With the Fourth of July just days away, I’m dreaming about relaxing by the water, enjoying time with family and soaking in some well-deserved July sunshine. July 4th really is the pinnacle of summertime, and no pool party or family cookout is complete without Fourth of July desserts to go with it. I’m talking patriotic cookie recipes, star-spangled brownies, and red, white, and blue snow cones (a personal favorite). Fourth of July just isn’t the same without delicious recipes to enjoy throughout the day.
Whether you’re planning a family cookout, spending the day by the pool, or packing snacks for an Independence Day fireworks show, we’ve rounded up 30 Fourth of July desserts to add some sweetness to this year’s celebrations. These recipes are quick, easy, and patriotic. Many can even be made ahead of time for those who are hosting family or friends.
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Easy Fourth of July Desserts
These are the kind of Fourth of July dessert recipes you can whip up in a short amount of time, without too many crazy ingredients or complicated steps. They’re perfect for those who prefer simple things when they’re working in the kitchen.
1. Red, White, and Blue Chocolate Chip Cookies
Little bakers will love this recipe. Not only is it a classic family favorite, but it has a fun, patriotic twist everyone will love. These are perfect for bringing to the neighborhood barbecue.
2. Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
These are an easy, bite-sized treat that the little ones can munch on in between all your Fourth of July activities.
3. Star-Spangled Cookies
Recipes that double as an art project always get our stamp of approval. Kiddos will love snacking on these tasty cookies as much as they love decorating them for the holiday.
4. Crockpot Blueberry Cobbler
This baked cobbler can be made in the Crockpot—but that doesn’t mean it sacrifices flavor. Prep it ahead of time in just 20 minutes with a four-hour cook time.
5. Firework Cookies
What’s better than a treat to commemorate the best part of every Fourth of July celebration, the fireworks? These cookies are festive and fun, and leave plenty of room for your kiddos to help decorate.
6. Red, White and Blue Mini Cheesecakes
The payoff for these mini cheesecakes is well worth it. They’re not only delicious, but they’re oh-so-cute for a July 4th party!
7. Fruit Pizza
For something that lands on the healthier side, fruit pizza is an excellent colorful and festive option for this July 4th. You can get creative about which fruits to include (and exclude), and produce something that is personalized for what your guests love.
8. Watermelon Sugar Cookies
What feels more summer than enjoying a fresh watermelon outside with family? The best part about this recipe is—even if you don’t like the fruit—you can still enjoy these cookies! They may even help any pickier kiddos get more comfortable with trying the real thing.
9. Dessert Kebabs
You’re sure to see lots of savory kebabs making the rounds at your summer cookouts, but what about dessert-inspired ones? Layered with brownies, marshmallows, strawberries, and blueberries, you can’t go wrong with these.
10. Fruit Cheesecake Sugar Cookie Cups
This recipe combines the softness of a sugar cookie with a creamy cheesecake filling and a fruit topping your guests will love. It’s the perfect summertime treat you’ll definitely want to save to your list.
No-Bake Fourth of July Desserts
For last-minute dessert ideas, or just for those who would prefer some treats that won’t require turning on the oven, these no-bake Fourth of July desserts are your best bet. From fruit dips to chocolate-covered pretzels, we’ve got you covered.
11. Cheesecake Jars
Have the kids make their very own no-bake cheesecake jars. They can enjoy crushing the graham crackers for the base and choose their own toppings. Don’t forget to top it with the best part—whipped cream!
12. Dipped Strawberries
You’ll only need three ingredients and a few minutes of your time to make these chocolate-covered strawberries. They’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
13. Patriotic Snack Mix
Who doesn’t love a sweet and salty snack combo? Prep this dessert ahead of time, and it’s sure to make any Fourth of July party guest smile.
14. American Flag Pretzels
This festive treat takes only 15 minutes to make, and the kids might love decorating the pretzels, too.
15. Easy Creamy Vanilla Pudding Fruit Dip
Have a kiddo who can’t get enough fruit? Make their summer snacking even tastier with this fruit dip that is easily made festive with some colorful sprinkles.
Make-Ahead Fourth of July Desserts
If you have an elaborate backyard barbecue or large family gathering planned, these make-ahead Fourth of July desserts should be added to your menu. Many of them can be made several days in advance and stored to eliminate unnecessary stress.
