How to make the most of delicious summer fruits

From the first crimson strawberries, to apricots, tropical mangoes, tart raspberries and more, the summer months are filled with juicy berries and stone fruits. Although perfect eaten in their natural state, they’re also incredibly versatile ingredients and can be used to make fruity bakes, cakes, drinks and even add extra depths of flavour to savoury dishes. Learn how to make the most of delicious summer fruits while they’re at their best with the top tips below.

From simple bakes...

Add colour, freshness and fantastic flavour to your bakes with fresh British berries and cherries. Keep it simple with a batch of classic blueberry muffins or try a retro twist with this cherry Bakewell muffin recipe – the berries keep the sponge moist and add delicious bursts of flavour to every bite. An easy traybake is great for packing up on a picnic, and this berry bake with ready-made croissant dough is a great example of something that can be whipped up in a jiffy.
...to stunning centrepieces

If you're feeling a bit more ambitious, this stunning Pimm’s layer cake, piled high with fresh strawberries makes an impressive summer centrepiece, while a simple blueberry compote is perfect for filling this beautiful poke cake, the jammy mixture runs down holes you ‘poke’ into the cake. Towards the end of summer, make the most of tart, juicy blackberries in these black velvet cupcakes, in an update on red velvet cake. The juicy dark berries are the ideal complement to the rich chocolate.
Brilliant breakfasts and brunches

A fruity start to the day is sure to set you off on the right foot, so why not include your favourite summer fruits in your breakfast. Bake a batch of simple granola to get you through the week then mix it up each day with your choice of fresh berries or chopped stone fruit – we love chopped apricots with sliced almonds or halved strawberries with a dollop of vanilla yogurt. For an even healthier option, these layered raspberry chia puddings are quick and easy to prepare and can be made in advance, too. For a more indulgent weekend brunch, you can’t beat sweet, fluffy pancakes. These banana and spelt pancakes are a wholesome take on the classic American blueberry pancakes, while this exotic mango, lime and coconut version celebrates the tropical fruit while it's at its most juicy during the summer months.
Stock up the freezer

Fresh berries are best eaten fresh and won’t keep for very long, so if you have a glut make the most of your freezer. For best results, spread your berries over a baking tray to keep separate and place uncovered in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer to resealable bags or freezerproof boxes to store. They can be whizzed into delicious smoothies, or for a super simple dessert, you can’t beat frozen berries with a hot, rich chocolate sauce poured over.
Chilled out treats

When the sun’s out, a stash of frozen fruity treats will help you cool down. Have a go at making your own ice cream at home with these easy no-churn ice cream recipes – cherry ripple with a boozy kick, or creamy blackberry and lemon cheesecake. Or indulge your inner child with a retro ice lolly; a simple mould can be filled with any number of combinations, such as sweet peaches and cream or tart blackberries and milk. Keep the kids happy too with a simple frozen yogurt bark, this recipe is topped with juicy blueberries but you could vary with whatever fruit you fancy.
Thirst-quenching drinks and summer tipples

Hosting a summer gathering or barbecue? Making your own fruity drinks and cocktails is a great way to ensure your events stand out. Not only will they be refreshing and delicious, but using fresh fruit adds intense flavour and vibrancy. You can’t go wrong with the summer classic of Pimm’s and lemonade topped with sliced strawberries and cucumber, but there's nothing to stop you experimenting with other fruits, too. A slushie is great fun to make: simply blitz berries and cherries with ice in a blender for instant refreshment, or take some Spanish influence with this cherry Sangria-style cocktail. Top up puréed fruit with sparkling wine or Champagne for a classic Bellini. For a non-alcoholic version, try this refreshing peach and basil agua fresca.
Super summer salads

Summer fruits can work wonders in savoury dishes, too, adding a hit of sweetness to many dishes. Keep things fresh with a summery salad such as this griddled peach and beetroot recipe, where the lightly charred fruit takes on a gorgeous smoky depth. Cherries also make an unusual but delicious addition to this fennel salad recipe. For something a little more portable, this layered chicken and nectarine salad is perfect for a picnic or lunch on the go.
Spicy salsas and slaws

For something a little different, try adding a little spice to your fruit to make a tangy salsa or slaw to complement your main meal. Vibrant mango adds a real hit of sunshine to any plate, and teamed with avocado and coriander in this salsa is a delicious accompaniment to this fragrant cumin sea bass. Mango and avocado are also perfect partners in this coconut slaw from our Hawaiian chicken recipe, while the crispness of nectarine pairs brilliantly with basil for a really refreshing salsa to match grilled prawn skewers.
Delicious desserts

A fresh, fruity dessert is the perfect finishing touch for a special summer meal without being too rich or heavy. Keep things simple with a dessert which puts fruit centre stage such as these glorious roasted cherries. Paired with a thick dark chocolate sauce, they make the perfect sharing dessert. Give jelly a grown-up makeover with a touch of bubbly prosecco in this gooseberry and elderflower jelly recipe, which pairs the tart fruit with sweet floral notes. Throwing a large gathering? Mini cheesecakes tick all the boxes; these ones topped with juicy strawberries can be made in just 30 minutes, too.
Preserving for later

Making your own jam is a great way to ensure you’ve always got a taste of summer to hand, whatever the weather outside! Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make strawberry jam and ensure you get perfect conserve every time. For kids, fruit leather makes a great chewy snack and keeps well for easy nibbles on the go. Don’t be put off by the long cooking time – all that’s required is a bit of blitzing before drying out in a cool oven for a few hours.

How to make the most of delicious summer fruits

From simple bakes...

...to stunning centrepieces

Brilliant breakfasts and brunches

Stock up the freezer

Chilled out treats

Thirst-quenching drinks and summer tipples

Super summer salads

Spicy salsas and slaws

Delicious desserts

Preserving for later