This is my favorite part! Cheesecake. Chocolate Mousse cake. Cream Puffs. I could go on . . .
I think this is the part of the meal I dreaded most, from the preparation standpoint.
Obviously, you DON’T want to be baking a cake while your guests are there. You want to make this in advance.
Not one for being intimidated by the kitchen, I decided on not one but TWO desserts – Black Forrest Cheesecake and Banana Crunch Cake. Two very different but equally good (in my opinion) desserts.
These I knew would take me some time to make, so I made them on the two previous nights before the dinner party. I believe that cheesecakes taste better after sitting a day or two, so I made that one first.
After everyone has finished their dinner, it’s time to clear the table to get set for dessert and coffee. Just be sure everyone is actually finished before clearing plates!
If you are eating in a room other than the kitchen, then take the dirty dishes to the kitchen and just stack ‘em up for now. You can clean after everyone’s gone.
Just two things, though – if anyone offers to help, kindly and gently turn them down. They’re there to enjoy themselves, not work.
Tip: Anyone who bakes will tell you that baking can be tricky and time consuming. If baking is not your strong suit, then I would recommend going to a GOOD bakery to buy yourdesserts.
On your first trip to the kitchen make the coffee.
Now, if you’ve done your research, you may also need tea, or leave the wine out – whatever.
Or how about a nice liquor for the coffee, such as Amaretto or Crème de Cocoa or Irish Cream.
Before bringing out the desserts, if they are indeed cakes or pies, I like to pre-slice a few pieces. I do this because sometimes, people don’t want to be the first to cut a piece. And, it’s just easier to start the serving.
As for the coffee, bring out the pot (or better yet, a carafe if you have one) along with the cream and sugar. I let my guests pour their own coffee.
The main reason this is my favorite part of the evening (aside from the dessert itself) is that this is the part where everyone just relaxes and talks.
This is what I have these parties for – friends (or family) gathering to talk.
Tip: I like to get the coffee ready for brewing before the guests arrive. Usually, as I am cooking, I will set up the coffee pot, fill the sugar bowl and creamer, and maybe (if you have the room) stack the cups and saucers in a convenient spot.
Let’s Sum It Up
