Throw an Independence Day Dessert Spectacular

Doesn't it seem like just last week that we were all nibbling on burgers and dogs at Memorial Day cookouts? All of a sudden, it's July -- which means it's time for the first big holiday weekend of the official summer season.

If all of your friends beat you to the punch on sending out 4th of July cookout invitations, don't despair: there's still time (and room on your pals' social calendars) for an Independence Day Dessert Spectacular!

Coordinate with your dinner host to have the party move over to your place for sweets and cocktails after the big fireworks show. Your friend will thank you for sharing hosting duties, and your guests will love your spread of American classics -- with a twist, of course.