Delicious Fall Spread: Ravioli Calzone, Bacon Cheddar Cups & Merengue Cake!

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Discussion Overview

This thread centers around participants sharing their experiences with fall-themed food preparations and events, particularly focusing on a kick-off gathering featuring various dishes. Participants discuss the reception of the food, challenges faced in hosting, and strategies for engaging guests.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, shared their experience of hosting a fall kick-off with dishes like Zesty ravioli calzone, bacon cheddar cups, and lemon merengue cake, noting that everyone loved the food.
  • Another participant expressed curiosity about the ease of making bacon cheddar cups, mentioning they were looking for simple appetizer ideas for a large fundraiser.
  • Several users mentioned the challenges of attendance at their events, with one participant noting that only two out of many invited guests showed up, while others reflected on the impact of the economy on attendance.
  • One participant shared their strategy of offering discontinued products at a discount to attract guests, reporting success with over $400 in orders.
  • Another participant discussed the effort involved in making drinks like Raspberry Tequila Sangria, weighing the time and cost against the enjoyment of guests.
  • One participant highlighted the importance of incentives, such as ticket drawings for RSVPing and bringing friends, to encourage participation and engagement at events.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the effectiveness of various strategies for hosting successful events, with some participants sharing positive experiences while others express challenges in attracting guests.

Contextual Notes

Participants are sharing personal experiences related to hosting food events and the dynamics of engaging guests, reflecting a variety of approaches and outcomes.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ideas on food preparation for events and strategies to increase guest engagement may find this discussion relevant.

heat123
heat123
Silver Member
Messages
6,922
:thumbup: I had my fall kick off and made the Zesty ravioli, ham and cheese calzone, bacon cheddar cups and lemon merengue cake! Everyone loved it all and I especially loved the Merengue cake! :chef:
 
But how did the kick-off go???
 
heat123 said:
:thumbup: I had my fall kick off and made the Zesty ravioli, ham and cheese calzone, bacon cheddar cups and lemon merengue cake! Everyone loved it all and I especially loved the Merengue cake! :chef:
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That cake is so YUMMO!! were the Bacon Cheddar Easy? I'm helping out with a very large fundraiser (non PC) but I offered to make appetizers, so I'm looking for something really easy! TIA
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Ginger428 said:
That cake is so YUMMO!! were the Bacon Cheddar Easy? I'm helping out with a very large fundraiser (non PC) but I offered to make appetizers, so I'm looking for something really easy! TIA
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I think they are pretty easy, the only time consuming part is cutting out the pie crusts;).
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Shell Northway said:
But how did the kick-off go???
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Ehh.... lol. I invited my Entire Customer base.. only 2 showed, the rest was family. $300 and closing. But that's better than my last kick off (spring ), no one rsvp'd so I had to cancel. :(
 
At least you got a show out of it. I have a feeling that the more kick-off's and open houses you do, seasonly, the more people will look forward to them. I am thinking of having a "Recipe Testing" same as a open house but a different reason to bring people out.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Shell Northway said:
At least you got a show out of it. I have a feeling that the more kick-off's and open houses you do, seasonly, the more people will look forward to them. I am thinking of having a "Recipe Testing" same as a open house but a different reason to bring people out.
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The first few were better than the last two!:( I think it has more to do with this economy than anything.
 
heat123 said:
I think they are pretty easy, the only time consuming part is cutting out the pie crusts;).
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OK Kewl!! Thanks!!
 
I always offer my discontinued and extra stuff at 50% for the discontinued and 20% for the new (no guarantees). It always brings people and when they see the new stuff they want it (especially after I tell them the guarantee part). I had over $400 in orders.My guests also loved the Lemon dessert and the Raspberry Tequila Sangria (from the Appetizer cookbook). I did limit them all to one small glass since most were driving and I live in the country.
 
darlinclem said:
I always offer my discontinued and extra stuff at 50% for the discontinued and 20% for the new (no guarantees). It always brings people and when they see the new stuff they want it (especially after I tell them the guarantee part). I had over $400 in orders.

My guests also loved the Lemon dessert and the Raspberry Tequila Sangria (from the Appetizer cookbook). I did limit them all to one small glass since most were driving and I live in the country.
Click to expand...

