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Hosting a holiday party? Make a donut tree your sweet centrepiece
Planning a holiday party can be quite a challenge, but with the right combination of delicious food and festive decorations, you can create an event to remember. If you’re looking for a centrepiece that’s both easy to make and impressive, look no further than the Donut Tree. This edible showstopper will not only wow your guests, but also add a touch of holiday cheer to your table. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of creating your very own donut tree, from the materials you’ll need to the decorations you can use.
Materials needed
To make a donut tree, you’ll need a few basic materials that are readily available. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Styrofoam cones: These can be found in craft stores and are the base of your doughnut tree.
- Covering material: You can use plastic wrap, foil, icing or melted candy melts to cover the polystyrene cone. This will provide a surface to which the donuts can be attached.
- Toothpicks: Regular toothpicks can be used to attach the donuts to the cone. For a touch of sparkle, use toothpicks with bright red or green tassels on the end.
- Donuts and donut holes: The star of the show! You’ll need plenty of donuts and donut holes to cover the cone and create a visually appealing tree shape.
Build your donut tree
Now that you have all the materials, it’s time to bring your donut tree to life. Follow these easy steps:
- Cover the polystyrene cone: Wrap the cone with your chosen covering material. This will provide a surface on which to place the donuts.
- Attach the donuts: Take each donut or donut hole and secure it to the cone with a toothpick. Start at the bottom and work your way up, making sure the donuts are evenly spaced and completely cover the cone. Get creative with the arrangement and consider using a combination of donuts, mini donuts and donut holes for added variety.
Decorate your donut tree
Once your donut tree is assembled, it’s time to add some festive decorations. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Frosting and sprinkles: If your donuts or donut holes don’t already have frosting or sprinkles, you can add them yourself. Use seasonally coloured icing, melted candy melts and sprinkles or powdered sugar to create a visually appealing and delicious coating.
- Icing and gumdrops: With a dab of icing, you can attach gumdrops or red and green M&Ms to resemble colourful tree lights. This adds a pop of colour and makes your doughnut tree really festive.
- Fresh elements: Place rosemary sprigs and cranberries or pomegranate seeds between each donut hole to add a touch of freshness and natural beauty to your tree.
- Festive ornaments: Consider using peppermints, candy canes and marshmallows as festive ornaments. Just stick them on the doughnut tree for an extra dose of holiday cheer.
Serving and pairing
Your sweet donut tree is now ready to take centre stage at your holiday party. To make them even more delicious, consider serving them with warm glasses of spiced apple cider or hot cocoa. The combination of sweet donuts and comforting drinks is an unbeatable holiday pairing that your guests will love.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an eye-catching centrepiece for your holiday party, a donut tree is the perfect choice. It’s easy to make, visually stunning and, most importantly, delicious. With a few simple materials and a touch of creativity, you can create a festive masterpiece that will leave your guests in awe. So why not give it a try and make your holiday party truly memorable with a donut tree as your sweet centrepiece? Happy hosting!
Note: The content of this article is based on the information in the article “Hosting a Holiday Party? Make a Donut Tree Your Sweet Centrepiece” on Mashed.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a doughnut tree?
A donut tree is a festive centrepiece made by attaching donuts or donut holes to a polystyrene cone. It creates the shape of a tree and serves as both a visually appealing decoration and a delicious treat for your holiday party.
Where can I find a polystyrene cone for the doughnut tree?
Styrofoam cones can be found in most craft stores. They are often used for various craft projects and are readily available during the holiday season.
Can I use homemade doughnuts for the doughnut tree?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought donuts or donut holes, but homemade donuts allow for more customisation and flavours. Baking your own doughnuts gives you the freedom to experiment with different flavours and toppings to suit your tastes.
How do I attach the donuts to the cone?
To attach the donuts to the cone, simply insert a toothpick into the donut and then push it into the polystyrene cone. Start at the bottom and work your way up, making sure the donuts are evenly spaced and completely cover the cone.
Can I decorate the donut tree with other toppings besides icing and sprinkles?
Absolutely! The doughnut tree is a blank canvas for your creativity. You can use a variety of toppings such as frosting, gumdrops, red and green M&M’s, rosemary sprigs, cranberries, pomegranate seeds, peppermint, candy canes, marshmallows and more. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make your doughnut tree unique.
Can I make a doughnut tree in advance?
While it’s best to assemble the donut tree as close to the time of your party as possible to keep the donuts fresh, you can make some preparations in advance. You can cover the polystyrene cone with the chosen covering material and collect all the decorations. However, it’s best to place the donuts closer to the start of your event to ensure they stay fresh and visually appealing.
How do I store the leftovers from the donut tree?
If you have leftovers from the doughnut tree, it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, remember that doughnuts are best when fresh, so try to enjoy them within a day or two for optimal taste and texture.