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Lemon Petit Fours Recipe

5 from 150 reviews

These delightful Lemon Petit Fours are elegant, bite-sized treats made with layered frozen pound cake, lemon curd, and a smooth, tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for parties or afternoon tea, they offer a light citrus flavor balanced with sweetness and a beautiful decorative finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Pound Cake Layers

  • 1 package (10.75 ounces) frozen pound cake
  • 1 jar lemon curd or lemon frosting (approximately 8 ounces)

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 box (16 ounces) powdered sugar
  • ½ cup corn syrup
  • ½ cup water (divided, some for glaze, some hot water for adjusting consistency)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon extract

Decorations

  • Choice of decorations such as tiny candy vermicelli or icing flowers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pound cake slices: Cut off the top and sides of the frozen pound cake, then slice it into small squares for petit fours.
  2. Slice layers: Halve each square lengthwise into three thinner slices and set them aside carefully.
  3. Layer with lemon curd: Spread a thin layer of lemon curd or frosting evenly on both the base and middle slices, then stack them together to create layered petit fours.
  4. Secure layers: Gently press down on the top slice to ensure all layers stick firmly together.
  5. Repeat layering: Continue this process for the remaining slices, arranging the petit fours on a wire rack set over a baking tray to catch any drips.
  6. Prepare lemon glaze: In a 3-quart pan, combine powdered sugar, water, and corn syrup; mix thoroughly to combine.
  7. Heat glaze mixture: Add lemon extract and heat slowly over low flame, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the glaze is smooth.
  8. Adjust consistency: Turn off heat, then gradually stir in hot water to reach a glaze consistency that is pourable but not runny.
  9. Glaze the petit fours: Drizzle about one tablespoon of warm glaze over each petit four, then use an offset spatula or knife to coat evenly along the sides and top.
  10. Add decorations: Immediately garnish each glazed petit four with candy vermicelli, icing flowers, or other decorations while the glaze is still wet.
  11. Set glaze: Allow the petit fours to sit at room temperature so the glaze can cool and set firmly.
  12. Serve: Present these charming lemon petit fours for dessert or special occasions once the glaze has fully set.

Notes

  • Ensure the pound cake is frozen before slicing for cleaner cuts.
  • If lemon curd is too thick, warm slightly to spread easily.
  • The glaze should be warm when applying to enable a smooth coating but not hot enough to melt the cake layers.
  • Decorations should be added immediately after glazing to ensure they stick well.
  • Store petit fours in a cool area to prevent glaze from becoming sticky.

Keywords: lemon petit fours, lemon glaze, pound cake dessert, layered cake bites, elegant dessert, lemon curd petit fours