Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Almond Raspberry Financiers are a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The almond base creates a rich and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the juicy, tart raspberries on top. The crispy edges give way to a soft, moist center, creating a treat that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Not only are they delicious, but their small size and elegant presentation make them perfect for any occasion, from a tea party to a special dessert at dinner.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup ground almonds (85g)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour (102g)
- ¾ cup sugar (92g)
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (85g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large egg whites (85g)
- 1 pint raspberries or blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup sliced almonds (for sprinkling on top)
- Powdered icing sugar (for dusting)
- 7 4-inch nonstick tart molds (or mini muffin tin or mini loaf pans, greased)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your tart molds or any baking mold you are using with nonstick cooking spray or butter and flour.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine ground almonds, flour, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and beat for about 2 minutes until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix. Gradually add the egg whites, one at a time, mixing for 2 minutes after each addition.
- Fill Molds: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared molds. Place a few raspberries on top of each, followed by a sprinkle of sliced almonds.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the financiers are golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges. The exact time may vary depending on your mold size.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cakes cool in the molds for a few minutes before turning them out. Cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 7 small cakes
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Substitutes: You can replace raspberries with blueberries, blackberries, or even strawberries for a different fruity twist.
- Add a Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a light lemon glaze or honey syrup over the cooled cakes.
- Nuts and Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a spiced flavor, or replace some of the ground almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios for a different nutty profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: These cakes are best enjoyed on the day they’re made, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the financiers for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To bring back their fresh texture, gently reheat the financiers in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a more intense almond flavor, but the texture will be slightly different.
2. Do I have to use lemon zest?
While the lemon zest adds a fresh, citrusy aroma, you can leave it out if you prefer a more neutral flavor.
3. Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen raspberries will work, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the cakes.
4. How can I make these financiers more decadent?
For an extra indulgent touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cakes or add a dollop of whipped cream on top when serving.
5. Can I make these financiers without the tart molds?
Yes, you can use a mini muffin tin or mini loaf pans instead. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly based on the size of your pans.
6. How do I know when the financiers are done?
The financiers are done when they are golden brown around the edges and spring back slightly when pressed. You can also insert a toothpick to check if it comes out clean.
7. Can I use other types of berries?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different berries such as blackberries, strawberries, or even a mix of several fruits.
8. Can I make these financiers ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day or two ahead. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve their freshness.
9. What can I serve these financiers with?
These financiers are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with a light fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
10. Can I make a bigger batch of these financiers?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make more financiers. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if using larger or additional molds.
Conclusion
Almond Raspberry Financiers are a beautifully refined treat that combines the rich flavor of almonds with the tangy sweetness of fresh raspberries. Their delicate texture, crispy edges, and moist center make them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether for a special celebration or a casual afternoon snack, these financiers will be a hit with everyone who tries them.
Almond Raspberry Financiers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 7 small cakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Almond Raspberry Financiers are delicate French almond cakes with a crispy exterior and moist, buttery interior. The addition of fresh raspberries creates a delightful contrast, making them perfect for any special occasion or tea-time snack.
Ingredients
¾ cup ground almonds (85g)
¾ cup all-purpose flour (102g)
¾ cup sugar (92g)
Grated zest of 1 lemon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (85g)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large egg whites (85g)
1 pint raspberries or blueberries (fresh or frozen)
½ cup sliced almonds (for sprinkling on top)
Powdered icing sugar (for dusting)
7 4-inch nonstick tart molds (or mini muffin tin or mini loaf pans, greased)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your tart molds or any baking mold you are using with nonstick cooking spray or butter and flour.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine ground almonds, flour, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the softened butter to the dry mixture and beat for about 2 minutes until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix. Gradually add the egg whites, one at a time, mixing for 2 minutes after each addition.
- Fill Molds: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared molds. Place a few raspberries on top of each, followed by a sprinkle of sliced almonds.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the financiers are golden brown and slightly crispy around the edges. The exact time may vary depending on your mold size.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cakes cool in the molds for a few minutes before turning them out. Cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
You can replace raspberries with other berries like blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries.
If using frozen raspberries, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
For extra sweetness, drizzle a light lemon glaze or honey syrup over the cooled cakes.
Store these financiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 financier
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
