<Tr> <Th> Variations </Th> <Td> Numerous (biscuits, cakes, tarts, cookies, sandeshs, gelatins, ice creams, pastries, pies, puddings, custards, and sweet soups, etc .) </Td> </Tr> <Tr> <Td_colspan="2"> Cookbook: Dessert Media: Dessert </Td> </Tr> <P> Dessert (/ dɪˈzɜːrt /) is a confectionery course that concludes a main meal . The course usually consists of sweet foods, and possibly a beverage such as dessert wine or liqueur, but may include coffee, cheeses, nuts, or other savory items . In some parts of the world, such as much of central and western Africa, and most parts of China, there is no tradition of a dessert course to conclude a meal . </P> <P> The term "dessert" can apply to many confections, such as cakes, tarts, cookies, biscuits, gelatins, pastries, ice creams, pies, puddings, custards, and sweet soups . Fruit is also commonly found in dessert courses because of its naturally occurring sweetness . Some cultures sweeten foods that are more commonly savory to create desserts . </P>

Where did the tradition of dessert come from