An engagement party is a great way to celebrate you and your loved one’s new titles as “fiances.” Your friends and families will want to celebrate this big life step, and they’ll be able to get to know other key people in your life. Whether you’re planning your own engagement party, or hosting one for a friend, there are a number of things you can do to make the planning process as stress-free as possible.
Let’s begin with the menu. In most cases, cocktail parties work very well, and you can lay out a series of engagement party food items rather than slave over a 5-course meal.
Baked Brie Bites
Pair the rich flavors of brie with tangy cranberries to create an alluring snack. The addition of pistachios adds both color and flavor, making these bite-sized appetizers a great idea for your engagement party food spread.
To make, simply purchase one box of puff pastry shells from the local grocery store. Cut 4 ounces of brie cheese into small chunks, and place each one in the middle of a shell. Bake the shells with the brie for 5 minutes at 400 degrees, or according to the package’s directions. Remove the brie from the oven and add about a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and then a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. These are best when they’re warm, so it’s wise to make them right before the party, but they’re so easy they’ll hardly take up any time at all!
Smoked Salmon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Herbs
Lox isn’t just for breakfast; this traditional pairing looks beautiful at an engagement party. The flavors are fresh and bright, and add a nice contradiction to rich and heavy party food.
To prepare, mix 8 ounces of cream cheese with ½ cup of half and half and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Using one 8 ounce package of sliced smoked salmon, lay out each piece of fish flat on a cutting board. Spread about one tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture onto the salmon, then roll up into a neat sphere. If the rolls are long, cut them in half. Top each piece of salmon with chopped chives, parsley, or any other desired herbs.
Chocolate Pudding Shooters
What’s more romantic than chocolate? Not only do these shooters taste great, but their presentation make them an adorable engagement party food candidate.
Prepare your favorite from-scratch pudding recipe, or, to save time, make a mix (no one will know). Using plastic or glass shooters, fill each glass about ¾ full with the chocolate pudding. For an added bonus, garnish these bad boys with sea salt, whipped cream, or fresh fruit, and watch the shooters fly off the plates. Feel free to get creative, and use different flavors of pudding to add color and diversity to the dessert table.
What to Drink?
When it comes to providing libations, there are a number of things you can to to highlight your engagement party food menu. Champagne is obviously a great choice, and pairs nicely with small bites. If you have a dessert heavy menu, consider a Riesling or Moscato to highlight the sweeter flavors. These wines also pair well with strong cheeses, such as gorgonzola or brie, and can also work well with savory appetizers.
Another idea is to create a signature cocktail. Think of something that represents you and your fiancé’s tastes to create a drink that your guests will love. If you like whiskey, go for a Manhattan or a Whiskey Smash. Maybe a Negroni, if you like something more bitter. If you’re throwing a country wedding, consider lemonade with sweet tea vodka to make a dirty Arnold Palmer.
Regardless, your guests are there to celebrate you, so make sure you stay true to your tastes. Your engagement party food can reflect who you are as a couple. Congratulations, and happy planning!
