Cheesecake Finishes an Evening of Casual Entertaining
It is certainly not yet time to declare the old fashioned cocktail party of the mid-twentieth century is a thing of the past, but there is a recent trend in entertaining toward less formal affairs. Remember Clark Gable or Fred Astaire, dressed in their tuxedos; or consider Betty Grable in her flowing gown. They gathered in an opulent estate, sipped martinis and danced throughout the night. Can you really imagine your friends, neighbors or family members relaxing in such an environment and actually being thrilled about it?
Gourmet coffee accompanied by a slice of delicate cheesecake better represents contemporary times. That combination seems much better suited to an era in which men have discovered that an open collar is much more pleasant than a bow tie and cumber bund. Furthermore, the cost for such an event can stay well under the cost of several bottles of imported gin, a little vermouth and fresh caviar served with gold spoons.
The bakery on the next street has perfectly acceptable cheesecake, perhaps purchased from a local distributor, but you might want to opt for something a bit more titillating to the taste buds of your guests. You can have unique cheesecake delivered to your door the day of your party from as far away as across the country.
Remember that people’s tastes vary, so provide a choice of cheesecake flavors. Offer a gourmet turtle cheesecake for the chocolate lovers on your guest list. Add a few walnuts and some dark chocolate shavings to the plate.
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.
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.
Tastefully label these alternatives on the buffet so everyone can choose a slice of heaven that fits their own tolerance for sin.
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.
This is the type of informal entertaining that does not sacrifice the good taste (and lively conversation) that has always been the special ingredient for any social event in any era. Besides, there is no morning hangover the next day. Doesn’t this sound more contemporary to you?
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Tags: berry cheesecake, gourmet cheesecake, key lime cheesecake, turtle cheesecake
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