Dessert Ideas

From banana pudding to ice cream bars -- there are so many sweet choices to consider besides a traditional cake! (expert advice)

 

photo by Union Photography

 

There aren't too many people that don't love dessert. Wedding cake, however, may not be at the top of everyone's list of favorites. Unique dessert ideas are becoming big hits at modern wedding receptions and can actually help you manage your budget if you want to order a smaller wedding cake. If you're planning an afternoon reception, an all-dessert menu could save both time and money without being a bit inappropriate!

Things to Consider

Whether you're planning a full-course meal or intend to serve a selection of finger foods at your reception, there are a few things to think about when you're deciding on the best dessert ideas.

• Formal wedding receptions tend to go over best with elegant, catered desserts. Unique cakes or puddings, fruit trays with chocolate fondue, or a rich flan are good choices. Your caterer should be able to offer other suggestions.
• Themed weddings call for themed menus and, of course, themed desserts. A garden party reception could be complemented with assorted petit fours and teacake while a culturally inspired event should feature ethnic dessert selections.
• There's nothing wrong with including your favorite dessert on the menu either. If you're not a big cake fan but adore banana pudding, serve banana pudding! Ask your fiancé, parents, and bridal party for input as well.

Fun and Unique Dessert Ideas

Desserts can play a big part in your wedding reception and are often as memorable as the wedding cake. These ideas could be the ending of a perfect reception:

• The Ice Cream Bar. Even if you're not hiring a caterer, you can usually rent soft-serve ice cream machines. Offer your guests a couple different flavors, along with bowls and spoons and an array of toppings. Chocolate, caramel, and strawberry sauces, fresh fruits, sprinkles, whipped cream, nuts, and cherries will help guests create their dream sundaes. This is a great dessert choice if there are a lot of children on your guest list, but the grownups will love it too!

• Cookie Buffet. Ordinary cookies can make an intriguing display at your reception. It's also easy to set up and not too messy for guests and cleanup. Gingerbread bride and groom cookies make an adorable centerpiece, surrounded by plates of chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal, and all your other favorites. Include a sugar free selection if you have guests with restricted diets.

There are endless possibilities for reception desserts! You can cater your wedding desserts or you may decide to ask a few friends or relatives to bake up a few treats to make your reception unique. Whatever you decide, I'm sure your guests will be in dessert heaven!