It is a well-known fact that many people have a soft spot for sweets, often yearning for something sugary to cap off a satisfying meal. The joy of treating yourself to a delightful dessert goes beyond satisfying the palate-it is a mood lifter, thanks to the scientifically-backed idea that desserts trigger the release of dopamine, the ‘happy hormone’.
It is common practice around the world to indulge in some dessert after dinner, be it a little bite of something delicious or a full-sized dessert after a savoury meal. Some prefer to pick up more Westernised desserts, while others lean towards Indian sweets after dinner. Whether it is cakes, pastries, cupcakes, or traditional Indian delights like Gulab Jamun, Gajar Halwa, and Rasmalai, desserts after dinner ritual is a cherished tradition.
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So, here is a tantalising selection to relish and savour, ensuring a luxurious, sweet indulgence, especially after dinner.
Fresh Cream Pineapple Cake
A light and fruity dessert is one of the best desserts to eat after dinner, especially if you have had a heavy meal. A fresh cream and pineapple cake, for instance, will bring respite from the richest of meals, be it an Italian feast or a Mughlai indulgence.
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Rasmalai
For those who prefer eating Indian desserts after their evening meal, a decadent rasmalai can be the perfect way to end a feast. Originating from Orissa, this dessert is made by soaking cottage cheese in thick reduced milk and topping it with dry fruits and nuts as well as saffron for a hint of luxury.
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Chocolate Dipped Peanut Butter S'mores
S'mores are not just for summertime: You can use a stovetop flame to roast marshmallows all year. Ree ups the ante on this easy dessert by adding peanut butter to the classic chocolate marshmallow, graham and cracker combo.
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Cupcakes
Looking for a handheld dessert after lunch or dinner? Go for a cupcake, which is easily available and just as easy to eat too. You also have so many options with cupcakes, because you can find them in so many different flavours such as red velvet, chocolate, vanilla, and more. Cupcakes are also a fun choice of post-dinner dessert because they are usually adorned with decorative frosting and fun elements to create excitement.
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Halwa
Another pick from the Indian desserts category, halwa is often considered to be soul food. Halwa originated in Persia and is very commonly enjoyed throughout the Middle East too. While this dessert is usually eaten during the winter season or at weddings and festivals in India, it is super easy to make and can be eaten any time of day at home as well. There are many types of halwa out there, from the simple and homely Aate Ka Halwa (Wheat Halwa) to the luxurious Gaajar Ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa) that is a favourite across the nation.
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Fruit Custard
If you do not like overly sweet desserts but still get peckish after dinner, a fruit custard is the right pick for you. That is because any sweetness of the custard is easily offset by fresh fruit like apples, oranges, grapes, bananas, and more.
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This dessert is also a filling and substantial choice if you are looking to eat dessert for dinner because it’s easy to eat and allows you to fill up on desserts without the extra guilt.