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If you liked my 3-Ingredient Healthy Watermelon Gummies, then you’re going to LOVE these strawberry lemonade electrolyte gummies! Fresh strawberries and lemon, sweetened with honey, set with gelatin, and finished with a pinch of high-mineral sea salt (or an electrolyte packet!) for an actual hydrating, nourishing gummy. They’re sweet, tart, chewy, and genuinely will leave you feeling amazing from the inside out! ✨

These aren’t just a fun snack, they’re a functional one too. The grass-fed gelatin provides collagen to support glowing skin, healthy hair, and gut health. The fresh strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. The lemon juice is bright and alkalizing. And the mineral sea salt or electrolyte packet? That’s what sets these apart from every other healthy gummy out there. Real electrolytes to keep you hydrated and energized all day long! These are the gummies I grab after a workout, before a long day in the sun, or honestly… whenever my toddler asks for “candy” (he doesn’t know the difference, ha!). & if you’re looking for healthier ways to hydrate, pair these gummies with my homemade lemon-lime gatorade!

Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Lemonade Electrolyte Gummies

  • They taste like actual strawberry lemonade. Sweet, bright, perfectly tart – these gummies capture every bit of the classic summer drink flavor in chewy, poppable form. Kids go absolutely crazy for them, and honestly so do I!
  • Packed with real health benefits. Collagen from the gelatin, vitamin C from the strawberries and lemon, antioxidants, and real electrolytes from the mineral salt or electrolyte packet. These aren’t just a treat, they’re genuinely good for you.
  • Easy to make and great for the whole family. Blend, strain, heat, pour, chill. That’s it. They take about 15 minutes of active work (NO baking, obviously) and keep in the fridge all week for a healthy snack that’s ready whenever you need one.
hand holding strawberry lemonade electrolyte gummies.

What Are the Health Benefits?

Grass-Fed Gelatin: Gelatin is the star ingredient in these gummies and where most of the nutritional magic happens. I use and love the Further Foods Grass-Fed Gelatin on Amazon. It’s naturally rich in collagen-supporting amino acids (particularly glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline) that support healthy skin elasticity, gut lining integrity, joint health, and hair and nail strength. Gelatin also supports digestion by helping to heal and seal the gut lining — which is why these gummies are one of my favorite gut-healthy snacks.

Fresh Strawberries: Strawberries are one of the best sources of vitamin C, which is essential for collagen synthesis, meaning they make the gelatin’s collagen benefits even more effective! They’re also rich in antioxidants, fiber (strained out in this recipe), and polyphenols that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Fresh Lemon: Lemon is alkalizing, liver-supportive, and packed with vitamin C. The bright acidity also naturally preserves the gummies and gives them that irresistible strawberry lemonade flavor.

High-Mineral Sea Salt or Electrolyte Packet: This is the secret ingredient that takes these from a healthy snack to a truly functional, hydrating treat. High-mineral sea salt (I love Baja Gold Mineral Sea Salt) contains over 90 trace minerals including sodium, magnesium, and potassium – the electrolyte trifecta that supports cellular hydration, energy levels, and overall wellbeing. Alternatively, use your favorite electrolyte packet for a convenient, flavor-customizable option!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed – Fresh, ripe, in-season strawberries give the best flavor and the most vibrant pink color. The juicier the berry, the better!
  • 2 whole lemons, peeled – Remove as much of the white pith as possible, it’s very bitter and will affect the flavor of the gummies. You want mainly the fruit and juice.
  • ¼ cup – ½ cup honey – Start with ¼ cup and taste before adding more. The sweetness level depends on how tart your lemons are and how sweet you like your gummies. Raw honey adds the most nutritional benefit, but any honey works.
  • ¼ cup unflavored gelatin powder – Use a good quality grass-fed gelatin powder for the most nutritional benefit. I love Great Lakes or Vital Proteins. Don’t substitute with agar agar, it will change the texture significantly.
  • 1 teaspoon high-mineral sea salt, or 1 electrolyte packet – This is what makes these gummies genuinely hydrating and sets them apart from a regular fruit gummy. Redmond’s Real Salt is my go-to for the mineral content. Alternatively, add your favorite unflavored or lemon/strawberry electrolyte packet!

Instructions

  1. Add the fresh strawberries and peeled lemons to a high-speed blender and blend until completely smooth.
  2. Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer and into a medium saucepan, pressing with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
  3. Add the honey and unflavored gelatin powder to the strained juice in the saucepan. Stir well to begin incorporating the gelatin into the liquid.
  4. Place the saucepan over low heat and warm for just about 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mixture is warm and the gelatin has fully dissolved. Do NOT bring to a simmer or a boil – too much heat will break down the gelatin and prevent the gummies from setting properly.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in the high-mineral sea salt or electrolyte packet until fully dissolved.
  6. Carefully pour or ladle the mixture into gummy molds. A squeeze bottle makes this step much easier and less messy! Transfer the molds to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the gummies are completely firm and set.
  7. Pop the gummies out of the molds and enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
three strawberry lemonade electrolyte gummies stacked on a table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes! Frozen strawberries work well in this recipe, just thaw them completely before blending. Keep in mind that frozen strawberries can be slightly less sweet than fresh, so you may want to add a bit more honey to compensate. The color and flavor will be very similar to fresh!

Can I use lemon juice instead of whole lemons?

You can use ½ cup of fresh lemon juice as a substitute for the 2 whole peeled lemons. If using bottled lemon juice, I recommend using 100% pure lemon juice with no additives. Keep in mind that whole peeled lemons add a slightly thicker, more full-bodied texture to the gummies that you won’t get from juice alone.

What gummy molds do you recommend?

Any silicone gummy mold works! I love small bear-shaped molds for a fun, candy-store feel, but heart shapes, star shapes, or even a simple ice cube tray all work perfectly. Silicone molds make it much easier to pop the gummies out once set. A squeeze bottle or small measuring cup with a pour spout makes filling the molds neat and easy!

Why are my gummies not setting?

This is almost always caused by overheating the gelatin mixture. If the liquid comes to a simmer or boil, the gelatin proteins break down and lose their ability to set. Keep the heat on low and remove from heat as soon as the gelatin is fully dissolved, the mixture should feel warm, not hot. If your gummies aren’t setting, try again with a lower heat setting and shorter warming time.

Made this recipe? I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @samdoesherbest or TikTok @samdoesherbest — I repost my favorites! And if you loved it, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below. It means the world and helps other readers find this recipe!

strawberry lemonade electrolyte gummies in a small bowl.
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Strawberry Lemonade Electrolyte Gummies

These strawberry lemonade electrolyte gummies are a fun, functional snack made with just 5 simple ingredients! Packed with collagen-boosting gelatin, vitamin C from fresh fruit, and real electrolytes for hydration. These gummies are as nourishing as they are delicious!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 60 gummies (approx.)

Equipment

  • 1 blender
  • 1 medium saucepan
  • 2 gummy molds

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries stems removed
  • 2 whole lemons peeled, remove as much white pith as possible (or 1/4 cup lemon juice)
  • 1/4 – 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup unflavored gelatin powder
  • 1 teaspoon high-mineral sea salt or 1 electrolyte packet

Instructions

  • Blend strawberries and peeled lemons until smooth.
  • Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a medium saucepan. Discard solids.
  • Add honey and gelatin powder to the strained juice. Stir to combine.
  • Warm over low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring, until gelatin fully dissolves. Do NOT boil!
  • Remove from heat and stir in sea salt or electrolyte packet.
  • Pour into gummy molds and refrigerate for 30 minutes or until set.
  • Pop out of molds and enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Notes

  • Do NOT bring the gelatin mixture to a simmer or boil, this will prevent the gummies from setting.
  • A squeeze bottle makes filling the molds much easier and less messy.
  • Use a grass-fed gelatin powder for the most collagen and nutritional benefit.
  • Taste the mixture before pouring into molds and adjust honey to your preferred sweetness level.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gummy | Calories: 35kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 2g | Sugar: 6g

I’m going to need you to trust me on this one. This strawberry dump cake is made with just 3 ingredients — fresh strawberries, a box of vanilla cake mix, and cold butter — and it is one of the most delicious, impressive, shockingly EASY desserts you’ll ever make! My husband tried it and declared it the best dessert I’ve ever made. And I make A LOT of desserts. So that’s really saying something.

