Top 10 Summer Cookout-Approved Baking Recipes

Summer brings the kitchen outdoors and a shift in appetites. Salty hot dogs enveloped in soft buns, crisp greens, fresh fruit, grilled pizza crusts and s’more-themed desserts are summer favorites for good reason. And after an abundance of grilled and fresh food, something baked can be a welcome shift.

We’ve rounded up some of our most popular recipes for inspired summer baking, from buns and bread to mouthwatering desserts – ideal for your next summer cookout!

1. Cheesy Herb Hot Dog Buns

When you pair a flame-seared hot dog (or brat) with cheesy, herb-filled buns, you create something that’s downright gourmet. The homemade buns may take a bit more effort than the store-bought variety, but believe us when we say it’s worth it. Double the batch and save the extra for your next weenie roast.

2. Cheesy Herb Burger Buns

Next up is a flavor-filled burger bun. Topped with butter and parmesan, these soft, herbed buns perfectly complement your burger (or chicken breast). They keep well at room temperature for up to three days and freeze well, so you can bake a batch and enjoy them all week.

3. Roasted Tomato Focaccia

Add a pop of color to the table with this flavorful focaccia loaf. With herbs, olive oil and roasted cherry tomatoes, this flavor-filled loaf channels some serious Italian summer vibes. This hearty app or side dish pairs wonderfully with a caprese salad, sausage, cheese, soup and a glass of wine. Go ahead, indulge.

4. Summer Berry Danish Bread

Red, white and blue, this berry- and cream cheese-filled braid is delicious AND beautiful. Bring this patriotic pastry to your neighborhood Fourth of July potluck… it’s a crowd pleaser and so on-theme.

5. Chewy Pretzel Buns

We swear, you can throw anything on a pretzel bun and it’s just better. And when that bun is homemade… watch out. Take your burger or backyard barbecue game up a level with buns that are chewy on the outside and soft on the inside. There’s reason pretzel buns have a cult-like following.

6. Homemade Artisan Grilled Pizza

With a bubbly crust, grill marks and a touch of smokiness, these pizza crusts are truly artisanal. Top it with classics like marinara, cheese and pepperoni or try something a little different like strawberries, balsamic reduction and basil. Get the whole family in on it, and you’ll turn pizza night into an event!

7. Baba Au Rhum

This Bundt cake is moist, rich and a little bit boozy. You can dig right into syrup-infused yeast cake or lighten it up with some whipped cream and fresh strawberries. While it may have originated in Europe, this rum-infused sponge cake will have you dreaming about Caribbean beaches.

8. Everything Spice Pigs in a Blanket

Salty and snack sized, these are great for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer for your next backyard barbecue or a protein-based snack (or meal) for the kids, these pigs in a blanket fit the bill. Don’t skip the Everything Spice – it’s, well, everything.

9. S’more Grilled Pizza

Is it even a bonfire if you don’t have a s’more? While we love the classic, there’s a lot to love about this artisanal spin on the campfire treat: 1) It serves a crowd. 2) It’s cooked on the grill. 3) It uses classic s’more ingredients + a dusting of powdered sugar. We predict you’ll be making this summer dessert on repeat.

10. Homemade Berry Fritters

Soft, berry filled fried dough that’s dunked in a creamy strawberry glaze (made with real strawberries) – this pastry screams summer brunch. Pack these delightful berry fritters for your next camping trip for an easy breakfast treat.

Looking for more yeast baking ideas to freshen up the menu this summer? Find more irresistible recipes.