Desserts represent a relatively easy way to build seasonality into the sweet side of the menu. This includes not only seasonal fruits, like wintertime citrus, but also traditional flavor profiles that tend to be associated with the season: for fall and winter, look towards classic flavors like pumpkin, maple, gingerbread, or peppermint.
With desserts being positioned as snacks or stand alone treats for any time of day, the category is projected to grow to $20.8 billion by 2022, according to Technomic.
Cobblers and crisps (and their kin like crumbles and Bettys) are perfect for seasonal dessert menus. These comforting, fruit-based desserts are easy enough to pull off even in a kitchen that lacks a dedicated dessert station, and the fillings can be switched up with the seasons. Just warm and serve, perhaps with ice cream or whipped topping.
Never underestimate the power of ever-popular desserts like cheesecake and chocolate cake. You can ramp up the appeal of these simple classics with the addition of interesting toppings, garnishes, and sauces. Or, create a grownup treat by taking childhood-favorite sweets and making them more sophisticated: experiment with items like cupcakes or rice-cereal bars.
When crafting your dessert menu, don’t forget the drinkable desserts. Specialty coffee, hot cocoa, smoothies, milkshakes, and other sweet beverages make a fine after-meal indulgence, one that’s often perceived as lighter and can be priced more affordably.
Read on for recipes and tips that update classic desserts for the cooler season.
Recipes: Libby's, Toll House, and Carnation
Libby's Famous Pumpkin Pie Pumpkin Chocolate Brownies Choc-Oat-Chip Cookies Pumpkin-Cranberry Bread Pumpkin Spoonbread Pumpkin Muffins Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Cold Brew Cheesecake Donuts with Cold Brew Frosting Ice Cream Sliders Featuring Nestlé Toll House Cookies Chocolate Chip Cookies Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Product Brochures: Libby's, Toll House, and Carnation
Learn about our dessert solutions
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