The beauty of a dump cake is right there in the name – you literally dump the ingredients into a baking dish, one on top of the other, and let the oven do all the work!. The strawberries get jammy and bubbling, the cake mix bakes into a golden, slightly crispy, buttery crust on top, and the whole thing comes out looking and smelling like something that required serious skill. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and you have an absolutely perfect summer dessert. Easily made gluten-free, endlessly customizable with any fruit you love, and on the table in under 45 minutes. If you love easy summer desserts, this one belongs right alongside my 4-Ingredient Peach Cobbler and Easy Baked Peaches in your warm-weather rotation!

Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Strawberry Dump Cake

  • Just 3 ingredients you probably already have at home! Fresh strawberries, a box of vanilla cake mix, and butter. That’s the entire recipe. No mixing bowls, no electric mixer, no measuring anything beyond the strawberries. This is as easy as dessert gets!
  • Completely customizable. Use whatever fruit you have on hand, swap the cake mix flavor, make it gluten-free – this recipe is endlessly adaptable and turns out beautifully every single time. See the variations section below for all the ways to make it your own!
  • So delicious nobody will believe how easy it was. The golden, buttery cake crust on top, the warm bubbling strawberries underneath, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top – this dessert is a total showstopper that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. You didn’t. Nobody needs to know.
close up image of 3 ingredient strawberry dump cake being scooped.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds strawberries, hulled and sliced – Fresh, ripe, in-season strawberries make this cake absolutely incredible. The juicier and sweeter your berries, the better the final result. You don’t need to add any sugar or cornstarch – the strawberries will release their own juices as they bake, creating the most beautiful bubbling strawberry filling.
  • 1 box vanilla cake mix – The dry cake mix goes on straight from the box – do not follow the box directions, don’t add eggs or oil or water. Just sprinkle the dry powder directly over the strawberries! I used the Miss Jones gluten-free vanilla cake mix and it was absolutely perfect.
  • 12 tablespoons butter, cold and sliced into pieces – Cold butter is key here! As it bakes, it melts slowly and evenly into the dry cake mix, creating that gorgeous golden, buttery, slightly crunchy crust on top. Use a good quality butter – you’ll taste it in every bite.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Place the hulled and sliced strawberries in a 9×13-inch baking dish in an even layer.
  3. Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly on top of the strawberries, spreading it out into a flat, even layer that covers the berries completely. Do not stir!
  4. Evenly place the sliced butter pieces across the top of the cake mix, covering as much surface area as possible so the crust bakes evenly.
  5. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the strawberry filling is visibly bubbling around the edges.
  6. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top and enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Make it gluten-free: Simply swap the standard vanilla cake mix for a gluten-free vanilla cake mix, I love Miss Jones Gluten-Free Classic Yellow Cake Mix, which is what I used in this recipe. Everything else stays exactly the same. The result is just as golden, buttery, and delicious as the original!

Make it dairy-free: Replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance, sliced cold and placed on top just as directed. Use dairy-free vanilla ice cream for serving. The rest of the recipe is already dairy-free!

Make it with other fruit: This is where the dump cake truly shines – it works with virtually any fruit you love or have on hand! Try it with:

  • 🍑 Fresh or frozen peaches – classic and incredible
  • 🫐 Blueberries – beautiful and jammy
  • 🍒 Cherries – rich and deeply flavorful
  • 🍓 Mixed berries – strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries together is stunning
  • 🍍 Pineapple – for a tropical twist with a yellow cake mix

Swap the cake mix flavor: Yellow cake mix, white cake mix, lemon cake mix, or even chocolate cake mix all work beautifully depending on which fruit you’re using. Lemon cake mix with blueberries is especially incredible!

3 ingredient strawberry dump cake on a plate.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Serve it slightly warm for the best experience. Dump cake is at its absolute best served warm, straight from the oven (or reheated!) with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream melting on top. The contrast of the warm, bubbling strawberry filling, the golden cake crust, and the cold ice cream is genuinely unbeatable. Avoid serving it cold straight from the fridge, instead heat it in a 350° Fahrenheit oven for a few minutes before serving.
  • For a softer cake layer, cover with foil for the last 10 minutes. If you prefer a softer, more cake-like topping rather than a crispy crust, loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. This traps steam and keeps the top from getting too crispy while still allowing it to cook through.
  • Don’t skip covering the berries completely with cake mix. Any gaps in the cake mix layer will result in dry pockets of uncooked cake mix powder rather than a cohesive crust. Take an extra moment to spread the cake mix evenly all the way to the edges of the pan before adding the butter.
  • Use cold butter – not melted. I know it might seem like melted butter would be easier, but cold butter sliced into pieces is the secret to that golden, even, cobbler-like crust. It melts slowly and distributes evenly as it bakes, giving you a much more beautiful, consistent result.

Made this recipe? I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @samdoesherbest or TikTok @samdoesherbest – I repost my favorites! And if you loved it, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and written review below. It means the world and helps other readers find this recipe!

overhead image of 3 ingredient strawberry dump cake in a baking dish with ice cream on top.
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3-Ingredient Strawberry Dump Cake

This strawberry dump cake is made with just 3 ingredients and comes together in under 45 minutes with almost NO effort! The strawberries bake down into a jammy, bubbling filling while the cake mix and butter create the most golden, buttery crust on top. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and it tastes like something that took hours to bake!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 9 servings

Equipment

  • 1 9×13-inch baking pan

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds strawberries hulled and sliced
  • 1 box vanilla cake mix I used Miss Jones gluten-free cake mix
  • 12 tablespoons butter cold and sliced

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Place strawberries and 2 tablespoons of the cake mix in a 9×13-inch baking dish, then stir to coat the strawberries in the cake mix.
  • Sprinkle the remaining dry cake mix evenly over the strawberries. Do not stir!
  • Place sliced butter pieces evenly across the top of the cake mix.
  • Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown on top and the filling is bubbling.
  • Cool for 10 minutes, then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Do not follow the cake mix box directions — use the dry powder straight from the box.
  • Use cold butter, not melted, for the best golden, even crust.
  • Spread the cake mix completely to the edges so there are no dry pockets of powder.
  • For a softer cake layer, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Easily made gluten-free with a GF cake mix (I love Miss Jones!).
  • Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 24g

Mom’s at it again with another one of her amazing cocktail recipes! Sweet, juicy peaches steeped in dry rosé and peach brandy, then topped with a splash of sparkling water right before serving. It’s not too sweet, it’s incredibly refreshing, and it tastes like peak summer in a glass. My mom is truly the cocktail QUEEN and this is her most requested recipe — and now I’m sharing it with all of you!

What I love most about this recipe (besides the fact that it’s absolutely delicious!) is how easy and make-ahead friendly it is. You simply stir everything together in a pitcher and let it chill — the longer it sits, the more the peaches and basil infuse the rosé with the most incredible flavor. It’s the perfect pitcher cocktail for summer entertaining, and it makes enough to serve a crowd. If you love summer pitcher cocktails, this belongs alongside my Mango Margaritas and Watermelon Margaritas as your go-to summer hosting lineup!

Why You’ll Love This Rosé Sangria

Makes a whole pitcher – perfect for parties! This recipe serves a crowd, which makes it absolutely ideal for summer entertaining, backyard barbecues, girls’ nights, and Fourth of July gatherings. It also doubles easily if you’re feeding a bigger group!

My Mom’s famous recipe – and she’s the cocktail queen. This isn’t just any rosé sangria, it’s the one my mom has been making every summer for years, and the one everyone at every party asks her for. I finally convinced her to share it, and I cannot wait for you to try it, too!

Not too sweet, totally refreshing. So many sangria recipes are loaded with sugar and end up tasting like punch. This one uses a dry rosé and lets the natural sweetness of the fresh peaches do the work – it’s balanced, bright, and genuinely refreshing.

overhead image of summer rose sangria with peaches on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of rosé did you use?

