Soulful Florentines

Ingredients

While the original Italian Florentines are typically made with almonds and dried fruits, this soulful adaptation incorporates pecans and sweet potato chips for a Southern touch. The traditional European flavors are enhanced with the warmth and soulfulness of Southern ingredients, resulting in a truly unique and delicious treat. We alse have the original recipe for Florentines, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (120g) pecans, chopped 1 cup (120g) pecans, chopped
• 1 cup (200g) sweet potato chips, crushed 1 cup (200g) sweet potato chips, crushed
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) light corn syrup 1/4 cup (60ml) light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 cup (60ml) bourbon (optional) 1/4 cup (60ml) bourbon (optional)
• 1/2 cup (85g) dark chocolate, melted 1/2 cup (85g) dark chocolate, melted

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, crushed sweet potato chips, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
3. 3.
   In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Cook until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. 4.
   Pour the butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. 5.
   If desired, add the bourbon to the mixture and stir well.
6. 6.
   Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.
7. 7.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the Florentines cool completely on the baking sheet.
9. 9.
   Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the Florentines.
10. 10.
    Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pecans — Make sure to chop the pecans into small pieces for a better texture in the Florentines.
• Sweet potato chips — Crush the chips into small crumbs to evenly distribute their flavor throughout the cookies.
• Bourbon (optional) — If you choose to add bourbon, adjust the amount according to your preference for a subtle or stronger flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more indulgent treat, dip the bottom of the Florentines in melted chocolate as well.
• Experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a variation in flavor.
• Store the Florentines in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
• Serve these soulful Florentines alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.

Serving advice

Serve these soulful Florentines as a delightful dessert or enjoy them with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a comforting snack.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Florentines on a decorative platter or serving tray. Drizzle some additional melted chocolate over the top for an elegant touch. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few pecan halves for a visually appealing presentation.