Frozen fruit is a versatile ingredient that can elevate your dessert game in countless ways. Whether you’re looking to create a refreshing summer treat or a comforting winter indulgence, frozen fruit provides a burst of natural sweetness and vibrant colors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore ten delectable desserts you can make with frozen fruit. From classic favorites like berry crumbles and fruit popsicles to inventive creations like mango sorbet and blueberry cheesecake bars, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility and flavor of frozen fruits. Get ready to embark on a journey through a world of delightful frozen fruit desserts.
10 Desserts to Make With Frozen Fruit
1. Berry Crumble
Berry crumble is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of berries with a buttery, crumbly topping. It’s a comforting dessert that’s perfect for cool evenings or anytime you want to enjoy the delightful contrast of warm, juicy fruit and crisp, golden crumble. Using frozen berries makes it easy to whip up this dessert year-round.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 4 cups of mixed frozen berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen berries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together until the berries are well coated.
Transfer the berry mixture to a baking dish or individual ramekins.
In a separate bowl, prepare the crumble topping. Combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, diced butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until you have a crumbly texture.
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the berry mixture in your baking dish.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown, and the berry filling is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
This mixed berry crumble is a perfect blend of tart and sweet, with the comforting warmth of the crumble topping. It’s a dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite.
2. Fruit Popsicles
There’s nothing quite like a homemade popsicle to beat the summer heat. These fruit popsicles are a guilt-free way to indulge your sweet tooth while staying refreshed. You can customize them with your favorite frozen fruits, making them a healthy and tasty treat for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of frozen fruit (try using a mix of berries, mangoes, and kiwi)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
In a blender, combine one type of frozen fruit (e.g., berries) with 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup. Blend until smooth. This will be your first layer.
Pour the fruit puree into popsicle molds, filling them about one-third of the way. Place the molds in the freezer for about 30 minutes to set slightly.
In the same blender (no need to rinse it), combine another type of frozen fruit (e.g., mangoes) with 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt. Blend until smooth. This will be your second layer.
Carefully pour the yogurt mixture on top of the first fruit layer in the molds, filling them about two-thirds of the way. Insert popsicle sticks into the molds and return them to the freezer for another 30 minutes.
Finally, blend the last type of frozen fruit (e.g., kiwi) with 1/2 cup of coconut milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until smooth. This will be your third layer.
Pour the kiwi mixture on top of the yogurt layer in the molds, filling them to the top.
Freeze the popsicles for at least 4-6 hours, or until completely firm.
To remove the popsicles from the molds, briefly run them under warm water to loosen.
These rainbow fruit popsicles are not only visually stunning but also a delightful combination of fruity flavors. You can mix and match different fruits to create your own colorful masterpiece.
3. Mango Sorbet
Mango sorbet is a refreshing and dairy-free dessert that captures the essence of summer. Using frozen mango chunks ensures a creamy texture without the need for an ice cream maker. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy on a hot day or as a palate cleanser between courses during a fancy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of frozen mango chunks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime or lemon juice
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
In a blender, combine the frozen mango chunks, cooled sugar syrup, and fresh lime or lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender as you go.
Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more sugar or citrus juice if needed.
Once the sorbet mixture is smooth and well-balanced, transfer it to a container with a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
Before serving, let the sorbet sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
This mango sorbet is a tropical delight that captures the sweet, sunny flavor of ripe mangoes. It’s a dessert that’s sure to transport you to a beachside paradise with every spoonful.
4. Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
Blueberry cheesecake bars are a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and tangy blueberries. Using frozen blueberries in this recipe ensures that every bite is bursting with juicy berry goodness. These bars are perfect for gatherings or as a special treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Blueberry Topping:
- 2 cups frozen blueberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the gra
ham cracker crust and spread it evenly.
In a saucepan, combine the frozen blueberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour the blueberry topping over the cream cheese layer in the pan, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully chilled and set.
Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.
These blueberry cheesecake bars are a heavenly combination of creamy cheesecake and the vibrant, juicy burst of blueberries. They make for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
5. Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is a beloved Southern dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with a buttery, biscuit-like topping. Using frozen peaches ensures that you can enjoy this comforting dessert even when peaches are out of season. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the Peach Filling:
- 6 cups frozen peach slices (thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cobbler Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen peach slices (thawed and drained if using frozen), 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together until the peaches are well coated.
Transfer the peach mixture to a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
In a separate bowl, prepare the cobbler topping. Combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter and milk until you have a thick, smooth batter.
Spoon the cobbler batter evenly over the peach filling. You can use the back of a spoon to spread it out if needed.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the cobbler topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Peach cobbler is best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
This classic peach cobbler is a slice of Southern comfort that’s sure to warm your heart. The combination of tender peaches and the golden, buttery topping is simply irresistible.
6. Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is a timeless dessert that celebrates the sweet simplicity of strawberries, whipped cream, and tender cake. Using frozen strawberries in this recipe ensures that you can enjoy the taste of summer all year long. It’s a dessert that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and delightful.
Ingredients:
For the Shortcakes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Filling:
- 4 cups frozen strawberries (thawed and sliced)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until you have a crumbly texture.
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, and stir just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together. Pat it down to about 1-inch thickness.
Use a round biscuit cutter or a glass to cut out shortcakes from the dough. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the shortcakes are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced, thawed strawberries and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to release their juices and become slightly syrupy.
In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
To assemble, slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon some of the strawberry mixture onto the bottom half of each shortcake. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and then the other half of the shortcake.
Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade strawberry shortcake.
This strawberry shortcake is a timeless classic that captures the essence of summer. The combination of tender, juicy strawberries, fluffy shortcakes, and whipped cream is pure dessert perfection.
7. Raspberry Chocolate Tart
Raspberry and chocolate are a match made in dessert heaven, and this tart combines them beautifully. Using frozen raspberries ensures that you can enjoy the tart’s bright, tangy flavor all year long. This dessert is a showstopper that’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a special treat.
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
For the Raspberry Filling:
- 2 cups frozen raspberries (thawed and drained)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
For the Chocolate Tart Crust:
In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix.
Add the cold, diced butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with 2 tablespoons of ice water. Add this mixture to the food processor and pulse until the dough comes together. If needed, add an additional tablespoon of ice water.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times to bring it together. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.
Place a piece of parchment paper over the crust and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is set and dry to the touch. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
For the Raspberry Filling:
In a saucepan, combine the thawed and drained frozen raspberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the raspberries break down, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Pour the raspberry filling into the baked tart crust and spread it out evenly.
For the Chocolate Ganache:
Place the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over the chopped chocolate.
Let the mixture sit for a minute to allow the chocolate to melt, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the raspberry filling in the tart.
Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is set.
Slice and serve your decadent raspberry chocolate tart.
This raspberry chocolate tart is a stunning dessert that combines the tartness of raspberries with the richness of chocolate. It’s a treat that’s sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.
8. Frozen Fruit Parfait
A frozen fruit parfait is a delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s all about layering creamy yogurt, frozen fruit, and crunchy granola to create a parfait that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This dessert is a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of frozen fruit in a healthy and satisfying way.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen mixed berries (thawed)
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
- 1/2 cup granola (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed mixed berries. If you’d like a touch of sweetness, you can drizzle honey over the berries and gently toss to coat.
In serving glasses or bowls, start by layering a spoonful of Greek yogurt at the bottom.
Add a layer of the mixed berries on top of the yogurt.
Sprinkle a layer of granola over the berries.
Repeat the layers: yogurt, berries, granola, until you’ve filled your glasses or bowls. The number of layers will depend on the size of your serving containers.
Finish with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top and a final sprinkle of granola.
If desired, drizzle a little honey over the top for extra sweetness and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Serve your frozen fruit parfait immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
This mixed berry frozen fruit parfait is a healthy and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you’re craving a sweet and creamy treat.
9. Cherry Almond Galette
A galette is a rustic, free-form tart that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This cherry almond galette combines the sweet-tart flavor of cherries with the nuttiness of almond paste. Using frozen cherries in this recipe allows you to enjoy this elegant dessert even when cherries are out of season.
Ingredients:
For the Galette Dough:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
For the Almond Filling:
- 1/2 cup almond paste
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
For the Cherry Filling:
- 2 cups frozen cherries (thawed and drained)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
For the Galette Dough:
In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix.
Add the cold, diced butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add 2 tablespoons of ice water and pulse until the dough starts to come together. If needed, add an additional tablespoon of ice water.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times to bring it together. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
For the Almond Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond paste, granulated sugar, and egg yolk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
For the Cherry Filling:
In a saucepan, combine the thawed and drained frozen cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Assembling the Galette:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled galette dough into a circle about 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter.
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread the almond filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a 2-inch (5 cm) border around the edges.
Spoon the cherry filling over the almond filling.
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to create a rustic, free-form tart. Pleat the edges as needed to enclose the filling.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the galette is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
This cherry almond galette is a stunning dessert that combines the flavors of cherries and almond in a flaky, golden crust. It’s a rustic yet elegant treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
10. Banana and Berry Smoothie Bowl
Smoothie bowls are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. This banana and berry smoothie bowl combines the natural sweetness of frozen berries with the creaminess of bananas and yogurt. It’s a customizable delight that you can top with your favorite fruits and toppings.
Ingredients:
For the Smoothie Base:
- 2 ripe bananas, frozen
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
- 1/4 cup milk (any type you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
For Toppings (Customize to Your Preference):
- Sliced bananas
- Fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Granola
- Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
- Shredded coconut
- Drizzle of honey or maple syrup
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the frozen bananas, frozen mixed berries, Greek yogurt, milk, and honey (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender as you go.
Taste the smoothie base and adjust the sweetness or thickness by adding more honey or milk if needed.
Pour the smoothie base into a bowl.
Top your smoothie bowl with sliced bananas, fresh berries, granola, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or any other toppings you desire.
Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top for extra sweetness, if desired.
Enjoy your customized banana and berry smoothie bowl with a spoon.
This banana and berry smoothie bowl is a delightful treat that’s packed with the goodness of fruits and can be customized to your taste. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a dessert, it’s a healthy and satisfying choice.
Conclusion
Frozen fruit is a treasure trove of delicious possibilities when it comes to desserts. Whether you’re a fan of classic favorites like berry crumbles and strawberry shortcakes or you prefer inventive creations like mango sorbet and raspberry chocolate tarts, there’s a frozen fruit dessert to satisfy every craving.
So, whether you’re hosting a gathering, treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, or simply looking for a way to savor the flavors of your favorite fruits, turn to the magic of frozen fruit. These desserts are a celebration of nature’s bounty, and each bite is a reminder of the simple joys of life.
Embrace the joy of creating and savoring sweet memories, one bite at a time. Happy dessert-making!