18 Sweet Yellow Squash Dessert Easy Recipes

Sweet and savory, yellow squash is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. While it’s commonly used in soups, stews, and casseroles, yellow squash also makes a delicious base for sweet treats. In this collection of 18 easy recipes, we’ll explore the many ways you can use yellow squash to create mouthwatering desserts that are perfect for any time of year.

From classic yellow squash pie with cinnamon to innovative recipes like golden squash cheesecake bars and yellow squash cobbler with pecan crumble, there’s something for everyone in this sweet and satisfying lineup. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for new ideas to impress your friends and family, these desserts are sure to please even the most discerning palates.

Yellow Squash Spice Cake

This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect way to enjoy the sweet taste of yellow squash during its peak season. The addition of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger gives it an extra boost of flavor.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pureed yellow squash (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, and yellow squash puree. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Yellow Squash Bread Pudding

This moist and flavorful bread pudding is a perfect way to use up ripe yellow squash and leftover bread. A hint of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to this sweet treat, making it a delightful dessert for any season.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large yellow squash, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, squash, sugar, cream, eggs, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Yellow Squash Pie with Cinnamon

This classic pie recipe combines the natural sweetness of yellow squash with the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch gathering!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked and mashed yellow squash
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add mashed squash and stir until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and heavy cream until smooth.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the squash mixture and mix until smooth.
6. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
7. Fill pie crust with squash mixture and smooth top.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Golden Squash Cheesecake Bars

These bars combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the richness of cheesecake, making them a perfect fall dessert.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and pumpkin puree.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; mix until combined.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Yellow Squash Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of yellow squash with the tanginess of cream cheese frosting, perfect for a sunny day.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup cooked and mashed yellow squash
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, squash, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, to taste

Mix cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar to taste. Top cooled cupcakes with frosting.

Cook Time: 18-20 minutes

Yellow Squash Cobbler with Pecan Crumble

This warm-weather cobbler is a refreshing twist on the classic dessert, featuring tender yellow squash and a crunchy pecan crumble topping.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté squash slices in butter until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
4. Add heavy cream to dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter over cooked squash in the skillet.
6. Sprinkle pecan crumble topping (see below) evenly over the cobbler.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Pecan Crumble Topping:

1. Mix together chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl.
2. Spread mixture evenly over the cobbler before baking.

Sweet Yellow Squash Muffins

Sweet Yellow Squash Muffins Recipe Summary:

Enjoy a delicious and moist muffin bursting with the natural sweetness of yellow squash, perfectly balanced by a hint of spice.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup pureed yellow squash (about 1 medium-sized squash)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and pureed yellow squash. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Sprinkle tops with cinnamon and nutmeg.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Enjoy your Sweet Yellow Squash Muffins!

Yellow Squash Blondies with Brown Sugar Glaze

These unique blondies combine the natural sweetness of yellow squash with the richness of brown sugar glaze, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium yellow squash, grated
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups (325g) all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
– Brown Sugar Glaze (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add grated squash and flour mixture to the wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Brown Sugar Glaze:

1. Whisk together 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. Drizzle glaze over warm blondies. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.

Yellow Squash Dessert Bread

This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of yellow squash with warm spices, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With its subtle flavor and tender crumb, this dessert bread is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked yellow squash
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked squash, sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Yellow Squash Ice Cream with Caramel Swirl

Discover the surprise hit of summer – a creamy, dreamy ice cream infused with the subtle sweetness of yellow squash. This unique flavor combination is elevated by a rich caramel swirl that adds depth and indulgence.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cooked, mashed yellow squash
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought), for swirl

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat; stir in mashed squash and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, drizzle caramel sauce into the mixture to create a swirl effect.
6. Transfer churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None (chilling and freezing)

Yellow Squash Cookies with Lemon Glaze

A sweet and tangy twist on traditional sugar cookies, these Yellow Squash Cookies are perfect for a springtime treat or as a unique addition to your holiday cookie platter.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup yellow squash puree (canned or cooked fresh)
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Lemon Glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add squash puree, egg, and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and baking powder; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing.
7. For the Lemon Glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Yellow Squash Crisp with Oat Topping

This classic dessert gets a seasonal twist with the addition of yellow squash, adding natural sweetness and moisture to the dish. The oat topping adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine squash slices, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Toss until the squash is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the squash mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the melted butter and stir until crumbly.
5. Top the squash with the oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and the topping is golden brown.

Yellow Squash Donuts with Vanilla Glaze

Add a touch of sunshine to your day with these delightful yellow squash donuts, topped with a sweet and creamy vanilla glaze. This unique dessert combines the natural sweetness of summer squash with the warmth of a tender donut.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked and mashed yellow squash
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Vanilla glaze (recipe below)

Donut Instructions:

1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add mashed squash, milk, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Using a piping bag or spoon, drop batter into hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
5. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Vanilla Glaze:

1. Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons whole milk until smooth.
2. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Drizzle glaze over cooled donuts.

Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (10-12 minutes for frying, plus glazing)

Yellow Squash Pancakes with Maple Syrup

These fluffy pancakes are a perfect way to enjoy the sweetness of yellow squash during the summer months. Top them off with pure maple syrup for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 medium-sized yellow squash, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for greasing the pan
– Maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add grated squash, milk, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with vegetable oil if needed.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve warm with maple syrup, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Yellow Squash Tart with Honey Drizzle

Celebrate the sweetness of summer with this delectable yellow squash tart, perfectly balanced by a drizzle of warm honey. This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange squash slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Drizzle melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper over the squash.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush top crust with honey and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Yellow Squash Cinnamon Rolls

Brighten up your breakfast or brunch with these sweet and savory yellow squash cinnamon rolls. The subtle sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg.

Ingredients:

– 1 medium-sized yellow squash, grated
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. Add grated squash, warm water, yeast, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and nutmeg.
6. Roll up the dough tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place in prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Yellow Squash Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring the natural sweetness of yellow squash. The brown butter frosting adds a rich and nutty flavor that complements the cake perfectly.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated yellow squash
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Brown Butter Frosting (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add eggs, melted butter, and grated squash. Whisk until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Brown Butter Frosting:

1. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Use to frost the cooled cake.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Yellow Squash Pudding with Whipped Cream

This creamy pudding is a perfect way to enjoy the sweetness of yellow squash during its peak season. With a hint of nutmeg and topped with fluffy whipped cream, this dessert is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked yellow squash
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large egg yolks

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine squash, sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in heavy cream and egg yolks until well combined.
5. Pour into 6 (6-ounce) ramekins or cups.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
7. Allow to cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, top with whipped cream.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Sweeten up your dessert game with these 18 scrumptious yellow squash recipes! From classic cakes and pies to creative cheesecakes and muffins, we’ve got you covered. Try making a Yellow Squash Spice Cake or a Golden Squash Cheesecake Bar for a unique twist on traditional desserts. Or, if you’re in the mood for something sweet and comforting, whip up a batch of Yellow Squash Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting or Yellow Squash Cobbler with Pecan Crumble. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got the perfect recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth!