Pin A festive dessert platter featuring elegant, sparkling treats arranged in the shape of a clock—perfect for counting down to midnight on New Years Eve.
This platter has become my go-to festive dessert that impresses guests every time.
Ingredients
- Cookies and Pastries: 12 large round shortbread cookies (store-bought or homemade), 8 mini chocolate éclairs, 8 mini cream puffs
- Fruits: 1 cup seedless green grapes, 1 cup fresh strawberries, halved, 1 cup blueberries
- Sparkling Decorations: 1/2 cup edible gold or silver sprinkles, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, Edible gold leaf (optional)
- Dips and Extras: 1 cup whipped cream, 1 cup chocolate ganache or chocolate sauce, 12 chocolate numbers (1–12) or melted chocolate for piping numbers
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Arrange the 12 shortbread cookies in a large circle on a serving platter to mimic the hours on a clock face.
- Step 2:
- Pipe or stick chocolate numbers (1–12) onto each cookie, or use melted chocolate to write numbers directly.
- Step 3:
- Place the mini éclairs and cream puffs attractively between and around the cookies for added variety.
- Step 4:
- Fill the center of the platter with grapes, strawberries, and blueberries, arranging them in a visually pleasing pattern.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle edible gold or silver decorations over the fruits and pastries for a sparkling effect.
- Step 6:
- Lightly dust the entire platter with powdered sugar for a snowy look.
- Step 7:
- Add dollops of whipped cream and chocolate ganache in small bowls around the platter for dipping.
- Step 8:
- Optionally, accent with flakes of edible gold leaf for extra glamour.
- Step 9:
- Just before midnight, use two thin chocolate sticks or piped chocolate strips to form clock hands pointing at 12.
Pin Our family always gathers around this platter every New Years Eve making special memories.
Notes
For extra texture add macarons or meringues. Pair the platter with sparkling wine or non-alcoholic cider.
Required Tools
Large round serving platter, piping bag or zip-top bag for chocolate numbers, small bowls for dips, and a sifter for powdered sugar.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk, soy, and possibly nuts in pastries or decorations. Check labels for allergens in store-bought items.
Pin This dessert platter shines as the perfect centerpiece. Get ready to wow your guests effortlessly.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make the platter gluten-free?
Substitute the shortbread cookies and pastries with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.
- → What fruits can I use for decoration?
Use seedless grapes, strawberries, blueberries, or any seasonal fruits for color variation and freshness.
- → How do I create the clock numbers on the cookies?
Pipe melted chocolate or place ready-made chocolate numbers (1–12) onto each cookie to mimic clock hours.
- → Can I add other sweets to the platter?
Yes, macarons or meringues can add extra color and texture alongside the éclairs and cream puffs.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
Serve with dips like whipped cream and chocolate ganache, and pair with sparkling wine or non-alcoholic cider for celebratory occasions.