I used a dry rosé, because I don’t like my sangria overly sweet, and my mom always makes it this way too! A dry rosé lets the natural sweetness of the peaches do the work without making the whole pitcher taste like sugary punch. That said, this is your sangria so use your favorite rosé! If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, a semi-dry or off-dry rosé works beautifully. The most important thing is that it’s a wine you actually enjoy drinking.

Can I make this a mocktail (non-alcoholic)?

Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic version of this peach rosé sangria, swap the rosé for a non-alcoholic sparkling rosé or white grape juice, and replace the peach brandy with peach nectar or a splash of peach juice. Add all the same fruit, chill as directed, and top with sparkling water before serving. It’s just as beautiful and refreshing, perfect for anyone who doesn’t drink or for serving alongside the alcoholic version at a party so everyone has a glass!

What fruit can I use instead of peaches?

Fresh peaches are the star of this recipe and worth seeking out during summer peak season, but there are plenty of great substitutes if peaches aren’t available or in season. Nectarines are the closest swap and work beautifully. Strawberries are also delicious and give the sangria a gorgeous pink hue. Mango adds a tropical sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with rosé and basil. Raspberries or blackberries are another great option for a more berry-forward sangria. You can also combine two fruits – peach and raspberry together is particularly stunning!

a glass of summer rose sangria with fresh sliced peaches inside.
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Summer Peach Rosé Sangria

This rosé sangria is my mom's famous summer recipe! It's not too sweet, incredibly refreshing, and makes a whole pitcher, making it the ultimate make-ahead cocktail for summer parties, backyard barbecues, and any warm-weather gathering. If you're looking for an easy, fancy-seeming rosé sangria recipe that will have everyone asking for the recipe, this is it!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large pitcher

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle rosé
  • 1/2 cup peach brandy
  • 2 cups fresh peached chopped
  • sparkling water for serving
  • 1/4 cup simple syrup optional, for a sweeter sangria (mom & I leave it out)

Instructions

  • Combine the rosé, peach brandy, and chopped peaches in a large pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully meld.
  • Taste before serving and add simple syrup if desired for extra sweetness.
  • Serve over ice, topped with sparkling water. Garnish with a peach slice if desired. Enjoy!

This collection of healthy summer desserts is your ultimate guide to gluten-free, feel-good treats that are perfect for warm weather! From baked peaches and frozen yogurt bark to s’mores bars, lemon bars, and strawberry shortcakes. With 20+ recipes to choose from there’s something for every summer craving, cookout, and backyard party. If you’re looking for easy, healthy summer dessert recipes that everyone will love (even kids!) this is the list!

