These classic Petit Fours are elegant, bite-sized cakes, perfect for tea parties, weddings, or special gatherings. Made with a light cream sponge cake and filled with whipped cream, these delicate confections are dipped in colorful fondant and beautifully decorated.
Ingredients
- Cream Sponge Cake (Follow the recipe for a light, airy sponge cake)
- 1 cup whipped cream, sweetened and flavored to taste
- Fondant (melted and colored as desired)
- Pistachio nuts, violets, or glacé cherries for decoration
- Optional: Chopped nuts or glacé fruits for the cream filling
Instructions
- Prepare the sponge cake: Follow your favorite Cream Sponge Cake recipe. Pour the batter into a shallow baking pan to ensure a thin layer and bake as instructed. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Shape the cakes: Once the sponge cake has cooled, use a small round cutter to cut out individual pieces. You can use other shapes as well, like squares or hearts, depending on your preference.
- Fill the cakes: Carefully split each piece of cake in half. Remove a small portion from the center of one half, creating a cavity. Fill the cavity with whipped cream, sweetened and flavored to your liking. For extra flavor and texture, add chopped nuts or glacé fruits to the whipped cream.
- Assemble the Petit Fours: Place the other half of the cake on top of the filled side, pressing firmly to secure them together.
- Prepare the fondant: Melt the fondant over low heat until smooth. Color and flavor it as desired, using pastel shades for a more elegant look.
- Dip the cakes: Dip each filled cake in the melted fondant, coating the entire surface evenly. Place them on a wire rack or parchment paper to allow the fondant to set.
- Decorate: Before the fondant fully hardens, top each cake with pistachio nuts, violets, or glacé cherries for a touch of decoration. You can also get creative with other edible flowers or sprinkles.
- Place in paper cases: Once the fondant has set, carefully transfer each Petit Four into a small paper case for a polished presentation.
Notes
- Flavor Variations: You can experiment with different flavors for the whipped cream filling, such as vanilla, almond, or citrus. Similarly, the fondant can be flavored with extracts like lemon or rose.
- Storage: These Petit Fours are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
- Presentation Tip: To make your Petit Fours even more visually appealing, use edible gold leaf or pearl dust for decoration.
Petit Fours are the perfect blend of flavor and beauty, making them ideal for elegant occasions. Their dainty appearance and delicious taste are sure to impress your guests!