HOLIDAY PARTY INSPO: HOW TO SET UP A DESSERT BAR
I absolutely LOVE throwing holiday parties. Instead of your standard get together, one of my favorite ways to celebrate the holidays is by putting together a dessert buffet! I’m going to share all of my tips, tricks and holiday party inspo and show you guys how to set up a dessert bar!
HOW TO SET UP A DESSERT BAR
I was so excited to collaborate with Sara Lee Desserts and deck our bar area out with tasty treats!
Sara Lee Deserts is a staple in our family. I remember browsing the dessert section during the holidays and getting to pick out my favorite Sara Lee pie for parties. In addition to their famous pies, they also make cheesecakes, pound cakes, cakes & sweet breakfast items.
Since Sara Lee Desserts are a time-honored tradition in my home and so many others, they’re the perfect pick for putting together a decadent dessert buffet!
Dessert bars are a great idea for a holiday party, but also a fun option for birthday parties, movie nights, bridal showers, baby showers, etc.
What You need:
This is the tricky part… deciding which desserts to buy! There are so many mouth watering options. I went with:
- Pecan Coffee Cake
- All Butter Pound Cake
- New York Style Chocolate Peppermint Cheesecake
- New York Style Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake
- Apple Pie
The best way to pick an assortment is pick out your “spot” that you’ll be serving desserts and get a headcount of the number of guests you’re hosting. From there, pick out an assortment of flavors and varieties so that everyone can find something they like.
I also picked up single serving slices of cheesecake and put them into little margarita glasses. You can use any cups, but margarita or martini glasses are really cute for presentation. Then, your guests can add toppings eat them while mingling!
A few fun topping ideas:
- Berries
- Chocolate Sauce
- Caramel Sauce
- Whipped Cream
- Sprinkles
- Nuts
- Peanut Butter Candies
- Marshmallow Creme
- Crushed Cookies
- Crushed Graham Crackers
- Miniature Marshmallows
How to Set up Your Dessert Bar
I like to use our bar area for setting up themed buffets. But you can use any countertop area, kitchen island, coffee table or portable table.
You’ll want to get a variety of plates, platters & cake stands. I like using stands of different heights and finding pieces that are made of different materials. I like using cutting boards to add texture too. The 3 tiered cake stand I have is great for putting a few desserts and some toppings on.
After you’ve figured out an arrangement, you’ll want to add some holiday decorations. I used a plaid table runner, some glittery branches, pine tree sprigs, miniature LED trees and a few ornaments to fill in gaps.
Be sure to check the instructions on each dessert you buy. Some need to be baked while others need to thaw before serving. I like to get everything baked & thawed a few hours before people arrive, that way I’m not stressed out and can decorate after everything is set out.
You can also put out some drinks. Depending on the time of day, you can pair your desserts with coffee & hot chocolate. Or wine and spiked cider!
I love how quick and easy it is to set up. Sara Lee Desserts make it even easier because you don’t have to worry about mixing anything, tricky ingredients or a ton of dishes. It’s basically fool proof. But still look and taste amazing while serving as a fun and creative party highlight.
This post is in collaboration with Sara Lee Desserts.
