Quick Florentines are a delightful treat that blend a symphony of nuts and dried fruits, all held together by a deliciously sweet and slightly chewy base. They’re topped with a rich chocolate drizzle that adds a perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these Florentines are sure to impress!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 12 pieces
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180 calories
- Protein: 3g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 20g per serving
- Fat: 9g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Sugar: 8g per serving
- Sodium: 12mg per serving
Why Make This Quick Florentines
Quick Florentines are an ideal bake for anyone looking to create something scrumptious without spending hours in the kitchen. They are loaded with healthy nuts and dried fruits which contribute to their unique texture. Plus, these treats are versatile; you can adapt them to include your favorite nuts or fruits. They serve perfectly as a sweet snack or a charming dessert for gatherings, sure to leave everyone wanting more!
How to Make Quick Florentines
Ingredients:
- 100g dark chocolate
- 50g butter
- 100g sugar
- 50g honey
- 150g mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios)
- 50g dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins)
- 50g flour
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the Florentines from sticking.
Step 2: Mixing
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter, sugar, and honey together over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth. This mixture acts as the glue that binds all the ingredients together.
Step 3: Cooking
Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the mixed nuts, dried fruit, and flour until everything is well combined. This will create a thick, sticky mixture.
Step 4: Finishing
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the lined baking tray, making sure to leave space between each blob as they will spread while baking. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. While the Florentines cool, melt the dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled Florentines. Let them set before serving.
How to Serve Quick Florentines
Quick Florentines are fantastic served warm or at room temperature. They look beautiful on a dessert platter garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt or a dollop of whipped cream alongside fresh fruit. These treats also make an excellent addition to a homemade gift basket!
How to Store Quick Florentines
Store the cooled Florentines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, where they’ll stay fresh for about two weeks. Just be sure to allow them to return to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Quick Florentines
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for drizzling to enhance the overall flavor.
- Feel free to swap out nuts and dried fruits based on your preference or what you have on hand. For a more tropical flavor, try using shredded coconut or macadamia nuts.
- Be careful not to overbake; they should be golden but not too dark, as they will continue to cook slightly after removing from the oven.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate drizzle to balance the sweetness.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Florentines: For an extra indulgent treat, dip the assembled Florentines completely in melted chocolate.
- Spiced Florentines: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the nut mixture for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Vegan Florentines: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup in place of honey for a plant-based version.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I freeze Quick Florentines?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure to layer parchment paper between them to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. -
What nuts work best for this recipe?
While almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios are great choices, feel free to use any of your favorite nuts such as walnuts or pecans. -
Can I make these without flour?
Yes! You can remove the flour entirely for a gluten-free version, although it may slightly alter the texture. Consider adding a bit more nuts to maintain the mixture’s integrity. -
How can I ensure my Florentines are crunchy?
Make sure not to skip the step of letting them bake until they’re golden. Also, allowing them to cool completely will help them firm up. -
How do I know when they are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color around the edges. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft when you take them out.
Conclusion
Quick Florentines are an easy and delicious way to treat yourself and your loved ones. With their rich flavors, delightful textures, and simple preparation steps, they’re perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to gather your family around and make these delightful treats together! Enjoy the sweet aroma as they bake and savor each bite of these wonderfully nutty and chocolaty Florentines. Happy baking!
