Summer berry recipes - strawberries on a table

When relaxed summer food is on the menu and delicious seasonal berries are at their very best, you don’t need much to create stunning summer desserts with ease. At this time of year, berries are abundant in shops, gardens and hedgerows throughout the UK. From sweet strawberries and sharp raspberries to juicy blackberries and intense cherries, summer berries are a great way to bring a bit of sunshine to your table. 

We’ve chosen 6 of our favourite summer pud recipes where you can swap in a whole range of beautiful berries, including twists on some classics, a smashing 5-ingredient pud and an impressive centrepiece that’s perfect whatever the occasion…

Use any combination of berries you like in this gorgeous summer pudding. Orange and vanilla give extra zing and fragrance to the filling and spreading jam on the bread stops everything getting too soggy – genius!

With just five ingredients and less than 15 minutes prep time, this beautiful Honey berry filo smash couldn’t be simpler. Just combine crisp pastry, toasted pistachios, creamy yoghurt and honey with your favourite berries and dessert is served!

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Eton mess smashes into a pastry tart, look no further! This easy berry tart can be prepped ahead of time, ready to assemble at the last minute – perfect for summer evening entertaining.

Any combo of berries will work in this super-simple 5-ingredient dessert. Contrast is key – think sharp raspberries to cut through the richness of sweet jam and dark chocolate, while the crunch of meringue finishes everything off perfectly. 

This beautiful no-bake cheesecake is all about the layering and can be prepped ahead, making it ideal for any celebration. We’ve used blackcurrants for this showstopper but you can create this ombré effect with any berries you fancy. 

Sometimes you just can’t beat a classic. The perfect pavlova is about three things – fluffy crunchy meringues, sweet vanilla cream, and piles of seasonal fruit. Pick your favourite berries and create the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

And, if you’d like to enjoy a bit of summer sunshine all year round, check out our handy guide to preserving summer produce.