When planning a menu for a special event, don't forget the desserts. End the gathering on a sweet note by treating guests to a catered dessert after the meal. 

You can either opt to make the goodies yourself or hire a catering company to do the job for you, depending on your event budget and the size of your guest list. If you decide to have it catered, make sure the company you choose specializes in desserts. For some specialty items, such as birthday and wedding cakes, you may have to hire a bakery. 

You may be able to get a deal if you choose to have either lunch or dinner, as well as the dessert, catered by the same company. If you're holding the event during a busy time of year, such as the summer wedding or winter holiday season, secure the catering company as far in advance as possible.

No matter what type of special event you're hosting, from intimate gatherings to large fetes, desserts are always appropriate. In some cases, you may just choose to serve coffee and dessert, rather than a full meal. Consider serving desserts at birthday parties, holiday celebrations, bridal and baby showers, family reunions, and wedding receptions. 

Here are some delicious dessert catering ideas to get you started:

1. Ice Cream Bar 

Guests of all ages will have fun creating their own desserts at an ice cream bar. On a long buffet-style table, set up sundae bowls, long-handled spoons, and a selection of different ice cream flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and caramel swirl.

Include a mix of traditional and fun toppings to appeal to both kids and adults, depending on who will be in attendance. Some ideas include hot fudge and caramel sauces, fresh fruits such as bananas, blueberries, and strawberries, or sprinkles, whipped cream, and gummy candies. You can customize the candy to match the event theme, such as fish-shaped gummies for an under-the-sea-inspired party.

2. Caramel Apple Buffet

Ideal for fall events, caramel apple buffets make fun, interactive dessert options. Provide either whole apples featuring inserted sticks, or sliced apples and skewers for dipping. Be sure to soak cut apples in a lemon water solution to prevent them from turning brown.

On a buffet-style table, set up heated pots of warm caramel for dipping, as well as fun topping such as small chocolate chips, sprinkles, and even crush candy bars. Guests can move down the table, making their own autumn-inspired treats.  

For more information about catering, contact a local company.