A dessert platter is a visually stunning and delicious assortment of bite-sized sweet treats, perfect for entertaining guests or adding a festive touch to any celebration. Designed to offer a variety of flavors, textures, and colors, a dessert platter brings together confections such as candies, mini cakes, cookies, marshmallows, and more, arranged beautifully on a serving board.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert platter is ideal for parties, birthdays, and special gatherings. It offers something for everyone—whether you crave fruity, creamy, chewy, or crunchy sweets. The platter is easy to customize and assemble, making it a practical yet elegant option for hosts who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Strawberry candy skewers
- Green mini sponge cake cubes
- Mini sprinkle-dipped fudge squares
- Pink chocolate-covered sandwich cookies
- Sugar-coated gummy knots
- Assorted mini gumdrops and fruit chews
- Pink candy dots or whipped meringues
Directions
- Prepare all the candies and treats in advance. Cut any larger items into bite-sized pieces.
- Skewer items like marshmallows, fudge cubes, or gummy candies for added height and visual appeal.
- Use a large wooden or serving board as your base.
- Arrange larger items like cookies and fudge squares first to create anchors.
- Fill in gaps with smaller items such as gummies and candy dots.
- Alternate colors and textures to make the platter visually appealing.
- Keep the platter chilled if any of the items are perishable, especially during warm weather.
- Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap until ready to present.
Servings and timing
Servings: Serves approximately 10-12 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
No baking or cooking required
Variations
- Use seasonal candies (e.g., Halloween, Christmas, Easter) to match the occasion.
- Include chocolate truffles or dipped fruits for a more luxurious platter.
- Add mini cupcakes or brownie bites for a richer dessert spread.
- For a healthier option, mix in dried fruits and dark chocolate.
- Customize color schemes to match your event’s theme.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover items in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Perishable items: Keep in the refrigerator if using perishable toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit.
- Do not reheat: This platter contains no items that require reheating. Simply bring refrigerated components to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What is a dessert platter?
A dessert platter is a curated selection of small, sweet treats arranged on a serving tray or board for sharing.
Can I make a dessert platter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble it a few hours in advance. Just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate if needed.
What are good base items for a dessert platter?
Cookies, mini cakes, fudge cubes, and candy skewers work well as base items to anchor the arrangement.
Can I include homemade treats?
Absolutely. Brownie bites, homemade fudge, and mini cupcakes are great additions.
Is a dessert platter suitable for kids’ parties?
Yes, it’s perfect. Just be mindful to avoid hard or choking hazard items for very young children.
How do I transport a dessert platter?
Assemble it on a tray with raised edges and cover with cling film or foil to keep everything in place.
What type of board should I use?
Use a large wooden serving board, a food-safe tray, or even a clean baking sheet for assembling.
How do I keep the colors vibrant?
Store candies and treats in a cool, dry place to maintain their color and texture until serving time.
Can I make this platter nut-free?
Yes, simply ensure all items used are nut-free and manufactured in nut-free facilities.
How do I serve a dessert platter at an event?
Place it at a central location with small plates or napkins so guests can help themselves.
Conclusion
A dessert platter is a delightful and versatile way to present an assortment of sweets for any occasion. With its mix of textures, colors, and flavors, it is both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or just treating guests to something special, this no-bake platter makes it easy to impress without the stress.
PrintThis vibrant candy dessert charcuterie board is a playful and colorful spread perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or sweet-themed parties. Packed with marshmallow pops, sugar-coated gummies, mini cookies, and candy skewers, it’s a sweet treat everyone will want to dive into.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: : 30 mins
- Yield: 8-10
- Category: Dessert Board
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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Assorted gummies (pineapple, sour belts, berries)
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Marshmallows
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Candy melts (pink, white)
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Rainbow sprinkles
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Mini sandwich cookies
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Skewers
Instructions
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Dip marshmallows and cookies in melted candy melts.
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Add sprinkles while still wet and let them set.
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Thread gummies and marshmallows onto skewers.
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Arrange all items aesthetically on a wooden board.
Notes
You can customize this board with any color theme or candy selection.