16. Berry Trifle
This dessert is easy, refreshing, and can be stored for several days ahead of your Fourth of July party. The whipped cream is an added touch you won’t want to miss!
17. Flag Cake
As much fun as it will be to whip up this angel food cake, it will be even more fun to decorate it together like an American flag.
18. Tricolor 4th of July Brownies
Who’s going to say no to moist and fudgy brownie bites that have been generously garnished with creamy (and festive!) vanilla frosting? You can easily use a store bought brand for these, or whip up a homemade recipe.
19. Red, White, and Blue Red Velvet Cookies
These M&M cookies are baked to perfection and oh-so-perfect for a Fourth of July celebration, especially because they can be thrown together in under 30 minutes and served in large quantities.
20. Patriotic Marble Cake
Another festive flag cake option, this fun recipe is patriotic both inside and out! The recipe can also be easily adjusted to be gluten free and holds well over several days.
21. Cookie Dough Dip
Dips are perfect for parties and family gatherings, so why not switch it up and make a dessert dip? You can serve with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, and fruit.
22. Fourth of July Sprinkle Cookies
We love a patriotic dessert, and this one fits the bill perfectly with festive red, white, and blue sprinkles. Another great option for little hands to help with, too.
23. American Flag Pie
It doesn’t get much more American than a classic pie recipe with a flag cutout on top! Kids who enjoy baking will love throwing on their apron and helping craft this masterpiece.
24. American Flag Rice Krispie Treats
Rice Krispie treats are always a good idea. They’re light and delicious, making them perfect for the hot summer months. You can easily use store-bought ones, or get creative with a homemade recipe.
25. Star-Spangled Brownies
Brownies hold well over several days and are a great dessert for kiddos who love to whip out some frosting and sprinkles and decorate. You can also cut them into any shape you’d like—but we recommend stars for the Fourth of July spirit.
Frozen Fourth of July Desserts
I’m not sure where you guys are, but here in the Midwest, it’s looking like an extra hot Fourth of July. So these frozen treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
26. Patriotic Popsicles
Beat the summertime heat with patriotic pops made with frozen yogurt and an array of red, white, and blue fruit, like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
27. Snow Cones
Nothing says summer quite like snow cones, and now you can make your own! The best part about this recipe is that it can be kid-friendly, or you can make it boozy for the parents by adding a hint of vodka.
28. Ice Cream Sandwiches
Ice cream sandwiches are a July 4th cookout’s best friend, and this recipe’s use of chocolate chip cookies complements the ice cream perfectly.
29. Yogurt Popsicles
Another popsicle recipe that will wow your guests and can be prepped in just 15 minutes. Plus, it only includes three ingredients.
30. No-Churn Ice Cream
Step up your dessert making game with some homemade ice cream. The best part? This recipe only includes four ingredients and can be made with endless flavor variations.
FAQs
What desserts are best for a Fourth of July cookout?
The best Fourth of July desserts for a cookout can be prepared ahead of time and served in large quantities. These include firework cookies, red velvet cupcakes, patriotic brownies, angel cake, and marble cake.
Can I make Fourth of July desserts ahead of time?
Yes! Fourth of July desserts you can make ahead of time include brownies (they hold well over several days), cake recipes, and no-bake treats like cookie dough dip and snack mixes. As long as you can bake and store the treat—without it spoiling—it can be made ahead of time. Just avoid recipes that use fresh fruit, as those are best served the day they are made.
What are the best no-bake Fourth of July desserts?
Some of our favorite no-bake Fourth of July desserts include cheesecake jars, American flag Rice Krispie treats, chocolate-covered pretzels, and other snack mixes. You don’t have to even turn on your oven to make a fun Fourth of July dessert—you just have to get creative!
What are some healthy Fourth of July dessert options?
Healthy Fourth of July desserts include recipes that are low in sugar and use healthy ingredients like fresh fruit. One of my personal favorites is Fruit Pizza. It’s colorful, easy to display, and uses tons of healthy ingredients.
Rebecca Smith, Editorial Assistant
As an Editorial Assistant, Rebecca works with The Everymom team on updating existing content, photo sourcing, pitching original articles, and more. She’s passionate about creating authentic and diverse online content and is thrilled to help women of all ages feel represented.
