Pin It A stunning dessert tray inspired by sparkling engagement rings, featuring elegant diamond-shaped sweets and delicate treats perfect for celebrations or bridal showers.
I love making this tray for special occasions as it always impresses guests with its sparkling and delicate treats.
Ingredients
- Diamond Sugar Cookies: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Royal Icing: 2 cups powdered sugar, 2–3 tbsp milk, 1 tbsp light corn syrup, 1/2 tsp almond or vanilla extract, Gel food coloring (silver, light blue, clear sparkle, etc.)
- Edible Rings & Garnishes: 1 cup white chocolate, melted, 1/2 cup silver dragées or edible pearls, 1/2 cup candied violets or rose petals (optional), 12 edible gold leaf sheets (optional), 1/2 cup fresh raspberries or strawberries, for color contrast
Instructions
- Prepare the Diamond Sugar Cookies:
- a. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. b. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. c. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until dough forms. d. Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate 30 minutes. e. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. f. Using diamond and ring-shaped cookie cutters, cut out shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. g. Bake 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Decorate with Royal Icing:
- a. Mix powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and extract to create a smooth, thick icing. b. Divide into bowls and tint with desired gel colors. c. Pipe outlines and flood cookies with icing. While wet, embellish with dragées, edible pearls, or gold leaf for a gem-like effect. Let dry.
- Assemble the Dessert Tray:
- a. Arrange cookies on a decorative platter. b. Drizzle some with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with edible silver, pearls, or gold leaf. c. Garnish tray with candied petals and fresh berries for added elegance and color.
Pin It This tray always brings my family together, sparking joy and sweet memories at every celebration.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, Diamond and ring-shaped cookie cutters, Rolling pin, Parchment paper, Piping bags and fine tips, Decorative serving tray
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), Egg, Milk (dairy). Some decorations may contain nuts or soy; check ingredient labels. Always verify product labels for allergens if serving to guests with sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 2 g per serving.
Pin It This elegant dessert tray is sure to dazzle your guests and make your event unforgettable.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve the diamond shapes for the cookies?
Use diamond and ring-shaped cookie cutters to cut the dough after rolling it to about 1/4-inch thickness for clean shapes.
- → What is the best way to decorate with royal icing?
Create a smooth, thick royal icing by mixing powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and extract. Divide and tint with gel colors, then pipe outlines and flood cookies for a polished look.
- → Can I add a subtle flavor to the icing?
Yes, incorporating almond or vanilla extract adds gentle notes, while a splash of rosewater or orange blossom water lends a floral touch.
- → What edible decorations enhance the presentation?
Silver dragées, edible pearls, gold leaf sheets, and candied flower petals provide a luxurious, gem-like sparkle on the tray.
- → How should I store the decorated cookies before serving?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature once the icing is fully dry to maintain freshness and decoration integrity.
- → Are there options for dietary restrictions?
A gluten-free flour blend can replace all-purpose flour, and checking all decoration labels ensures suitability for allergies.