Having a tropical-themed party? Hawaiian desserts are the way to go to add some fun and freshness to your event. From coconut to tropical fruits, these treats have it all. But the magic happens when you plate them. Presentation is not just about making food look good, it is about the experience for your guests. When you plate Hawaiian desserts, you’re setting the stage for a memorable event.
Plating can turn a plain coconut cream pie or fruit salad into a showstopper. With a little imagination, the same desserts can look as exotic as they taste. You will find even the most basic Hawaiian ingredients like pineapple, mango or papaya offer endless possibilities to create unique and beautiful presentations. Whether you are using clear glass jars to layer or garnishing with edible flowers the possibilities are endless.
These simple yet elegant tricks will make your desserts shine and impress your guests and elevate your party. So, get into 8 ways to plate Hawaiian desserts that will steal the show at your next party!
Serve your Hawaiian fruit salad in coconut bowls for a real tropical vibe. The coconut texture and look is rustic yet elegant. Fill with a colorful mix of pineapple, papaya, mango and kiwi. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh mint or edible flowers and for an extra wow, drizzle with a little honey or coconut cream.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a Hawaiian classic but to make it more glamorous for your party, serve it in individual portions. Bake the cakes in small ramekins or mason jars, then flip them over to reveal the golden caramelised pineapple. For an extra wow, add a maraschino cherry on top of each serving to bring out that retro vibe. Soft cake, sweet pineapple and warm caramelised glaze will be a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
Mini cheesecakes are a great way to serve Hawaiian-inspired treats in bite-sized portions. Top each cheesecake with a layer of tropical fruit like mango, passionfruit or pineapple. For extra flavor, you can add a coconut crust or a splash of rum to the cheesecake batter. Serve in clear glass jars or delicate tartlet shells to show off the layers. A small mint leaf or sprinkle of toasted coconut on top will give it a fresh and tropical feel.
Panna cotta is a fancy dessert and with mango and pineapple, it is even fancier. Layer mango panna cotta in small glasses and top with pineapple gelee for a show stopper. The smooth panna cotta and slight tang of the pineapple gelee is a nice textural contrast. Garnish with edible flowers or a thin slice of fresh pineapple on the rim of the glass to tie it all together with a tropical vibe.
For a fun twist on the classic coconut macaroon, skewer individual macaroons onto colorful bamboo sticks or decorative skewers. Arrange them in a fun, haphazard way to create a tropical display. You can also dip the bottoms of the macaroons in chocolate for extra indulgence. Serve on a large platter or hang from a decorative stand so guests can grab and go while mingling.
Turn the classic ice cream sundae into a tropical treat by adding island toppings. Start with coconut or pineapple ice cream, then add chopped tropical fruit, toasted coconut flakes and a drizzle of caramel or passionfruit syrup. For extra flair serve in hollowed-out pineapples or coconuts. The natural bowl adds authenticity and a refreshing feel to your dessert table.
Tropical mousse cups are for any occasion, make individual mousse cups with coconut, mango or passionfruit. Layer the mousse with different colors for a fun and colorful presentation. Serve in glass cups or mini trifle bowls so guests can see the layers. Top with toasted coconut flakes or a slice of fresh fruit for a tropical touch.
Pineapple coconut tartlets are a perfect combination of crunch and cream. Start with a buttery tart shell, fill with coconut cream, add a layer of pineapple compote and top with toasted coconut or candied ginger for extra flavor. Serve on a platter, in a circle or scattered for a fun dessert display.