White Almond Petit Fours are elegant, bite-sized almond-flavored cakes coated in a smooth white glaze and finished with sliced almonds. Delicately sweet and beautifully presented, these refined treats are perfect for bridal showers, tea parties, or any occasion that calls for something special. Whether made with a simple cake mix or a homemade almond sponge, they offer a delightful balance of flavor and texture in every miniature square.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant and Refined: These petit fours make a beautiful presentation and add a sophisticated touch to any dessert table.
- Almond Lovers’ Delight: With almond extract and sliced almonds, these cakes have a subtle yet distinctive nutty flavor.
- Customizable: Use white chocolate, fondant, or even a glaze to suit your preference or occasion.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Ideal for gifting, events, or afternoon tea.
- Easy to Prepare: Starting with a cake mix allows for convenience without sacrificing taste or style.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Almond cake mix (or homemade almond cake)
- Butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Almond extract
- Milk (to adjust consistency)
- Sliced almonds (for topping)
- White chocolate or fondant (for coating)
Directions
- Bake the Cake:
Prepare the almond cake according to the package directions or your homemade recipe. Allow it to cool completely. - Cut the Petit Fours:
Once cooled, slice the cake into small, uniform squares. Clean edges help ensure a neat presentation. - Make the Almond Buttercream:
In a bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and almond extract, mixing until smooth. Add milk, a little at a time, until the buttercream is thick but spreadable. - Coat the Cake Squares:
Melt the white chocolate (or prepare fondant) and dip each cake square to coat completely. Use a fork or dipping tool to help remove excess coating. - Top with Almond Slices:
Gently press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each coated petit four before the coating sets. - Set and Serve:
Place the petit fours on a wire rack or parchment-lined tray and allow to set for at least 1 hour before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 16 petit fours
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Assembly and Setting Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Variations
- Flavor Twist: Use lemon, vanilla, or orange extract in place of almond for a different flavor profile.
- Colorful Finish: Tint the white chocolate or fondant with pastel food coloring for a themed presentation.
- Layered Petit Fours: Slice the cake horizontally and add a thin layer of jam or buttercream between layers before cutting into squares.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the almond extract and topping for a simple vanilla petit four.
- Decorative Toppings: Swap almonds for edible flowers, sugar pearls, or gold leaf for upscale finishes.
Storage/Reheating
Store petit fours in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. These treats do not freeze well once coated, as the glaze or fondant may crack upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use homemade almond cake instead of a mix?
Yes, a homemade almond sponge cake works beautifully and may enhance the flavor and texture.
What type of white chocolate is best for coating?
Use high-quality melting chocolate or couverture chocolate for a smooth finish. Avoid white baking chips, which may not melt evenly.
Can I use marzipan as a topping or filling?
Yes, marzipan can be used as a layer or a decorative topping to enhance the almond flavor.
Do I need to chill the petit fours before serving?
Chilling helps the coating set, but they are best served at room temperature for optimal texture.
How do I prevent the white chocolate from seizing?
Melt it gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts. Avoid water contact and add a few drops of vegetable oil for smoother consistency.
Can I freeze the cake before assembling?
Yes, the baked cake can be frozen (wrapped tightly) before slicing and decorating. Thaw fully before coating.
How do I make the coating smooth?
Dip carefully, and tap off excess coating. Adding a small amount of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate can help create a glossy, smooth finish.
Can I assemble these a day in advance?
Yes, assembling them the day before allows the coating to set fully. Store in an airtight container.
Are these gluten-free?
That depends on the cake mix or homemade recipe you use. Choose a gluten-free almond cake to make the petit fours gluten-free.
What tools do I need for dipping?
Use a fork, skewer, or dipping tool. A wire rack is helpful for setting the coated cakes.
Conclusion
White Almond Petit Fours are a sophisticated and charming dessert that’s sure to impress. With their delicate almond flavor, smooth glaze, and elegant presentation, they’re a delightful addition to any special occasion. Whether you serve them at a formal event or simply as a treat with tea, these petit fours are a sweet and memorable way to showcase your baking finesse.
PrintWhite Almond Petit Fours
Elegant and delicate almond-flavored petit fours covered in a smooth white chocolate or fondant glaze and topped with sliced almonds. These bite-sized treats are perfect for tea parties, weddings, or any elegant gathering.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 box almond cake mix (or homemade almond cake)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (for consistency)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)
- 1 cup white chocolate or fondant (for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the almond cake according to the box instructions or your homemade recipe. Let it cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice the cake into small square pieces (about bite-sized).
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and almond extract, beating until smooth.
- Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the buttercream reaches a thick but spreadable consistency.
- Dip each cake square into melted white chocolate or roll in fondant to coat completely.
- Top each petit four with a few sliced almonds, gently pressing them into the coating.
- Allow the petit fours to set at room temperature for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother glaze, add a few drops of vegetable oil to the melted white chocolate.
- If using fondant, roll it thinly for even coating.
- Store petit fours in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 petit four
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg