Darina Allen: Treats from the Ballymaloe ‘sweet trolley’

The Ballymaloe House ‘sweet trolley’ is legendary indeed. For over 50 years it has been wheeled around the dining rooms at Ballymaloe House piled high with tempting desserts to tantalise guests at the end of their meal. 

The first cart was made in the 1960’s by carpenter, Danny Power, in his farm workshop to Myrtle Allen’s specifications. A shelf on top with a little ledge around the edge to hold the array of desserts. Another underneath for plates, serving utensils and top-ups. Ever since it has delighted diners.

All conversation ceases as the entire table listens to the description of the temptations on offer, home-made Ballymaloe ice-cream served in an ice bowl, a meringue cake or a pretty fluted dish piled high with little “kisses” sandwiched together with a tangy homemade lemon curd and always a compote of fruit in season.