Classic Florentines

Ingredients

• 150g (1 1/4 cups) sliced almonds 150g (1 1/4 cups) sliced almonds
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 30g (2 tablespoons) all-purpose flour 30g (2 tablespoons) all-purpose flour
• 60ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream 60ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 200g (7 ounces) dark chocolate, melted 200g (7 ounces) dark chocolate, melted

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 kJ
• Fat: 8g (3g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (6g sugars)
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.02g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sugar, flour, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined and the sugar has dissolved.
3. 3.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and add the sliced almonds. Mix until the almonds are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. 4.
   Drop spoonfuls of the almond mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.
5. 5.
   Flatten each spoonful of mixture with the back of a spoon to create thin, round cookies.
6. 6.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet.
8. 8.
   Once the cookies have cooled, spread a thin layer of melted dark chocolate on the bottom of each cookie.
9. 9.
   Place the cookies on a wire rack to allow the chocolate to set completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Ensure the sliced almonds are evenly coated with the mixture to prevent them from burning during baking.
• Dark chocolate — Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich and indulgent flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve thin and crispy Florentines, make sure to flatten the spoonfuls of mixture before baking.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before spreading the melted chocolate to prevent it from melting too quickly.
• Experiment with different toppings such as chopped pistachios or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve these delicate Florentines on a beautiful platter alongside a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine. They make a delightful addition to any afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Florentines in a circular pattern on a decorative plate, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top, and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This will create an elegant and inviting presentation.