Save to Pinterest 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.
This platter quickly became my go-to for special nights because it’s visually stunning and offers a variety of tastes that everyone loves.
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
- Assemble Platter:
- Arrange the star shortbread galaxy mousse cups and comet truffles on a large platter Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy
Save to Pinterest This dessert platter always brings joy to my family gatherings as everyone enjoys picking their favorite celestial treat while sharing stories under the night sky.
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 to Pinterest This dessert platter is the perfect final touch to any celebration under the stars bringing both flavor and visual delight.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I achieve the galaxy effect in the mousse cups?
Use blue and purple food coloring folded gently into separate portions of whipped chocolate mousse. Layer them alternately and swirl lightly to create a marbled galaxy appearance.
- → What is the best way to cut the star shapes for the shortbread?
Roll the dough evenly to about 1/4 inch thick and press a star-shaped cookie cutter firmly to obtain clean edges before baking.
- → Can the truffles be made ahead of time?
Yes, truffles can be chilled until firm, then rolled and dusted just before serving or stored in the refrigerator for up to several days.
- → Are vegan alternatives possible for the dairy ingredients?
Yes, plant-based butter and cream substitutes can replace the dairy components to suit vegan preferences.
- → How should the platter be stored before serving?
Keep the assembled platter refrigerated to maintain mousse firmness and freshness, serving chilled or shortly after removal.