Today Show host Joy Bauer’s 9 healthy summer dessert recipes — there’s a ‘gooey comfort food festival’ and boats of marshmallows

YOUR summer is about to reach some delicious heights with some tasty tips from Today Show host Joy Bauer.

Her famous kid-friendly treats and easy slush recipes will have you ready to host your next outdoor party like a pro.

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BANANA S’MORES BOATS

Joy especially enjoys taking summer desserts to decadent new heights.

Their version of banana marshmallows involves taking a banana and slicing it lengthwise, keeping the skin on.

This creates a boat, or container, in which she packs mini marshmallows, strawberry slices, and dark chocolate chips, all loosely wrapped in aluminum foil.

Just throw it on the grill, over a campfire, or even in the oven or air fryer, sit back and enjoy—and don’t be afraid of the mouthwatering mess.

“It’s like a gooey comfort food festival and you eat the gush straight from the banana bowl. Every bite has all the layers,” she told US Sun.

SHAVED PINEAPPLE ICE

A one-ingredient summer dessert will also make entertaining easier.

To recreate your pineapple shaved ice, simply cut solid spheres of pineapple and freeze them.

When ready, thaw one of the spheres, place a microplane over a bowl, and sort it.

You’ll have a “mound of fluffy ice crystal” that melts in your mouth quickly.

MINI WATERMELON CAKES

Another one of their fruity treats will also give you all the fun without the hassle.

After making round, circular pieces of watermelon, she uses whipped cream on top with berries or granola.

“Aerated whipped cream, even just a little, elevates any dessert,” she said.

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FROZEN FRUIT KABOB

A favorite option for kids is frozen fruit skewers.

“Line up chunks of watermelon and honeydew, then add grapes and strawberries and freeze them,” she said.

“It’s a really fun presentation and great for eating by the pool. It’s like you’re eating regular ice cream, but without all the colors and sugars,” she continued.

PINEAPPLE AL MODE

Your pineapple à la mode by cutting into spheres and grilling them, before spraying both sides.

When fully caramelized, transfer to a plate and add frozen yogurt or vanilla ice cream. Instead of caramel on top, she uses a spoonful of peanut butter.

After putting it in the microwave for 15 minutes to let it “drip”, she sprinkles in some crushed peanuts.

Those with peanut allergies don’t need to miss out if they substitute soy butter.

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PARCHMENT FRUIT

Their “parchment” treat is also perfect for summer.

“I take frozen blueberries, raspberries and strawberries and dip them in any berry-flavored Greek yogurt with monk fruit or stevia,” she said.

“I place them in a single row on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer and they are so refreshing.”

For a sweet touch, you can add a piece of chocolate upside down into the raspberry before dipping.

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FROYO PEEL

Likewise, Joy’s Frozen Yogurt Bark is another hit on hot summer days.

“Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper,” she said.

“I’m going to spread Greek yogurt on the baking sheet and spread it out with my spatula. I make a version of strawberry shortcake with strawberries and crushed cookies,” she continued.

“I put it in the freezer, break the shell, put it in the freezer to free up space and take it out when it’s warm in the house.”

You can also make chocolate cherry or lemon zest.

WATERMELON POPS AND TASTY SLUSHIES

If you want to copy their popular watermelon pops, cut circles out of a watermelon, stick a toothpick in it, and add a “skinny” margarita mix—it uses tequila, lime and orange juice instead of triple sec.

“For parties, I take a watermelon, cut it in half and use an ice cream scoop,” she said.

“Then I make balls with the pulp and pour my margarita mix into each of the large watermelon rinds with all the balls and let them saturate.”

Their no-sugar-added slush features frozen cut pineapple chunks and berry-flavored Lacroix sparkling water—and you’ll be sure to get nutrients with every sip.

“Just mix it up and you’d think you were slurping and drinking the sugariest slush in town. It has all the fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants you should be drinking,” she said.

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