1
overhead image of 4 ingredient peach cobbler in a baking dish with ice cream on top.
4-Ingredient Peach Cobbler
This 4 ingredient peach cobbler is the perfect simple yet delicious dessert recipe! Made with fresh summer peaches and a perfectly sweet crumb topping. Whip up this super easy recipe for potluck, parties, or summer bbqs! This recipe even includes gluten-free and vegan options.
Check out this recipe
2
Healthy Watermelon Gummies
These healthy watermelon gummies are made with just 3 simple ingredients—fresh watermelon, lime juice, and grass-fed gelatin. Packed with collagen to support glowing skin and gut health, they’re naturally sweet, sugar-free, and perfect for kids or adults. A fun, fruity snack that’s refreshing, nourishing, and easy to make right at home!
Check out this recipe
3
a s'mores bar being pulled apart.
Gluten-Free S’mores Bars
These s’mores bars are something else! A buttery graham cracker base followed by a lush layer of chocolate is topped off with toasty marshmallows. These s’mores bars will blow you away with how delicious and addictive they are – all while being vegan and gluten-free!
Check out this recipe
4
close up image of baked peaches in a baking dish.
4-Ingredient Baked Peaches
These baked peaches are warm, tender, and caramelized with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon – made with just 4 simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes! Topped with a scoop of homemade no-churn vanilla bean ice cream (no ice cream maker required!), this is the ultimate easy summer dessert that tastes far more impressive than the effort it takes to make. If you're looking for an easy baked peaches recipe that's perfect for peak peach season, this is the one to make this weekend!
Check out this recipe
5
Blueberry Muddy Buddies
These easy Blueberry Muddy Buddies are a no-bake, gluten-free, and dairy-free twist on the classic sweet snack. Made with just 5 simple ingredients—including fresh blueberries and peanut butter – they come together in minutes for the perfect healthier treat. Great for snacking, sharing, or storing in the fridge all week long!
Check out this recipe
6
close up image of a strawberry shortcake stuffed with whipped cream and strawberries.
Mom’s BEST Strawberry Shortcakes Recipe
These strawberry shortcakes are my mom's famous recipe – flaky, buttery biscuits piled high with juicy strawberries and homemade whipped cream, and the first dessert I crave every single summer when fresh berries are at their peak! They feel fancy enough for a summer party but are surprisingly simple to make from scratch, with no mixer or special equipment required. It's a classic strawberry shortcake recipe SO good, everyone will ask for the recipe!
Check out this recipe
7
Overhead image of summer fruit crisp in a baking dish with vanilla ice cream on top.
Healthy Summer Fruit Crisp
A healthy fruit crisp loaded with fresh summer fruits! The perfect warm-weather dessert, best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Super easy to make with just one bowl, in 30 minutes.
Check out this recipe
8
watermelon shaved ice in a small bowl with a sprig of fresh mint.
Watermelon Shaved Ice
This viral watermelon shaved ice is the ultimate healthy summer treat made with just frozen watermelon and a splash of fresh lime juice! It’s refreshing, naturally sweet, and perfect for hot days when you want something light and hydrating. This easy 1-ingredient recipe is vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and ready in minutes – no ice cream maker needed!
Check out this recipe
9
gluten-free strawberry shortcake on a table with whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top.
6-Ingredient Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake
This gluten-free strawberry shortcake is the easy, light, and summery dessert you’ll want to make again and again! With just 6 simple ingredients, it’s fluffy, naturally gluten-free, and topped with a generous layer of whipped cream and sweet, juicy strawberries. It's perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any warm-weather gathering, this shortcake is a no-fuss, totally delicious crowd-pleaser!
Check out this recipe
10
overhead image of pineapple ice cream in a loaf pan
2-Ingredient Pineapple Ice Cream
Fresh, creamy, and irresistibly delicious pineapple ice cream! Made with just two ingredients, and in under 5 minutes. This pineapple ice cream is the BEST healthy summertime treat.
Check out this recipe
11
graham cracker being dipped into s'more dip
3-Ingredient S’mores Dip
Super quick and easy 3-ingredient s’mores dip! Melty chocolate and gooey marshmallows, served with graham crackers. Throw together this simple dessert in just 10 minutes!
Check out this recipe
12
cottage cheese blueberry pie ice cream being scooped with an ice cream scooper.
Cottage Cheese Blueberry Pie Ice Cream
This cottage cheese blueberry pie ice cream is a creamy, high-protein frozen treat made with just 5 simple ingredients – a silky cottage cheese base swirled with jammy blueberry preserves and studded with buttery graham cracker pieces for a flavor that tastes exactly like a slice of blueberry pie! No ice cream maker needed, under 5 minutes of prep, and it's naturally sweetened and packed with protein. If you're looking for an easy, healthy cottage cheese ice cream recipe that tastes like a real dessert, this blueberry pie version is the one to make!
