When throwing a party, dessert is crucial to ensure the event is a success. Whether it's a birthday celebration, a bridal shower, or a dinner party, a delicious dessert can bring a sweet ending to the festivities. But with so many options available, choosing the suitable desserts to serve can be overwhelming.
In this blog post, we'll explore classic party desserts that never go out of style, creative desserts that impress your guests, and dietary restriction-friendly desserts that everyone can enjoy. We'll also share some tips for serving and presenting desserts that guarantee your guests a sweet time. So get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and elevate your party game with these party desserts!
Classic Party Desserts
Classic party desserts are always a hit and a safe choice to serve at any gathering. Cakes, cupcakes, and brownies are among the most popular options, and for a good reason.
Chocolate Cake
Chocolate cake is a classic favorite that can please a crowd. Its rich and decadent flavor can satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings. Vanilla cake, on the other hand, is a versatile choice that can be decorated in various ways to fit any party theme. Red velvet cake has a unique and vibrant color that adds a festive touch to any occasion.
Cupcakes
Cupcakes are a convenient option for serving at parties as they are easy to grab and go. Chocolate cupcakes are perfect for those who prefer something chocolatey, while vanilla cupcakes are a classic flavor that appeals to almost everyone. Finally, lemon cupcakes are a refreshing and zesty option that can be an excellent choice for spring or summer parties.
Brownies
Brownies are another classic dessert that can please a crowd. Classic brownies are dense, fudgy, and chocolatey, while blondies are made with brown sugar instead of chocolate, giving them a caramel-like flavor. On the other hand, Fudgy brownies are even more decadent and more chocolatey than classic brownies, making them a perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers.
Creative Party Desserts
If you want to impress your guests with something a little more unique, creative party desserts are a great way to do it. Creative party desserts are a great way to add variety and excitement to any gathering. Whether it's mini desserts, dessert bars, or fancy desserts, plenty of options will leave your guests feeling impressed and satisfied.
Mini Desserts
Mini desserts are not only adorable but also offer a variety of flavors for guests to try. Mini cheesecakes are a creamy and indulgent option that can be topped with fruit or chocolate drizzle. Mini pies are a great way to showcase seasonal flavors, like apple or pumpkin, in the fall. Mini bundt cakes are also fun and elegant, topped with glaze or frosting.
Dessert Bars
Dessert bars are a crowd-pleasing option that offers a variety of flavors in one bite. For example, Blondie bars are an excellent choice for those who love caramel and butterscotch flavors, while rice krispie treats offer a fun and playful twist on the classic dessert. Magic bars, also known as seven-layer bars, are a sweet and crunchy option that includes coconut, chocolate, and nuts.
Fancy Desserts
For a more upscale option, fancy desserts can elevate any party. Macarons are delicate French treats in various flavors and colors, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table. Éclairs are also a classic French dessert that can be filled with cream or pastry cream and topped with chocolate ganache. Fruit tarts are a refreshing and colorful option filled with pastry cream and topped with fresh fruit.
Dietary-Restriction Friendly Desserts
It's essential to consider dietary restrictions when planning desserts for a party. Luckily, there are plenty of options for gluten-free, vegan, and sugar-free desserts that can be just as delicious as their traditional counterparts.
For those who are gluten-free, flourless chocolate cake is a decadent and rich option that is naturally gluten-free. Gluten-free cupcakes and brownies are also widely available and can be made with alternative flours like almond or coconut flour.
Vegan desserts are also an excellent option for those who avoid animal products. For example, the vegan chocolate cake can be made with ingredients like avocado, coconut milk, or applesauce for a rich and moist texture. Vegan cupcakes and brownies can also be made with ingredients like flax eggs or aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as a substitute for eggs.
Sugar-free desserts can still be sweet and satisfying for those who need to watch their sugar intake. For example, the sugar-free chocolate cake can be made with alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit. Likewise, sugar-free cupcakes and brownies can be made with sugar substitutes like erythritol or xylitol.
Tips for Serving Party Desserts
When it comes to serving party desserts, presentation is key. Here are a few tips to help make your desserts look as delicious as they taste.
- Disposable cake stands: Displaying your desserts on a tiered cake stand makes them look more appealing and saves space on the dessert table. Consider using disposable cake stands for easy cleanup.
- Decorations: Adding decorative touches to your desserts can make them stand out. Use colorful sprinkles, fresh fruit, or edible flowers to add color and interest to your desserts.
- Plating: Using fancy plastic cake plates and mini disposable flatware can make even simple desserts look more elegant. Also, consider using a disposable cutter/lifter for easy serving.
- Labeling: If any of your desserts have nuts, dairy, or other common allergens, label them accordingly. This will help guests with dietary restrictions avoid any potential allergens.
By presenting your desserts in an attractive and inviting way, you'll create a more memorable experience for your guests. These tips will help your desserts look as good as they taste and make your party a success.
Timing & Quantity
Timing and quantity are important factors to consider when serving party desserts. Here are some tips to help you make sure your desserts are served at their best and in the right quantities.
- Serving hot vs. cold desserts: Some desserts are best served hot, like brownies or apple pie, while others are served chilled, like cheesecake or fruit tarts. Be sure to plan ahead and serve your desserts at the right temperature.
- Timing the baking: If you're making your desserts from scratch, make sure to time the baking, so they're ready to serve when your guests arrive. This will ensure that your desserts are fresh and delicious.
- Making ahead: Many desserts can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer until ready to serve. Cheesecakes, for example, can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Quantity: When determining the number of servings, consider the number of guests you're expecting and how much dessert each person will likely eat. A good rule of thumb is to have at least one dessert per guest.
- Variety of desserts: Offering a variety of desserts ensures something for everyone. Consider having a mix of classic and creative desserts and some dietary restriction-friendly options.
- Leftovers: If you end up with leftover desserts, consider sending them home with guests or storing them in the freezer for later. Many desserts can be frozen and enjoyed at a later date.
No party is complete without a sweet treat. Party desserts have endless possibilities, from classic favorites to creative and dietary restriction-friendly options. By considering factors like presentation, timing, and quantity, you can ensure that your desserts are served at their best and that there's enough for everyone to enjoy. So whether you're hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or a dinner party, include some of these delicious desserts that guarantee a sweet time. Your guests will thank you, and your party will be a success!