When you’re entertaining, you need to consider some dessert options. Here are some ideas for items you can pick up to make your entertaining a bit smoother, and definitely more delicious.
- Bakery department shortcuts: Premade bakery items are ideal to get creative (and save time) in the dessert category. Buy items like shortcakes, angel food cake or pound cake, then whip your own whipped cream and top with fresh berries. Elegant, simple and easy for a crowd.
- Family-sized ice cream: Is there anything more fun than an ice cream sundae bar? Buy a couple gallons of ice cream (maybe in a couple different flavors for fun) and then go wild in the baking aisle with chocolate chips, sprinkles, hot fudge and caramel sauces. Everyone can make their own sundae, so it’s sure to be a hit.
- Flour, sugar, eggs and butter: Get baking! Entertaining screams for pies, tarts, cakes, cookies and brownies. If you’re entertaining midweek, try baking on the Sunday before when you have a bit more time. Homemade desserts are easy to make ahead. Check out FoodNetwork.com for endless sweet-tooth ideas.
With these grocery shopping ideas, you’re not only going to look like a calm and collected host, you’re going to have fun while you do it. And don’t forget to ask for help. When your guests call and ask what they can bring, task them with a dessert, a bottle of wine or even a portable side dish. Happy entertaining!
Before you head to the store, make sure your pantry is stocked, and check out more smart shopping strategies and recipe ideas from Food Network.
Written by Katie Allen, Food Network Kitchens Culinary Producer
