Ideas for a Dessert & Coffee Party

Be sure to include at least one chocolate item on the menu at your coffee and dessert party.

A dessert and coffee party provides an opportunity for you and your guests to indulge in two legal drugs which will not impair anyone's driving ability. The buzz everyone will experience from the combination of sugar and caffeine ensures that conversation and laughter will flow easily. You can showcase your baking skills, or pick up a few delicious items from a gourmet market. There are rarely any leftovers to contend with post-party when you serve items that appeal to everyone's sweet tooth.

Chocolate

Many people spell dessert c-h-o-c-o-l-a-t-e, so be sure to provide at least one option for the chocoholics in the group. Chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting or double chocolate chip cookies permit guests to sample many different choices by taking small servings of each dessert. If you have a favorite "show-off" recipe for chocolate mudslide cake or homemade chocolate candies or any other rich chocolate indulgence, present it with flair in the center of the table.

Cheesecake

Cheesecake, like chocolate, is a favorite indulgence for many people. You can combine the two in a chocolate cheesecake, or choose any of the many other versions of this dessert: perhaps blueberry, java, pumpkin or amaretto.

Fruit

In case anyone on the guest list has dietary restrictions, whether because of a weight loss program, diabetes or other health condition, offer some naturally sweet fruit. The healthy option will also be appreciated by guests who allow themselves only one rich dessert but still want to nibble while they socialize. You can cut up a selection of fruits in a glass bowl and serve a fruit salad with a yogurt and honey dressing on the side. Or offer a platter with slices of oranges and toothpicks in chunks of pineapple.

Beverages

When coffee is the primary beverage at a gathering, select the best quality your party budget permits. If possible, choose fresh-roasted beans. Offer good quality cream, along with skim milk and raw sugar for people to adjust beverages to their own taste. If you have an espresso machine, bring it out, and offer guests the opportunity to add foamed milk. You may wish to provide decaffeinated coffee as an option for some guests.

There are some people who do not enjoy any type of coffee, so offer a few offer choices. Juice, tea -- both herbal and black, and sparkling water make welcome additions to the menu.

References

• Huffington Post: National Cheesecake Day
• Best Coffee News: Steps to brewing great coffee