cotta and raspberry rosewater macarons, our recipes will take you on a journey through the flavors of spring. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity and sweet or tangy and tart, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring each of these 20 delightful desserts, sharing tips and tricks for making them, and providing inspiration for your next baking adventure. So let’s get started!
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
This classic dessert combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb, topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crisp. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a warm-weather treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup sliced rhubarb
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine strawberries and rhubarb. Sprinkle with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt; toss until fruit is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the fruit mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top the fruit mixture with the oat mixture, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
These bars combine the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a creamy cheesecake. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Arrange blueberries on top of cheesecake mixture.
5. Drizzle lemon juice over blueberries.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Elderflower and Honey Panna Cotta
This panna cotta recipe combines the subtle sweetness of honey with the floral flavors of elderflower, creating a refreshing and light dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon elderflower syrup (or 1-2 drops elderflower extract)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in elderflower syrup or extract, honey, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar or a few fresh flowers, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (heating) + refrigeration time (at least 4 hours)
Raspberry Rosewater Macarons
These French-inspired meringue-based cookies are infused with the sweetness of raspberries and the subtlety of rosewater, creating a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 1/2 cups (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 teaspoon raspberry jam
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until combined.
4. Add rosewater and raspberry jam to the egg mixture; mix until well combined.
5. Sift the almond flour mixture over the egg mixture; fold gently until smooth.
6. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small, round circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove any air bubbles. Let macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to form skin.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
9. Allow macarons to cool completely on a wire rack before filling with your favorite jam or ganache.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mango Coconut Chia Pudding
Experience the sweet fusion of tropical flavors with this simple and healthy pudding recipe. The combination of ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds will transport you to a paradise of taste.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup diced ripe mango
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, and honey. Stir well to combine.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, stir in diced mango and salt.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Lavender Honey Ice Cream
This refreshing ice cream combines the subtle sweetness of honey with the calming essence of lavender, perfect for a warm summer day. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes with the lavender buds. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container; discard the lavender.
3. Whisk in the honey and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Peach and Basil Sorbet
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of peaches with the brightness of basil, perfect for hot summer days. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this unique sorbet in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peaches, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Add chopped basil and lemon juice to the mixture. Blend until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is designed for your ice cream maker to do all the work.
Matcha Green Tea Mochi
Discover the perfect blend of Japanese tradition and modern flavor with this matcha green tea mochi recipe. Soft, chewy rice flour balls filled with a sweet and refreshing matcha filling make for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Matcha green tea filling (see below)
Matcha Green Tea Filling:
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add softened butter and mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls.
5. Make a small indentation in each ball and fill with matcha green tea filling.
6. Close the indentation and shape into a round mochi.
7. Cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes or until the mochi is soft and chewy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blackberry Lemon Tart
This refreshing tart combines the sweetness of blackberries with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a warm weather dessert. With its crumbly crust and flavorful filling, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix together blackberries, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
4. Arrange the berry mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Brush edges with melted butter and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pistachio and Cardamom Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the warm, spicy taste of cardamom, creating a unique and irresistible dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pistachio meal
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and pistachio meal.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and cardamom until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cherry Almond Clafoutis
Cherry Almond Clafoutis: A French-inspired dessert that combines sweet cherries with crunchy almonds and a hint of vanilla, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, almonds, and vanilla extract.
3. Add cherries and toss until they’re evenly coated with the almond mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, flour, and milk.
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the cherry mixture and gently fold until combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Orange Blossom Baklava
This Orange Blossom Baklava recipe combines the warm spices of traditional baklava with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange blossom water. The result is a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange blossom water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together walnuts, sugar, orange blossom water, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the walnut mixture, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Chocolate Raspberry Pavlova
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic pavlova, this dessert combines the richness of white chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Sift flour over egg mixture and gently fold until combined.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Fold melted white chocolate into meringue mixture until combined.
6. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, then turn off oven and let cool completely.
8. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Top cooled pavlova with whipped cream and fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes plus cooling time
Apricot and Thyme Galette
This Apricot and Thyme Galette is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the sweetness of apricots balanced by the earthy flavor of thyme. It’s an ideal dessert for warm weather or any occasion when you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped apricots, honey, thyme leaves, orange zest, and salt.
4. Place the apricot mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges to seal.
6. Brush the pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Passionfruit Mousse with Coconut Whip
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this refreshing dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of passionfruit with the creamy richness of coconut whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup passionfruit puree (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar, unsweetened shredded coconut, and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the passionfruit puree and honey until well combined.
4. Fold the passionfruit mixture into the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or glasses.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Mint Chocolate Chip Parfait
Elevate your dessert game with this easy-to-make Mint Chocolate Chip Parfait, featuring the perfect blend of cool mint and rich chocolate. Perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or white)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
2. Layer whipped cream, mixed berries, granola, and crushed peppermint candies in a glass or parfait dish.
3. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Drizzle melted chocolate over the layers.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of cream cheese, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. With its tender crumb and flavorful spices, this carrot cake is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, eggs, and spices.
3. Add grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using), stirring until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread or drizzle over cooled cake.
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Strawberry Coulis
Elevate your dessert game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of vanilla bean panna cotta with the sweetness and tartness of strawberry coulis. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion, this dessert is sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the panna cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
For the strawberry coulis:
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes with the vanilla bean. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl; discard solids.
3. Pour mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
4. Meanwhile, combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a blender. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve panna cotta chilled, topped with strawberry coulis and additional sliced strawberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + refrigeration time
Honey Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the warmth of honey and the subtle charm of lavender, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in honey, lavender buds, and salt.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lime and Coconut Tart
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing Lime and Coconut Tart! A perfect combination of tangy lime, creamy coconut, and flaky pastry will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pastry and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, and shredded coconut. Stir in lime juice.
3. Pour the filling mixture into the pastry-lined tart pan.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
5. Brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet treats of spring with these delightful dessert recipes. From classic flavors like strawberry rhubarb and lemon blueberry, to unique combinations like elderflower and honey panna cotta and raspberry rosewater macarons, there’s something for everyone. Other standout desserts include mango coconut chia pudding, lavender honey ice cream, and peach and basil sorbet. Whether you’re in the mood for a tart, cake, or cookies, these refreshing spring dessert recipes are sure to delight.
