Ring in the New Year with Chocolate: Sweet Ideas for Celebrating

New Year's Eve is the night of big plans, small plans and, quite often, no plans at all. Whether you are hosting a party for twenty, a quiet dinner for four or a cosy evening for two with the television on, there is one thing that makes any of them feel more festive: something sweet at midnight.

Here are our favourite ways to ring in the new year with chocolate.

The sparkling pairing

Chocolate and fizz is one of the great celebratory combinations. The crisp bubbles cut through the richness, and the contrast feels instantly festive.

• Champagne or sparkling wine with dark chocolate. Bright, clean and classic.
• Prosecco with fruit-flavoured chocolates. Raspberry and orange work especially well.
• Sparkling rosé with something floral. Rose and violet notes are a lovely match.
• A non-alcoholic sparkling drink with a good dark bar, for anyone who is skipping the wine.

The midnight treat

As the clock ticks down, put out something small and special. A plate of chocolates at midnight turns a countdown into a proper moment.

• Individually wrapped chocolates to hand out as the bells ring.
• A few truffles on a pretty plate, set beside the glasses.
• A small box shared between friends, each person choosing a piece.

The New Year's Eve chocolate table

If you are hosting, a dessert table can do the work for you. Set it out in the afternoon and let guests help themselves.

1. A selection of chocolates, arranged on plates and stands.
2. Fresh fruit such as strawberries, grapes and clementines.
3. Sparkling drinks chilled and within reach.
4. Small napkins and a few little plates. Handy for guests moving around.
5. A sprinkle of gold. Candles, ribbons or a few gold accents make it look celebratory.

The cosy night in

Not everyone wants to go out, and plenty of people are more than happy to stay in.

• Hot chocolate and a good film, long before midnight.
• A box of chocolates and a board game, for the competitive.
• Something sparkling at midnight and a piece of dark chocolate to see in the year.

The New Year's resolution that tastes good

Why not set one that is a pleasure? Choose a few new things to try in the year ahead. A new flavour, a new tradition, a small ritual that makes an ordinary day feel a little special.

Cheers to the new year: a few toasts

• "To good company and good chocolate."
• "To the year behind and the one ahead."
• "May your year be as sweet as the last piece in the box."

How much to buy for a party

A sweet start

The nicest way to start a new year is the way you hope to continue: with good company, something delicious and a little bit of joy. Happy New Year from all of us.