Hosting a killer party can be a trying task & no one wants theirs to be a flop. There are many facets to pulling off a fabulous get together but one that can make a real impression when done right is the desert catering. Organising for an event to be catered is often quite exxy so why not show your own flair by whipping up a few bits and pieces to serve. Keeping in mind that when you play hostess you want to spend your time socialising, not serving, simple nibblies and treats go down nicely whatever type of crowd you are to be entertaining. The ultimate party food should be able to be prepared prior to the event and easy for your guests to consume so sticking with tasty finger foods is a top choice!

In the spirit of simplicity and remembering the goal of creating a super fab soiree, there are a few fantastic little treats you can whip up for the big night that will be a sure hit with your guests. These are easy to prepare, easy to serve, they don't require much cleaning up after and shouldn't break the budget. Give these a go at your next bash...

Baileys Chocolate Mousse
These delicious little indulgences can be served up as mini desert style treat in a shot glass. The simple way to create this treat is using a packet chocolate mousse from your local supermarket and adding Baileys into the mixture in place of milk. Depending on how strong you prefer your deserts to be will decipher the amount of Baileys you use.

If you have a bit more time and consider yourself a bit of a domestic darling you can create a mousse from scratch. Why not try this recipe, adding in your Bailey's when melting your chocolate. The amount of Baileys should be dependant upon desired flavour, but don't get too crazy - you want subtle flavour, not drunk guests after one mini desert!

For both versions of this desert, use your favourite peppermint chocolate bar (Peppermint Crisp's work nicely) to garnish. Grate chocolate bar and sprinkle on top.


Jelly Shots
It is as simple as packet jelly just add vodka!

Some points to remember when creating jelly shots:

Use flexible plastic shot cups. This is super important. You want your guest to be able to gently squeeze the shot glass to swallow the jelly! This means no need for spoons and less chance of jelly stained messes covering your carpets.

Don't use too much vodka. Even if it is tempting to do so! Remember that vodka will not freeze and while you are not intending to freeze your jelly shots, you do need them to set so the more alcohol you use the more cold water you need to balance your mixture with. You want wobble jelly goodness not runny sticky jelly mess!

Use cooking spray! Before pouring jelly mixture into your shot glasses to set, spray them lightly with cooking spray. Don't worry, you wont taste it but it will help your guests push the shots of alkijelly out a lot easier!

Mix it up. You can use any type of spirit you like in your jelly shots. Vodka is most common as it will go with just about any flavour of jelly but some other top ideas include:
- Lime Jelly with Tequila
- Pineapple Jelly with Coconut Rum
- Cranberry Jelly & Vodka

What are your favourite party treats? Have you tried any fabulously flavoured jelly shots in your time?