Save A whimsical assortment of miniature desserts inspired by classic French pastries, arranged to resemble a charming train track. Perfect for festive occasions, afternoon teas, or as an elegant dessert platter.
This charming train track of assorted mignardises showcases classic French pastries in miniature form and offers great variety for guests.
Ingredients
- Choux Pastry: 60 ml water , 60 ml whole milk , 50 g unsalted butter cubed , 1/2 tsp granulated sugar , Pinch of salt , 70 g all-purpose flour , 2 large eggs
- Chocolate Ganache: 100 g dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) chopped , 100 ml heavy cream
- Mini Financiers: 60 g unsalted butter , 50 g almond flour , 40 g icing sugar , 20 g all-purpose flour , Pinch of salt , 2 large egg whites
- Fruit Tartlets: 100 g sweet shortcrust pastry (pâté sucrée) , 80 ml pastry cream , 40 g assorted fresh berries (raspberries , blueberries , strawberries)
- Decoration: 20 g powdered sugar (for dusting) , 1 tbsp edible gold leaf or silver pearls (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- For the choux pastry In a medium saucepan combine water , milk , butter , sugar , and salt. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat , add flour , and stir vigorously until a dough forms. Return to heat and cook for 1–2 minutes , stirring constantly. Transfer to a bowl , let cool slightly , then beat in eggs one at a time until smooth and glossy.
- Step 3:
- Pipe small rounds onto a baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until puffed and golden. Cool completely.
- Step 4:
- For chocolate ganache Heat cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate , let stand 1 minute , then stir until glossy and smooth. Cool to room temperature.
- Step 5:
- For mini financiers Melt butter until golden brown (beurre noisette). Cool slightly. In a bowl , mix almond flour , icing sugar , all-purpose flour , and salt. Whisk in egg whites , then fold in browned butter. Spoon into mini financier molds or mini muffin tins. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
- Step 6:
- For tartlets Roll out sweet shortcrust pastry and cut into small rounds. Press into mini tartlet molds. Prick bases , bake blind at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes. Cool , then fill with pastry cream and top with berries.
- Step 7:
- Assemble the mignardises on a large platter or board to resemble a winding train track line up choux puffs filled or dipped with ganache , financiers as train cars , tartlets as stations. Decorate with powdered sugar and gold leaf or silver pearls for extra flair.
Save This recipe brings our family together especially during festive celebrations when we share these delightful treats.
Notes
For a playful touch add chocolate rails or cookie tracks. Pair with Champagne , Sauternes , or tea.
Required Tools
Saucepan , Mixing bowls , Piping bag , Mini muffin/financier molds , Mini tartlet molds , Baking sheets , Whisk
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs , Milk , Wheat (Gluten) , Tree Nuts (Almonds). May contain traces of soy if using certain chocolates. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Save This whimsical train of mignardises is sure to impress guests and delight dessert lovers alike.
Cooking Guide
- → What is the best way to ensure choux pastry puffs up perfectly?
Bring the dough to a boil and cook it on the stove to remove moisture before adding eggs. Pipe onto parchment and bake until golden and hollow inside for optimal puffiness.
- → How do you achieve the perfect consistency for chocolate ganache?
Heat heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Let it sit briefly before stirring gently until smooth and glossy.
- → Can the mini financiers be made ahead of time?
Yes, mini financiers can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their buttery texture.
- → What types of berries work best for the tartlets?
Fresh raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries provide vibrant color and balanced sweetness, enhancing both look and flavor.
- → How can I add a festive touch to the platter assembly?
Dust the assembled pieces with powdered sugar and decorate with edible gold leaf or silver pearls for an elegant and celebratory finish.
- → Are there any recommended beverage pairings?
Pair these delicate pastries with Champagne, Sauternes, or a fine tea to complement their flavors and textures.