Petits Fours
Petits fours are delicate, bite-sized confections with a rich cake base, perfect for elegant occasions or afternoon tea. They suit those who enjoy refined, sweet treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the butter and shortening.
- Add 1 cup sugar and cream until light.
- Add the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add alternately with the milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Beat the egg whites until foamy and add 1/4 cup sugar.
- Beat to soft peaks and fold into the batter.
- Turn the batter into a greased and lightly floured 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until tests done.
- Cool the cake completely.
- Cut into shapes for serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract can be increased for a different taste. Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume. For a colorful twist, consider adding a few drops of food coloring to the batter before baking to create a festive look.
Serving Suggestions
Petits fours are delightful on their own or can be served alongside tea for an elegant afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Raspberry Blossom Dessert, adding a fruity contrast. For a complete dessert table, consider serving them with a Waldorf Salad Dressing to balance the sweetness with a tangy, refreshing element.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover petits fours in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. When ready to serve, allow them to come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Petits Fours contains roughly 722 calories, with 14g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2021mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Using whole eggs will alter the texture of the petits fours, making them denser and less airy. Stick to just egg whites for the best results, as they help create a light and fluffy cake.
What can I use if I don't have cake flour?
If you don't have cake flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour by removing 2 tablespoons of flour per cup and replacing it with cornstarch. This helps mimic the lighter texture of cake flour.
How can I add flavor variations to the petits fours?
You can experiment with different extracts like lemon or coconut to customize your petits fours. Adding finely grated citrus zest or a few tablespoons of cocoa powder can also create unique flavors that enhance the overall taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).