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Florentines Recipe

Florentines Recipe

Florentines are thin, crisp cookies made from a mixture of nuts, sugar, butter, cream, and often dried fruit. During baking, the mixture spreads and caramelizes to create a delicate lace-like texture. 
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 18 Florentines
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: European
Calories: 140
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Florentines
  • 1 cup sliced almonds
  • ¼ cup chopped pistachios
  • ¼ cup candied orange peel finely chopped
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Base
  • 150 g dark chocolate melted

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Offset spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps the Florentines spread evenly while baking.
    Florentines Recipe Step (1)
Step 2: Make the Caramel Mixture
  1. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, butter, and cream. Heat gently while stirring until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth and slightly bubbly.
    Florentines Recipe Step (6)
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
  1. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the flour, almonds, pistachios, candied orange peel, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
    Florentines Recipe Step (5)
Step 4: Shape and Bake
  1. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the Florentines are golden brown and beautifully caramelized.
    Florentines Recipe Step (4)
Step 5: Cool Completely
  1. Allow the Florentines to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They will become crisp as they cool.
    Florentines Recipe Step (3)
Step 6: Add the Chocolate
  1. Spread melted dark chocolate over the flat side of each cooled Florentine. For a traditional finish, create decorative wavy lines in the chocolate using a fork and allow it to set completely before serving.
    Florentines Recipe Step (2)

Video

Notes

  • Use high-quality nuts for the best flavor and texture.
  • Finely chop the candied orange peel so it distributes evenly.
  • Leave enough space between cookies because they spread significantly while baking.
  • Watch carefully during the last few minutes of baking, as Florentines can brown quickly.
  • Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding chocolate.
  • Use good-quality dark chocolate for a professional bakery-style finish.
  • Store in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness.