Taiwanese-style Florentines

Ingredients

While the original Italian Florentines are typically made with ingredients like almonds, honey, and candied fruits, the Taiwanese adaptation incorporates local flavors. The Taiwanese-style Florentines feature a more pronounced almond flavor and a lighter, crispier texture. Additionally, the filling is infused with fragrant tea, adding a unique twist to this beloved Italian treat. We alse have the original recipe for Florentines, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (120g) sliced almonds 1 cup (120g) sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) heavy cream 2 tablespoons (30ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) brewed Taiwanese oolong tea, cooled 2 tablespoons (30ml) brewed Taiwanese oolong tea, cooled
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories: 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
• Carbohydrates: 14g (Sugar: 9g)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, heavy cream, and brewed Taiwanese oolong tea. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. 3.
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sliced almonds, all-purpose flour, almond extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. 4.
   Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each Florentine as they will spread during baking.
5. 5.
   Flatten each spoonful of mixture with the back of a spoon to create thin, round Florentines.
6. 6.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the Florentines cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown for enhanced flavor.
• Taiwanese oolong tea — Brew the tea using water that is just below boiling point to extract the best flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced tea flavor, steep the tea leaves in the heavy cream for a few minutes before using.
• Experiment with different types of Taiwanese tea, such as black tea or green tea, to create unique variations of these Florentines.
• If the Florentines spread too much during baking, use a cookie cutter to shape them while they are still warm.
• Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled Florentines for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Store the Florentines in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve these Taiwanese-style Florentines as a delightful afternoon snack or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of Taiwanese oolong tea. They can also be served as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent twist.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Florentines on a serving platter, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint. The delicate, golden-brown cookies will look visually appealing and inviting.