Non-traditional desserts are becoming a norm for graduation celebrations, especially this year as larger celebrations will be limited due to the coronavirus pandemic. Sheet cakes are typically popular for these events, but many bakery customers are thinking smaller this year. “People are doing less or smaller cakes and then serving cupcakes, cookies, or donuts,” says Lynn Schurman, owner of Cold Spring Bakery in Cold Spring, Minnesota.

Offering alternatives such as cake pops or cupcakes at your bakery allows your customers to pick something that will stand out at smallers celebrations. “Cupcakes are the perfect sized dessert to give all of your party guests a small sweet infusion,” says Houston’s Three Brothers Bakery.

Cupcakes or cake pops can be arranged in a special pattern, or can be combined with a sheet cake. “We’re also trying to figure out if there are other kinds of desserts that can be incorporated,” Schurman says. “Not all graduation parties are doing cakes anymore. They’re looking for other options.”

Cake pops are another fun play on the format. Full cakes can sometimes be too much for a group, may not be completely eaten, and can occasionally go to waste. Cake pops can be enjoyed by adults and children alike, and they’re more easily stored for future eating. Additionally, with many people watching their waistlines come the spring season, smaller bites are encouraged.

A cute option for cake pops or cupcakes is to top them with miniature decorations. Customize these treats with little edible graduation caps or scrolls. These decorations can be showcased as part of larger displays.

Mini dessert bars are also a growing trend, as customers are drawn to variety in products and flavors. Just like how weddings are trending towards dessert bars, so too can graduation celebrations. Whatever school colors are being utilized will pop when appearing on a multiple treat showcase.

Macarons, cookie sandwiches, donuts, and other smaller items make for delicious gradution dessert alternatives, or can be combined with cupcakes or cake pops for appetizing arrangements.