Entertaining the Easy Way: Gourmet Brew and Creamy Cheesecake
Think back to the carefree films of the 1930s, forties or fifties. Picture the social event that became the turning point of the movie’s romantic plot. Men and women in formal attire converse only in clever banter and dance with swirling grace. In their hands, an elegant martini. These days, we tend to socialize much more casually, even if we might still attempt clever dialogue.
Most of us don’t have acquaintances with opulent 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 happy (or romantic) in tuxedos as in open shirts. Exquisite coffee and dessert may be more appropriate ingredients for the relaxed social events of our times.
The bakery around the corner has perfectly acceptable cheesecake, perhaps purchased from a local distributor, but you might want to opt for something a bit more interesting for the taste buds of your friends. You might have gourmet cheesecake delivered to your door the day of your party from as far away as across the country.
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 nice alternative would be a strawberry or blueberry cheesecake for your friends who enjoy a fruitier taste. You might want to venture to one of the more unusual berries such as Marionberry, unique to the Pacific Northwest. If you opt for the tarter flavors, you can decorate with a mint sprig.
Some of your guests might have some dietary restrictions (or have more self discipline than many of us). For those friends, include a gourmet low carb, sugar free cheesecake alternative. While that might not be considered a health food, it allows splurging within acceptable limits. An orange wedge makes a healthy addition to this plate.
Create some labels for each of your alternatives, so your guests can can know their choices without having to ask.
Borrow some extra coffee makers, so that you can offer several coffees. Choose one of the interestingly flavored roasts. Add to that a robust, non-flavored alternative from Jamaica, perhaps. Of course, don’t forget the decaf for anyone staying away from caffeine.
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 casual and delicious evening such as this is the twenty-first century replacement for the cocktail party. Plus, you can be confident that your beloved guests will get home safely.
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Tags: berry cheesecake, gourmet cheesecake, key lime cheesecake, turtle cheesecake