Check out this recipe
13
close up image a piece of frozen yogurt bark with fresh strawberries on top.
Easy & Healthy Frozen Yogurt Bark
This frozen yogurt bark is a creamy, colorful summer treat made with vanilla Greek yogurt, swirled with fruit jam, and loaded with fresh berries, and crunchy nuts! It takes just 10 minutes to prep, NO baking, and tastes like ice cream. An easy, healthy frozen yogurt bark recipe that's as beautiful as it is delicious!
Check out this recipe
14
close up image of a healthy cottage cheese lemon bar on a plate with a lemon slice on top.
Healthy Cottage Cheese Lemon Bars
These healthy lemon bars are creamy, perfectly tart, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup – made with a secret ingredient (cottage cheese!) that keeps them higher in protein and silky smooth without any refined sugar. Built on a buttery graham cracker crust and baked to custardy perfection. These healthy lemon bars taste just as indulgent as the classic version but with healthier ingredients.
Check out this recipe
15
frozen chocolate protein peanut butter s'mores bars stacked on top of each other on a table.
Frozen Chocolate Protein Peanut Butter S’mores Bars
These Frozen Chocolate Protein Peanut Butter S’mores Bars are a chocolate protein twist on the nostalgic campfire classic. With graham crackers, creamy peanut butter, chocolate protein whipped cream, and a chocolate chip coating, they’re indulgent and seriously delicious! This no bake recipe is easy to make, freezer-friendly, and the perfect treat when you want something sweet and satisfying.
Check out this recipe
16
Healthy Gluten-Free Zucchini Brownies
These healthy gluten-free zucchini brownies are rich, fudgy, and secretly packed with shredded zucchini for a boost of hidden veggies! Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and made in just one bowl, they’re a deliciously easy dessert that’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free.
Check out this recipe
17
graham cracker being dipped into high protein s'mores dip.
High-Protein S’mores Dip (30g protein!)
This high protein s’mores dip is a quick and easy 4-ingredient recipe with over 30 grams of protein per serving! Made with Greek yogurt, chocolate protein powder, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips – it’s a healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect as a post-workout snack, party dip, or high protein dessert!
Check out this recipe
18
bite taken out of a frozen banana and peanut butter bite.
Frozen Banana and Peanut Butter Bites (4 ingredients!)
Check out this recipe
19
overhead image of pieces of healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark on parchment paper.
Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Chocolate Bark
This healthy strawberry peanut butter chocolate bark is made with just 3 simple ingredients and takes only minutes to prep! It's a delicious no-bake treat that's vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in sugar. Perfect for a freezer-friendly snack or healthy dessert everyone will love!
Check out this recipe
20
healthy milkshake in a glass with whipped cream and a strawberry on top.
4-Ingredient Healthy Milkshake
This healthy milkshake recipe is creamy, dairy-free, and made with just 4 simple ingredients – no banana or ice cream required! Choose from chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry for a naturally sweetened treat you can blend in under 2 minutes. It’s the perfect quick and refreshing dessert or snack that’s vegan, gluten-free, and totally customizable!
Check out this recipe
21
Healthy Strawberry Peanut Butter Cups
These healthy strawberry peanut butter cups are a delicious, no-bake treat made with just 5 simple ingredients. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, they’re perfect for a quick snack or a better-for-you dessert. Easy to customize and bursting with sweet, chocolatey flavor, they’re the ultimate healthy twist on a classic favorite.
Check out this recipe
22
close up image of triple berry crisp with frozen berries in a baking dish.
5-Ingredient Triple Berry Crisp
Effortless and delicious 5-Ingredient Triple Berry Crisp, crafted with frozen mixed berries and a simple, wholesome crisp topping! This fruit crisp is not only simple to make, but also easy to adapt to a variety of diets, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious and healthy dessert!
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hand holding a bowl of single serve peach crisp dessert.
Healthy Single Serve Peach Crisp
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overhead image of chocolate covered strawberry almond flour brownies with a chocolate drizzle and freeze dried strawberries on top.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Almond Flour Brownies
These chocolate covered strawberry brownies are rich, fudgy, and totally delicious! They’re made with almond flour and coconut sugar for a healthier twist, but are still just as indulgent. These are the perfect Valentine’s Day recipe, or any day treat!
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My mom’s been making her FAMOUS strawberry shortcakes every summer for as long as I can remember! Flaky, buttery shortcake biscuits piled high with juicy, fresh strawberries and homemade whipped cream. It’s simple, classic, totally nostalgic, and the perfect summer dessert!

