Edible cocktail toppers turn a good drink into something memorable. From dehydrated citrus wheels to edible flowers and custom branded sugar discs, the right garnish elevates both the flavour and the presentation. Here is how to make the most popular toppers at home — and what our bartenders use at events.
Slice oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits into 3mm rounds. Place on a wire rack over a baking tray. Bake at 80C (fan) for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway, until dry and translucent. Cool completely before storing in an airtight container — they keep for up to 2 weeks.
Tip: Blood oranges produce the most visually striking wheels. Slice evenly — a mandoline helps.
Source food-grade edible flowers from a specialist supplier (never use florist flowers — they contain pesticides). Rinse gently under cold water, pat dry with kitchen paper, and store between damp paper towels in the fridge. Float on the cocktail surface just before serving.
Tip: Pansies and violas hold their shape best on cocktails. Nasturtiums add a peppery flavour.
Melt isomalt in a saucepan over medium heat until clear. Add food colouring if desired. Pour carefully into silicone moulds (available in cocktail-themed shapes). Allow to set at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Unmould and store in an airtight container away from humidity.
Tip: Isomalt stays clear and doesn't crystallise like regular sugar. Tempered chocolate is an easier alternative.
Use only food-grade edible lustre dust or cocktail glitter (never craft glitter). Add a small pinch to the cocktail shaker before shaking for an all-over shimmer, or sprinkle over the finished drink surface for a concentrated sparkle effect.
Tip: Gold and rose gold shimmer works best on dark cocktails (Espresso Martini, Old Fashioned). Silver suits lighter serves.
The Sesh Bars include professional garnishes on every cocktail — fresh citrus, herbs, edible flowers, and dehydrated fruit wheels as standard. For weddings, we can add custom touches: the couple's initials on sugar toppers, a signature colour palette across all garnishes, or branded cocktail picks.
For corporate events, branded edible toppers featuring a company logo are a popular upgrade — particularly for product launches and brand activations. Discuss garnish options when you request a quote. See the full cocktail menu for all available serves.
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