An Insider's Guide to Memorable Cinco de Mayo Parties

Dessert is one of the most important parts of your menu, so do not overlook them when you are planning for Cinco de Mayo. Just as the appetizers are one of the first impressions your guests receive, so dessert is one of the last impressions they will get before the go home. To make your party especially memorable, follow these suggestions.

Choosing Desserts

Many desserts can be prepared well before your party begins. Mexican classics like Tres Leches cake need that extra time to be at their best flavor before serving. Pick out a few desserts to make so everyone has a choice. Since Tres Leches is a creamy dessert, try one that is a bit spicy that combines chilies and chocolate. These two flavors complement each other well and make an incredible combination.

While everyone is drooling over these rich, decadent delights, be sure you also offer something light and fruity for those who do not wish to overdo it. A light creamy flan or a fruity tart may be just the ticket to end their evening.

Laying the Table

Now that the desserts are done, let us turn our attention to presenting the food in an appetizing way. Mexico is known for deeply saturated colors. They do not hide behind pastels and earth tones. Drape your food table with a deeply colored tablecloth. Red or green are perfect since they are on the Mexican flag. You can complete the patriotic feel by setting out napkins of red, green, and white.

If you do not have any tropical plants, see if you can borrow a few leaves from a friend who does. Tree philodendrons and palm leaves are particularly exotic looking. Lay the leaves on top of the tablecloth and set your platters right on top of them, letting the fronds peep out from beneath them. Make sure your platters are bright colors. Yellow, blue, orange, green, and red are perfect.