When it comes to special occasions, from weddings to baby showers and everything in between, nothing says “elegance” like a beautifully presented dessert. And what better way to impress your guests than with a selection of exquisite petit fours? These bite-sized treats are the perfect way to cap off any celebration, and when done right, can add a touch of sophistication and whimsy to even the most formal of gatherings.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 elegant petit fours recipes that are sure to impress. From classic vanilla with buttercream frosting to matcha green tea with edible gold leaf, there’s something for every taste and style. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for inspiration for your next special occasion, these recipes are sure to delight.
Classic Vanilla Petit Fours with Buttercream Frosting
These bite-sized vanilla cakes are perfect for any occasion, topped with a rich and creamy buttercream frosting. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these elegant treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared muffin tin and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with buttercream (recipe not included).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Almond Petit Fours
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of dark chocolate with the crunch of toasted almonds, all wrapped up in a delicate pastry package. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole almonds, toasted and chopped
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for shapes.
4. Place squares onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each petit four. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Allow petit fours to cool completely on wire rack. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip cooled petit fours into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Roll almond slivers between fingers and press onto top of each petit four for garnish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (petit fours), 30 seconds – 2 minutes (melting chocolate)
Lemon Glazed Mini Pound Cake Petit Fours
Lemon Glazed Mini Pound Cake Petit Fours: Brighten up your party with these bite-sized treats infused with the warmth of lemon and the richness of pound cake.
Raspberry-Filled Petit Fours with White Chocolate Drizzle
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of raspberries and white chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup raspberry jam
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place shapes on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely before filling with raspberry jam and drizzling with white chocolate.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Coconut-Covered Petit Fours with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate your dessert game with these decadent petit fours, smothered in a rich coconut glaze and topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Petit Four Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Gradually add milk and egg, mixing until a smooth batter forms. Divide among muffin cups.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe onto cooled petit fours.
Matcha Green Tea Petit Fours with Edible Gold Leaf
Elevate your dessert game with these delicate and elegant petit fours infused with the subtle flavor of matcha green tea and finished with a touch of edible gold leaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) matcha green tea powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Edible gold leaf, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, matcha powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming small balls (about 1 inch/2.5 cm in diameter).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
7. Garnish with edible gold leaf before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Velvet Petit Fours with Cream Cheese Glaze
Treat your guests to a decadent dessert experience with these bite-sized red velvet cakes, topped with a tangy cream cheese glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup cream cheese glaze (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and milk.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add red food coloring, vanilla extract, and flour mixture. Mix until combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before glazing with cream cheese glaze.
Cream Cheese Glaze:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Beat all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Drizzle over cooled petit fours.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch of 6-8 petit fours.
Tiramisu-Inspired Coffee-Soaked Petit Fours
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized treats that combine the rich flavors of tiramisu with the elegance of petit fours. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
4. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Allow petit fours to cool completely before soaking in coffee syrup (coffee, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract mixed together).
6. Assemble and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio and Rosewater Petit Fours
Delight your guests with these bite-sized treats that combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the exotic aroma of rosewater.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pistachio meal
– 2 tablespoons rosewater
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in pistachio meal, rosewater, and beaten egg.
5. Divide the dough evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black Forest Petit Fours with Cherry Filling
Experience the classic flavors of Germany in these bite-sized treats, featuring rich chocolate cake, whipped cream, and a tart cherry filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cherry filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before filling with cherry filling and topping with whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes per batch
Earl Grey Tea-Infused Petit Fours with Lavender Icing
Elevate your baking game with these delicate and flavorful petit fours, infused with the subtle notes of Earl Grey tea and finished with a soothing lavender icing.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon Earl Grey tea leaves, brewed and cooled
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the icing:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and milk in a bowl. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
3. Stir in cooled Earl Grey tea and salt.
4. Pour batter into prepared muffin tin, filling 3/4 of the way full.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow to cool completely before icing with lavender buttercream.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Salted Caramel Petit Fours with Dark Chocolate Coating
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of salted caramel and dark chocolate, perfect for a special occasion or as a thoughtful gift. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these decadent petit fours in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) salted caramel sauce
– 1 package (12-15 count) mini puff pastry cups
– 1/2 cup (120g) heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (250g) dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
– Fleur de sel or flaky sea salt, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry cups and place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Drizzle salted caramel sauce into each cup, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Pour in heavy cream and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Melt dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Dip cooled petit fours into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drizzle off.
8. Sprinkle with fleur de sel or flaky sea salt before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Orange Blossom Honey Petit Fours
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of honey with the brightness of orange blossom water, perfect for a springtime dessert or special occasion. With a delicate balance of flavors and textures, these petit fours are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 large egg white
– Fresh orange zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in orange blossom water and honey until well combined.
4. Beat egg white until frothy, then fold into the dough.
5. Divide dough evenly among mini muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving. Garnish with fresh orange zest.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Petit Fours with Fresh Berries
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake with the sweetness of fresh berries, all packaged in a delightful petit four.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (12-15) miniature puff pastry cups
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry cups according to package instructions.
3. Place a spoonful of strawberry slices in each cup, followed by a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of granulated sugar.
4. Fold the pastry cups over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with heavy cream and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with additional fresh berries and whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Opera Cake-Style Layered Petit Fours
These bite-sized treats are inspired by the classic French opera cake, featuring layers of moist genoise, rich coffee syrup, and smooth chocolate ganache. Perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping dessert for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (60g) strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces (225g) high-quality dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites until frothy. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
3. Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
4. Cut into small squares. Drizzle with coffee syrup (see note) and let absorb. Sandwich with chocolate ganache (see note).
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your petit fours.
Note: For coffee syrup, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee. Let cool before using. For chocolate ganache, melt 1 cup (225g) high-quality dark chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
Chai-Spiced Petit Fours with Vanilla Bean Glaze
Warm Up with Chai-Spiced Petit Fours
These bite-sized treats combine the comforting flavors of chai spices with the sweetness of vanilla bean glaze, making them perfect for a cozy gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Vanilla bean glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves to the wet ingredients; mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Vanilla Bean Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over cooled petit fours.
Marzipan-Stuffed Petit Fours with Apricot Jam
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of sweet and savory, with the warmth of apricot jam paired with the nutty flavor of marzipan. A classic French dessert, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– 1/4 cup marzipan, finely chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 2 inches (5 cm) per side.
4. Place a spoonful of apricot jam in the center of each square. Top with a small piece of marzipan.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or shape of your choice. Press edges together to seal.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each petit four.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Espresso-Dusted Petit Fours with Mocha Ganache
Elevate your dessert game with these decadent petit fours, infused with the rich flavors of espresso and mocha. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Espresso powder for dusting
– Mocha ganache (recipe below)
Mocha Ganache:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into lined muffin cups, filling 3/4 of the way.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
6. Dust with espresso powder and top with mocha ganache.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in these elegant petit fours recipes perfect for special occasions! From classic vanilla to decadent chocolate-dipped, and from fruity raspberry-filled to sophisticated matcha green tea, there’s something for every taste. Try coconut-covered with cream cheese frosting, red velvet with cream cheese glaze, or tiramisu-inspired coffee-soaked treats. Or, go exotic with pistachio and rosewater, black forest with cherry filling, or earl grey tea-infused with lavender icing. With 18 unique recipes to choose from, you’re sure to impress your guests with these bite-sized masterpieces.
