Description
Quick Florentines are delicate, crisp almond biscuits made with a luscious caramel-like mixture crowned with a drizzle of rich dark chocolate. Perfect for an elegant teatime treat or a sophisticated dessert, these quick and easy cookies blend the nutty crunch of sliced almonds with buttery sweetness and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients
Scale
Florentine Mixture
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup caster sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 2 tablespoons double cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Decoration
- 50g dark chocolate, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the baking surface: Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper to ensure the Florentines do not stick during baking.
- Heat the wet ingredients: In a saucepan, gently heat the honey, caster sugar, unsalted butter, and double cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and combined, creating a rich caramel base.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in the plain flour and vanilla extract into the saucepan mixture to help thicken and add flavor consistency to the batter.
- Combine almonds: Mix the sliced almonds thoroughly into the caramel mixture, making sure they are evenly coated for a uniform texture.
- Shape and bake: Spread the almond mixture thinly and evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the florentines are crisp.
- Cool and cut: Remove from the oven and allow the Florentines to cool slightly but remain pliable. Then cut into desired shapes such as rectangles or diamonds.
- Decorate with chocolate: Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the cooled Florentines, then allow the chocolate to set completely before serving for a decadent finish.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, spread the mixture thinner but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Use good quality dark chocolate for a rich, deep flavor.
- Store Florentines in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
- Double cream can be substituted with heavy cream if unavailable.
- Allow the chocolate drizzle to set fully at room temperature or speed up by refrigerating briefly.
