Classic Almond Friands

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (180g) ground almonds 1 ½ cups (180g) ground almonds
• 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
• ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, melted ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 large egg whites 4 large egg whites
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sliced almonds, for garnish Sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 14g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a friand pan or muffin tin.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds and powdered sugar.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the melted butter and vanilla extract to the egg whites, whisking continuously.
5. 5.
   Pour the egg white mixture into the almond mixture and gently fold until well combined.
6. 6.
   Spoon the batter into the prepared friand pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle a few sliced almonds on top of each friand.
8. 8.
   Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the friands are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. 9.
   Allow the friands to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground almonds — Make sure to use finely ground almonds for a smooth texture in the friands.
• Egg whites — Ensure that there are no traces of egg yolk in the whites, as it may affect the texture of the friands.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can fold in a handful of fresh berries or chopped dried fruits into the batter before baking.
• If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract in addition to the vanilla extract.
• Dust the cooled friands with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.
• Serve the friands warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Store the friands in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Classic Almond Friands as a delightful treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They are perfect for afternoon tea parties, brunches, or as a sweet ending to a French-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the friands on a beautiful platter, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh mint leaves. The golden hue of the friands and the sprinkle of sliced almonds on top will make for an inviting presentation.