Creating a Stunning DIY Dessert Bar on a Budget
You want a big dessert bar, but you have a small budget. Don’t worry—you can definitely make it happen! A DIY dessert bar is a perfect way to showcase a variety of treats without breaking the bank, especially if you’re hosting a smaller party or have specific desserts you’d love to feature, such as a special family recipe.
Here are five ideas for your next DIY dessert bar:
Mini Cupcakes 🧁 Whether you buy these from a bakery, the grocery store, or make them yourself, mini cupcakes are perfect for dessert bars. Their small size means they don’t take up a lot of space on the table, and guests can indulge in them and other treats without feeling overwhelmed by the size and variety. Plus, their petite size allows for offering multiple flavors.
Brownies and Bars 🍫 Classic desserts are always a hit and easy to make, even from a box mix. Elevate simple brownies by adding toppings such as sprinkles, Oreos, or candy (hello Reese’s and Heath toffee!). For variety, include lemon bars or blondies as an alternative to rich, decadent brownies.
Cookies 🍪 Cookies are one of my FAVORITE things to add to any dessert spread. Guests love them because they are easy to eat, not messy, and they can grab a cookie and keep partying—no need for forks or plates. Cookies come in a variety of flavors, adding amazing variety to your dessert table. Both kids and adults love cookies, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Candy 🍬 Candy is a super easy addition that looks great on the table and is a surefire win for your dessert bar. Consider different types of candy to add lots of variety—mini Reese’s, M&M’s, gummy candies, and chocolate-dipped pretzels. Simply place them in nice containers for a visually appealing display.
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit 🍓 Chocolate-dipped fruit is refreshing and decadent at the same time. Opt for a variety of fruits that will hold up throughout your party—strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and orange slices. Slice them, dip them in melted chocolate (I recommend Guittard or Ghirardelli melting wafers for the best texture and flavor), and keep them in the fridge until party time.
Next time you have an event, consider adding a few of these to your dessert table to make it full and robust, or try all of them yourself for an awesome DIY dessert bar.
