7 Fruity Dessert Recipes to Bring to Your Summer Festivities
From fresh berries to juicy peaches, tart plums and creamy figs, the addition of fruit in dessert instantly elevates its flavour and texture profile. So, we've rounded up the very best dessert recipes that are bursting with fresh fruit, perfect for enjoying during the warmer months (although, we must admit they're equally delectable in winter, too). And remember, fruit dishes don't need to be restricted to after-dinner indulgences — these are perfect for enjoying at breakfast, brunch or to help you through that 3pm slump.
What we love most about these desserts its that they're adaptable to whatever fruit is in season — swap strawberries for mango or kiwi, pears for apples, plums for cherries and so forth. Plus, it's a great way to use up that pint of berries before it goes bad. Get creative and whatever fruits you decide on, you'll be left with a naturally sweet and flavoursome dish that'll be sure to brighten up anyone's day.
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe series Put on a Spread.
7 Fresh Fruit Dessert Recipes That Are Perfect For the Warmer Months
1. Plum Crostata With Orange and Thyme
Neither a galette nor pie, the crostata is a rustic free-form tart, which is known for its beautiful crisp and buttery pastry. The base of this recipe by Lia Townsend is rooted in a recipe from Cook Beautiful by Athena Calderone, which "has been lovingly adapted over many iterations of making it through the seasons."
The centre is traditionally filled with jam and the key is to use fruits that are in season. "Play around with flavours and the balance between sweetness and brightness of citrus," Townsend notes. For example, while this recipe calls for juicy plums and zesty orange, you could always try a combination of sweet strawberries and lemon.
Head here for the full recipe.
2. Spiced Pear and Strawberry Crumble
Using just one bowl, one baking dish, and minimal effort, the end result is a crisp, buttery crumb atop a juicy layer of stewed pear and strawberries. Lightly spiced with the warming flavour of cinnamon, this is a sweet and satisfying end to any meal — or long day at work. We strongly recommend serving this with a dollop of thick cream or ice-cream.
Head here for the full recipe.
3. Pavlova With Creme Fraiche, Plums and Almond Flakes
We all rave about having our go-to pavlova recipe, and we can assure you this is one that will stay with you for years. The fragile crunch of meringue and its fluffy insides, layered with soft cream and juicy fruit, is really an experience all of its own. While this recipe calls for sweet and sour plums, you can always opt for whatever's in season or readily available in your region. You can use the base recipe and then swap the topping for blueberries, kiwi fruit and strawberries, or honey and figs. Basically, use whatever's in season!
Head here for the full recipe.
4. Vegan Lemon and Blueberry Drizzle Loaf
Katherine Sabbath truly can do no wrong. Bursting with blueberries and lemon, this luscious loaf is full of fresh, sweet, and vibrant flavours. The zest from the lemon is perfectly offset by the sweet pops of juicy blueberries, both of which unite to deliver a wonderfully fresh flavour. Topped off with a simple yet impactful lemon drizzle, it truly is a cake to win over hearts.
Head here for the full recipe.
5. Strawberry Shortcake
This strawberry shortcake – built with layers of plain cake, cream and fresh berries – is one classic that will never go out of style. It's delightfully crumbly, topped with freshly whipped vanilla bean cream and more juicy marinated strawberries. It honestly looks as good as it tastes.
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6. Fig, Pistachio and Honey Tart
With a delicate shortcrust pastry and creamy filling, this fig, pistachio and honey tart is a treat for the eyes and the soul. With only two tablespoons of sugar in the whole recipe, it's one for those who don't like their desserts too sickly. Here, the beautiful figs and honey give a fresh sweetness, the pistachios add a crunch, and the buttery crust and smooth filling balance the texture beautifully. It's a true grown-up dessert.
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7. Eton Mess With Fresh Raspberries
No, an eton mess isn't simply a pavlova. Fun fact: eton mess originated from England, while the pavlova is claimed by both Australia and New Zealand as a dessert in honour of the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. While a pavlova's meringue is crispy on the outside but fluffy inside, the classic eton mess is crispy and dry throughout (the latter is actually what a true meringue is).
While this recipe calls for delightfully delicious raspberries, simply add your favourite picks or use whatever's in season. It's honestly one of the simplest but beautifully sweet desserts of all.
Head here for the full recipe.
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe series Put on a Spread.