Hmmm, what did you think of that? Was it worth all the work? Sounds like a lot of fruity stuff and steps. I love the Slap Your Mama Margaritas because they are so easy to throw together (and keep the stuff on hand), these sound tasty, but much more time, work, product & money involved in making them. just wondering if they are worth it...
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
darlinclem said:
I always offer my discontinued and extra stuff at 50% for the discontinued and 20% for the new (no guarantees). It always brings people and when they see the new stuff they want it (especially after I tell them the guarantee part). I had over $400 in orders.

My guests also loved the Lemon dessert and the Raspberry Tequila Sangria (from the Appetizer cookbook). I did limit them all to one small glass since most were driving and I live in the country.
Click to expand...

I always do a $400-500 proudcut raffle give away (xcess inventory) but still no takers. :(
 
ChefPaulaB said:
Hmmm, what did you think of that? Was it worth all the work? Sounds like a lot of fruity stuff and steps. I love the Slap Your Mama Margaritas because they are so easy to throw together (and keep the stuff on hand), these sound tasty, but much more time, work, product & money involved in making them. just wondering if they are worth it...
Click to expand...

I think it was well worth it! I had to buy the tequila, triple sec and raspberries but the rest I usually have around. EVERYONE who tried it liked it. My husband even liked it. I was fruity without being too sweet- almost like Hawaiian Punch with a little extra zip :)

heat123 said:
I always do a $400-500 proudcut raffle give away (xcess inventory) but still no takers. :(
Click to expand...

Offer the products for sale at a discount instead. Everyone thinks they won't win so don't try. I also have a giveaway that is a ticket drawing. They get a ticket for RSVPing, bringing a friend (or two), ordering and filling out my taste test survey. I had one woman who ended up with 5 tickets (brought two friends) and still didn't win <g>. She did win last time I did it. You can also offer the host benefits as part of the drawing if you have enough to qualify for a show. Since mine has now gone over $550 I have a co-host who gets a piece of stoneware also. She was stoked.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
darlinclem said:
I think it was well worth it! I had to buy the tequila, triple sec and raspberries but the rest I usually have around. EVERYONE who tried it liked it. My husband even liked it. I was fruity without being too sweet- almost like Hawaiian Punch with a little extra zip :)



Offer the products for sale at a discount instead. Everyone thinks they won't win so don't try. I also have a giveaway that is a ticket drawing. They get a ticket for RSVPing, bringing a friend (or two), ordering and filling out my taste test survey. I had one woman who ended up with 5 tickets (brought two friends) and still didn't win <g>. She did win last time I did it. You can also offer the host benefits as part of the drawing if you have enough to qualify for a show. Since mine has now gone over $550 I have a co-host who gets a piece of stoneware also. She was stoked.
Click to expand...

I do the same with Rsvping, booking, ordering, signing etc and for attending. All of my guests walked out with 3 items each! Cuz they attended, and ordered.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for the Ravioli Calzone?

The Ravioli Calzone typically requires fresh or frozen ravioli, pizza dough, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your choice of additional fillings like spinach or mushrooms. You can customize it based on your preferences!

How long does it take to prepare the Bacon Cheddar Cups?

The Bacon Cheddar Cups can be prepared in about 15 minutes and baked for an additional 15-20 minutes, making the total time around 30-35 minutes. They are quick and easy to make, perfect for a fall gathering!

Can I make the Meringue Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Meringue Cake ahead of time! The meringue layers can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to two days. Just assemble the cake with your filling and toppings right before serving for the best texture.

What kitchen tools do I need to make these recipes?

For these recipes, you will need basic kitchen tools such as a mixing bowl, baking sheets, a rolling pin, and a whisk. Additionally, using Pampered Chef products like the Stoneware or the Mix ‘N Chop can enhance your cooking experience!

Are there any vegetarian options for these recipes?

Absolutely! You can easily make vegetarian versions of these dishes. For the Ravioli Calzone, choose cheese or vegetable-filled ravioli. For the Bacon Cheddar Cups, simply omit the bacon and use additional cheese or vegetables. The Meringue Cake is already vegetarian-friendly!

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