I always thought this recipe seemed more complicated than it actually was, which is why it took me years to try making it myself. But once my mom finally shared it with me, I was genuinely shocked at how simple it is. You don’t need a stand mixer, you don’t need any special equipment, and the whole thing – biscuits, strawberries, and homemade whipped cream – can be on the table in just over an hour! It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is actually pretty simple, which makes it absolutely perfect for summer parties, Fourth of July, and honestly any time you can get your hands on fresh, in-season strawberries. If you love fresh berry-forward desserts like this one, then you’ll want to try my 4-Ingredient Peach Cobbler and 4-Ingredient Baked Peaches next!

Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Shortcakes

  • My mom’s famous recipe! This isn’t just any strawberry shortcake – it’s the one my mom has made every single summer for as long as I can remember, and the first thing I crave every year when the weather warms up. Some recipes are just special, and this one is. I’m so excited to finally share it here!
  • Perfect for summer parties. Flaky biscuits, juicy macerated strawberries, and homemade whipped cream. This is a showstopping dessert that always gets rave reviews, whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a Fourth of July gathering, or a casual dinner party. You can even set up a shortcake bar and let everyone build their own!
  • Amazing during strawberry season. Ripe, in-season strawberries are the star of this recipe, and when they’re at their peak sweetness there is truly nothing better. Macerated in sugar and a little lemon juice, they become incredibly juicy and flavorful in a way that store-bought strawberry sauce just can’t replicate.
  • Feels fancy, but is actually pretty simple. I know shortcake biscuits can sound intimidating, but they’re really just a lightly sweetened, butter-packed dough that comes together in minutes. No mixer or special equipment, just your hands, a bowl, and a baking sheet.
  • Easily made gluten-free! Simply swap the cake flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and you’ve got a completely gluten-free strawberry shortcake that nobody will ever know is different. See the variations section below for all the details!
three plates of strawberry shortcakes with whipped cream and strawberries.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make ahead: The macerated strawberries can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the fridge. The biscuits are best eaten the day they’re baked, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days and warmed slightly before serving. Make the whipped cream fresh just before serving.

Make it gluten-free: Swap the cake flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (I love Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 or King Arthur Measure for Measure) in a 1:1 ratio. The texture may be very slightly different but still absolutely delicious. Just make sure your baking powder is certified gluten-free as well.

Make it dairy-free: Swap the butter in the biscuits for cold vegan butter (Miyoko’s or Earth Balance work great), the heavy cream in the biscuits for full-fat coconut cream, and the heavy cream in the whipped cream for a chilled can of coconut cream. Whip the coconut cream until fluffy — it’s a wonderful dairy-free whipped topping!

Add blueberries: Toss a handful of fresh blueberries into the macerated strawberries for a beautiful red, white, and blue summer dessert. This is especially perfect for Fourth of July!

Swap the fruit: This recipe works beautifully with any summer fruit. Try it with fresh peaches, mixed berries, or a combination of raspberries and strawberries.

close up image of a strawberry shortcake stuffed with whipped cream and strawberries.
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Mom’s BEST Strawberry Shortcakes Recipe 🍓

These strawberry shortcakes are my mom's famous recipe – flaky, buttery biscuits piled high with juicy strawberries and homemade whipped cream, and the first dessert I crave every single summer when fresh berries are at their peak! They feel fancy enough for a summer party but are surprisingly simple to make from scratch, with no mixer or special equipment required. It's a classic strawberry shortcake recipe SO good, everyone will ask for the recipe!
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the strawberries:

  • 6 cups strawberries sliced
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice can sub orange or lime juice

For the shortcakes:

  • 2 cups cake flour or gluten-free all purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 cup cold butter (1 stick)
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream

For the homemade whipped cream:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Toss to combine. Let sit for 1–2 hours to release their juices.
  • Preheat oven to 425°F.
  • Combine the cake flour, salt, baking powder, cream of tartar, and sugar in a large bowl.
  • Cut butter into small bits and add to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or fork, work butter in until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
  • Add the beaten egg and heavy cream and mix with a fork until the mixture just holds together.
  • Turn out onto a well-floured surface and knead by folding over 8–10 times, rotating as you go.
  • Pat into a ½-inch thick rectangle. Cut into 6 larger or 8 smaller equal squares.
  • Place biscuits on a parchment-lined baking sheet (do not grease). Separate biscuits slightly for crispier edges, or place touching for softer sides.
  • Bake 15–20 minutes until light golden brown.
  • While the shortcakes bake, add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to a clean bowl. Whip with a hand or stand mixer until soft peaks form.
  • Slice shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon a generous helping of macerated strawberries onto the bottom half, top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream, place the top half on, and serve immediately. Enjoy!