Save It An enchanting assortment of celestial-themed mini desserts, perfect for parties or special nights under the stars. This platter features star-shaped lemon shortbread, galaxy mousse cups, and chocolate comet truffles.
I first served this platter at a summer night gathering and it was a huge hit with guests of all ages.
Ingredients
- Lemon Star Shortbread: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, Zest of 1 lemon, 1/4 tsp salt
- Galaxy Mousse Cups: 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 4 oz (115 g) dark chocolate chopped, 2 tbsp (25 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, Blue and purple food coloring, Edible gold stars (optional)
- Chocolate Comet Truffles: 6 oz (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chopped, 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, 1 tbsp (14 g) unsalted butter, 1/4 cup (20 g) cocoa powder, Edible shimmer dust (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon Star Shortbread:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in lemon zest and salt. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out star shapes with a cookie cutter. Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake for 12 14 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Make the Galaxy Mousse Cups:
- Melt chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Cool slightly. Whip cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fold melted chocolate into whipped cream gently. Divide mousse into two bowls. Add blue food coloring to one, purple to the other. Layer spoonfuls of colored mousse into mini dessert cups. Swirl gently for a galaxy effect. Chill at least 1 hour. Top with edible gold stars if desired.
- Prepare the Chocolate Comet Truffles:
- Heat cream and butter in a saucepan until simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Chill mixture 1 hour until firm. Scoop and roll into small balls. Dust with cocoa powder and shimmer dust.
- Arrange the platter:
- Arrange the star shortbread, galaxy mousse cups, and comet truffles on a large platter. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Save It My family loves gathering around this platter during special celebrations, sparking conversations about stars and desserts.
Notes
For vegan options, use plant-based butter and cream substitutes. Other shortbread shapes or mousse colors can be used for different themes. Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or berry-infused mocktail.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, saucepan, star-shaped cookie cutter, baking sheet, parchment paper, mini dessert cups or shot glasses, spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, cream, chocolate), gluten (wheat flour). May contain soy (in chocolate). Always check product labels for possible nut or soy traces.
Save It This dessert platter is guaranteed to impress with both flavor and presentation every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you create the star shapes for the shortbread?
Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut individual pieces before baking.
- → What gives the galaxy mousse its vibrant colors?
Blue and purple food coloring are gently folded into whipped cream and melted dark chocolate to create the galaxy effect.
- → How should the chocolate comet truffles be prepared?
Heat cream and butter, pour over chopped chocolate, stir smooth, chill until firm, then shape into balls and dust with cocoa powder.
- → Can I make this platter suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and cream alternatives to keep textures while avoiding dairy.
- → What is the recommended presentation for serving?
Arrange the star shortbread, mousse cups, and truffles on a large platter for an attractive, themed display perfect for special occasions.