Wow, it's been too long since I posted!! But I hope you'll forgive me when you see what I'm going to share with you today! These pretty little pastries are called French Bonbons, and I'm going to show you how to make them!
I suspect that these pastries are just called french because they are such fancy little affairs, but they really have New Zealand origins! The recipe for the French Bonbons comes from Alexa Johnston, author of the New Zealand Cookbook Ladies, A Plate. The Bonbons have a sponge cake base, a meringue cookie top, and whipped cream and jam in between! The recipe involves several steps, but each step is not difficult. It's the sort of recipe that would be so pretty for a bridal shower or tea, and the extra effort would be so worth it!
The recipe for the French Bonbons isn't in the book, but you will find a treasure trove of vintage New Zealand recipes just like Grandma used to make. The recipes include Lamingtons, Cream Filled Sponges, Ginger Kisses, Custard Squares, and Chocolate 'Eclairs to name a few!
OK, are you ready to make them? Let's get started! We'll begin with the sponge cake base. First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
