Think back to the carefree films of the 1930s, forties or fifties. Picture the social gathering that became the turning point of the movie’s romantic plot. Men and women in formal attire converse only in clever banter and waltz with swirling grace. In their hands, an elegant martini. These days, we tend to entertain much more casually, even if we might still attempt clever dialogue.
Most of us don’t have friends with magnificent mansions; neither do we have the budgets that allow us to bring home many bottles of imported gin and tin after tin of beluga caviar. Furthermore, we not as comfortable in tuxedos as in unbuttoned shirts. Specialty coffee and a luscious dessert may be more appropriate ingredients for the relaxed social evenings of our times.
Your neighborhood certainly has a local bakery that sells cheesecake, or you might explore a little farther from home to find something that all of your guest don’t already experience in their everyday lives. You can have a selection of truly exquisite cheesecake delivered right to your home from across the country or a different part of your state.
Consider a selection of cheesecakes to meet the varied tastes of your guests. You might want to include a turtle cheesecake for the people who enjoy a bit of chocolate in any dessert. You can decorate with just a few shavings of dark chocolate, and all the people can pretend that they are eating a health food.
A key lime cheesecake, provides a welcome alternative for those of us who enjoy combining tart and sweet. Think about a couple mint leaves as a garnish.
Don’t overlook those who are interested in splurging without sacrificing their dietary restrictions too much. Magnificent sugar free, low carb cheesecakes are available with tastes and textures that can rival their traditional counterparts. Add a couple berries or a thin slice of fresh pear.
Create some labels for each of your alternatives, so your guests can can know their choices without having to ask.
Of course, you’ll want to include a robust decaf option. In addition choose to present just one interestingly flavored coffee. Add to that a bold roast from Jamaica or Columbia.
Keep the cream, non-fat milk and non-dairy creamer in an ice bath in a shallow, decorative bowl. Throw in some cubed sugar with sterling silver tongs, for a decorative touch.
A gourmet evening such as this is the twenty-first century equivalent of the cocktail party. Plus, you can be confident that your beloved guests will get home safely.
