Delicious and Classic Financiers Recipe

Ingredients

125 grams of unsalted butter
100 grams of icing sugar
25 grams of all-purpose flour
75 grams of almond flour
Pinch of salt
100 grams of egg whites (about 3 large eggs)
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Optional: 1 tablespoon of honey
Optional: Handful of berries or nuts for topping

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare your financier moulds or muffin tin by lightly greasing them with butter.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns a golden brown color. This is known as beurre noisette. Once ready, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the icing sugar, all-purpose flour, almond flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy. They do not need to form peaks.
Gradually add the egg whites to the dry ingredients, mixing well to incorporate. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour in the cooled melted butter and mix until the batter is smooth. If desired, add the optional honey and stir to combine.
Spoon the batter into the prepared moulds or muffin tin, filling each one nearly to the top.
If using, place a few berries or nuts on top of the batter in each mould.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the financiers are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the financiers to cool in the moulds for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

Mixing bowls - You will need a few different sized mixing bowls to prepare and combine the ingredients.
Saucepan - A small saucepan will be used to melt the butter and create beurre noisette.
Whisk - A whisk is necessary to beat the egg whites until frothy and mix the batter ingredients together.
Spatula - A spatula will help you to scrape the sides of the bowl and fold the ingredients together.
Financier moulds or muffin tin - These special moulds are traditionally used to shape the financiers, but a regular muffin tin can also be used.
Baking sheet - A baking sheet will be needed to place the moulds or muffin tin on while baking.
Wire rack - A wire rack is used to cool the financiers after they are baked.
Toothpick - You will need a toothpick to test the doneness of the financiers.

Recipe variations

Replace almond flour with hazelnut flour for a different flavor.
Add lemon zest or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
Mix in chopped chocolate or chocolate chips for a chocolatey version.
Add a teaspoon of matcha powder for a green tea-infused financier.
Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Swap the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Experiment with different toppings such as sliced almonds, dried fruits, or coconut flakes.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a spiced variation.
Include a teaspoon of espresso powder for a coffee-flavored financier.
For a savory twist, mix in herbs like thyme or rosemary and incorporate grated cheese like Parmesan or Gruyere.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of homemade Financiers, a classic French pastry that's delightfully easy to make. These small cakes, traditionally baked in the shape of a gold bar, feature a moist, tender crumb with a crisp exterior, thanks to the key ingredient - beurre noisette, or browned butter. Made with a blend of almond flour and all-purpose flour, these light treats offer a wonderful nutty undertone. You can top them off with a handful of berries or nuts for added texture and flavor. Our straightforward recipe will guide you through the process step by step, making it simple for anyone to bake these elegant pastries from scratch. Whether you're serving them at a brunch or as a sweet afternoon snack, Financiers are sure to impress.

Common questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
No, it is best to use unsalted butter in this recipe as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the financiers.
Can I substitute almond flour with regular flour?
No, almond flour is a key ingredient in financiers and provides their distinct texture and flavor. Substituting it with regular flour will result in a different outcome.
Can I use a different type of nut flour?
Yes, you can experiment with different nut flours such as hazelnut flour or pistachio flour to add unique flavors to your financiers.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of icing sugar?
Icing sugar is preferred in this recipe as it contributes to the texture of the financiers. Substituting it with granulated sugar may result in a different texture.
Can I make financiers without a financier mould?
Yes, if you don't have a financier mould, you can use a regular muffin tin or even a mini muffin tin. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
Can I freeze the financiers?
Yes, financiers freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be thawed at room temperature or reheated in a low-temperature oven.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowl - A large bowl for combining the dry ingredients and mixing the batter.
Saucepan - Small saucepan for melting the butter and creating beurre noisette.
Whisk - Utensil used for whisking the egg whites until frothy.
Spoon - A spoon for spooning the batter into the moulds or muffin tin.
Financier moulds or muffin tin - Special-shaped moulds designed for making financiers, or a regular muffin tin can be used as an alternative.
Wire rack - A rack for cooling the financiers after baking.

Origin stories

Ah, the financier, that dainty French pastry with its unassuming allure. The birth of this delicacy is heavily steeped in the world of finance, quite fitting to its name. It was Pierre Lacam, a pastry chef in the late 19th century, who is credited with inventing this treat in its now-familiar rectangular shape, reminiscent of a gold bar. He was the master pâtissier at a bakery near the Bourse - the stock exchange - in Paris, where many a money-minded individual would frequent. These little cakes, it was found, were easy for these busy patrons to hold and eat without dirtying their hands. Quite the practical treat for the on-the-go financier! And thus, the financier was born, its name forever bearing the imprint of its original clientele.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.