A variety of materials are used in the making of dessert stands. Some dessert stands are intended to be used once and then thrown away. Materials used for that type of dessert stand include plastic, aluminum, and compressed cardboard. Other dessert stands are carefully crafted and may even be intended as family heirlooms. Materials used for those dessert stands include glass, porcelain, crystal, sterling silver, and stainless steel. Acrylic is a popular material for all types of dessert stands.

Specialty dessert stands can be made to revolve, or to play music. This type of stand is popular at weddings and birthdays. Dessert stands can be tiered, or they can be set on pedestals. Some dessert stands are designed with slots around the side of the base so that ribbons can be threaded through the slots to decorate the display.

Dessert stands are made in a variety of shapes that fit cakes made in different shapes. Among the more common shapes are square, round, and heart-shaped.
Smaller dessert stands, called petite plateaus, are available. The smaller sizes are popular for making the presentation of salads and desserts more attractive. They can be used to serve items like cheese balls or lemon bars. Single serve cakes can also be attractively presented on petite plateaus.