Midnight Snack Ideas

If you’re at all like me, good food is a big priority, especially when it comes to your wedding. These days, there are so many ways to dazzle your guests, from extravagant cocktail hours to savory entrees and elegant cakes. One trend that is sure to please any palate is the Midnight Snack. 

Picture this: the dance floor is packed, your guests have spent hours and energy celebrating, but the night is winding down and it’s been awhile since they’ve eaten. Enter the Midnight Snack, a late night treat designed to help your guests refuel and get them ready for a few more dances, a long journey home, or even a wild after party. 

Midnight Snack options are endless and allow couples on any budget to add some flair and personality to their reception. They’re also a great way to incorporate foods you‘ve always enjoyed together, whether it’s your favorite movie night dish or the dessert you shared on your first date. Though you can certainly get fancy, some of the best and most well-received Midnight Snacks are simple and completely informal. 

Work with your caterer to narrow down your selections and figure out the best time to serve them. (Despite its name, the Midnight Snack doesn’t actually have to be served at midnight.) Some caterers may have a full lineup of snacks to choose from, while others may allow you to bring in an outside vendor. Don’t forget, presentation can be just as important as the snack itself, so whether you’re setting up a table or station or asking the servers to pass the food around the dance floor, be sure to make it fun. 

Here are a few suggestions that will help your guests end the night full and happy.

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Choose classic, easy-to- eat options like sliders, hotdogs and fries. Get a little more elaborate and set up a nacho or taco bar with all the fixings.  Pizza is always a safe bet and can be dished out in full or miniature portions.

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Don’t be afraid to serve fast food or takeout. When it comes to Midnight Snacks: the greasier the food, the better. Hungry guests will devour McDonalds, Chick-Fil-A, White Castle or Taco Bell. They’ll also love Chinese food displayed in individual takeout cartons.

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Don’t forget your childhood favorites. Mini portions of peanut butter and jelly or grilled cheese make great comfort foods. Mac and Cheese can be served in small cups or deep fried.

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They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but for many, it’s also the most delicious. Who wouldn’t want to eat it after a night of celebrating? Get fancy with waffle stations or crepes. Go bite-sized with a stack of mini pancakes or French toast bites. Keep it simple with a box of Krispy Kremes or a tray of donut holes.

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You can never go wrong with hometown favorites.  Your local guests will enjoy the familiar flavors, and your out-of-town guests will love the local flair. Couples from the Philadelphia area have a variety of options to choose from. Cheesesteaks will definitely be a hit. They can be set up at a bar or hand passed in small portions. Soft Pretzels or Tastykakes are cheap and simple, but delicious. Rita’s Water Ice is a refreshing treat for any summer wedding.

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Carnival foods are always a crowd pleaser. Surprise your guests with cotton candy or popcorn. Serve them snow cones or funnel cake and churros. For a whimsical touch, rent a vintage cart or stand to display the goodies.

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I scream, you scream, your guests will scream for ice cream! There are so many ways to incorporate it into your snack menu. From hand-passed ice cream cones and sandwiches to a Sundae bar complete with your favorite toppings, everyone will love these cool treats.

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Give your guests a sugar rush with an assortment of sweets. You can’t go wrong with cookies or brownies. Chocolate mousse fits perfectly in shot glasses, while parfaits are suited for mini martini glasses. Rice Krispie treats and cake pops provide a homemade feel.  No matter how full they think they are, wedding guests will always have room for a little more dessert!

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Snacks don’t just have to be limited to food. Floats and milkshakes are great examples. During fall and winter months, you can warm your guests up with small servings of cider or hot cocoa with whipped cream.  Up the cool factor of any snack by pairing it with the perfect drink. Milk shooters would be perfect with any dessert, while mini Cokes would really add to a slider and French fry tray.

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If you really want to wow your guests, look into hiring a food truck in your area. This wedding trend has become incredibly popular over the last few years – and for good reason. Trucks can swing by your venue and serve up items ranging from cupcakes and soft serve to fried foods and Mexican fare. You’re guaranteed to have a line full of excited partygoers.

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If you’re worried that a midnight snack won’t fit into your reception timeline, but like the idea, why not offer one to go. Plenty of the options above would be easy for guests take with them and save for later. Add some cute packaging or a personalized logo and your snack can double as a wedding favor! 

No matter what you choose, Midnight Snacks are bound to be a hit on your wedding day! 

-Laura