Zhejiang-style Almond Friand

Ingredients

In this Zhejiang-style adaptation, the traditional French friand is transformed by incorporating the unique flavors and ingredients of Zhejiang cuisine. The original recipe is modified to include local ingredients such as Zhejiang almonds and traditional Zhejiang spices, resulting in a distinct flavor profile that reflects the essence of Zhejiang cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Friand, so you can check it out.

• 150g (1 1/4 cups) Zhejiang almonds, finely ground 150g (1 1/4 cups) Zhejiang almonds, finely ground
• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 50g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour 50g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Zhejiang five-spice powder 1/4 teaspoon Zhejiang five-spice powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 12g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a friand pan.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the ground Zhejiang almonds, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, Zhejiang five-spice powder, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the almond mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. 6.
   Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. 7.
   Pour the batter into the prepared friand pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
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.
10. 10.
    Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Zhejiang almonds — Make sure to finely grind the almonds for a smooth texture in the friand batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra Zhejiang touch, sprinkle some crushed Zhejiang almonds on top of the friands before baking.
• Serve the friands warm with a drizzle of Zhejiang honey for added sweetness.
• Experiment with different Zhejiang spices, such as star anise or Sichuan peppercorns, to add a unique twist to the recipe.
• If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, add a few drops of almond extract to the batter.
• These friands can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Zhejiang-style Almond Friands as a delightful dessert or enjoy them with a cup of Zhejiang green tea for a perfect afternoon treat. Dust them with powdered sugar and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Zhejiang-style Almond Friands on a decorative platter, dusted with powdered sugar. Place a small bowl of Zhejiang honey nearby for dipping or drizzling. Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the platter with edible flowers or a sprinkle of ground Zhejiang almonds.