Katie Brown | Backyard Dessert a Go-Go

Sometimes I feel like I am Lucille Ball.

In the sense that I am always tripping, falling, stubbing my toe, and so on. I remember when I was fresh out of college and I had just begun waiting tables. It was customary at this particular restaurant to shadow a waitress and learn from all she did. As I followed and listened, I began to feel more confident and that I might, in fact, be quite good at it. As I was daydreaming about the great tips I would soon earn, the waitress asked me to go and fetch a few desserts off the dessert table.

Now, to fully understand what I am about to tell you, you must know that this was a large, very open restaurant in the heart of NYC in the eighties. I, and my newfound cockiness, walked to the display of desserts parked right in the center of the restaurant. As I neared the cart, my feet slid from underneath me and I began to fall. I scurried, struggled, and landed head first into the creme brulee and chocolate mousse. The whole restaurant began to clap and one diner said, “I want what she’s wearing.” There was nothing to do but stand and take a bow, with all the sweet pies and cakes sticking to my uniform, then slink off to the restroom to recover. This is just one story out of the many humiliating falls that have plagued me throughout my life.

But you know what they say, whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. That’s where I find my peace. However, for this long holiday weekend I say avoid the mess of a full on dessert spread and create desserts that travel safely with all your guest as they mingle and enjoy the layout of your party. I hope you like the following collection of Katie-proof desserts I have assembled.

I wish for you and for all those you love to have a happy and safe weekend!