Ingredients
Financiers
- 60 grams (2.1 ounces) almond flour
- 60 grams (2.1 ounces) wheat flour
- 150 grams (5.3 ounces) powdered sugar
- 160 grams (5.6 ounces) egg whites
- 90 grams (3.2 ounces) butter
- 2 grams (0.07 ounces) baking powder
Chocolate Ganache
- 70 grams (2.5 ounces) milk chocolate
- 60 grams (2.1 ounces) cream
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
Ensure you have a few mixing bowls in various sizes; you’ll need them for combining different ingredients.
- Hand Mixer
A basic hand mixer will do the trick for blending your butter and egg whites to a smooth consistency.
- Pastry Bags
For a professional touch, use pastry bags to pipe your ganache onto the financiers. An alternative would be a resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off.
- Muffin or Financier Molds
These are key to getting the right shape and texture. Silicone molds make for easier release, but any non-stick version works excellently too.
- Oven
A reliable oven where you can control the temperature accurately is critical for baking these to perfection.
- Blender
A blender is needed to achieve that silky, smooth texture for the chocolate ganache. A handheld stick blender works great as well.
- Cooling Rack
Allow your pastries to cool evenly by using a wire cooling rack.
Instructions
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Servings
A feast for the senses, these financiers are best enjoyed fresh from the oven with a generous drizzle of chocolate ganache. **🎉 For a cocktail party, try serving them on a sleek platter with a variety of fruits and cheeses.**
**👩🍳 Alternatively, if you're hosting a brunch, pair these with a selection of jams and a pot of freshly brewed coffee.** Your guests will adore the balance of sweet pastry and rich chocolate flavors.
Need a quick weekday treat? **☕ These financiers make the perfect companion to your afternoon tea or cappuccino.** Their almond essence and fluffy texture feel like a warm hug in every bite.
**💖 For a romantic date night, serve them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a sprig of mint.** The contrast in temperatures and flavors will have your special someone swooning.
Variations
**🌱 Gluten-Free**: Swap the wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend; your financiers will still turn out divine. **🍫 For an extra chocolatey touch, consider gluten-free cocoa powder dusted on top.**
**🌿 Vegan**: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. **Instead of egg whites, use aquafaba** (the liquid from canned chickpeas), which whips up to a similar consistency.
**🍫 For the ganache**, use dairy-free cream and vegan chocolate. Whip them up just as you would in the original recipe and voilà – you'll have a vegan dessert that's just as indulgent!
Faq
- Why did my financiers turn out dense?
Make sure not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Also, always use fresh baking powder for the best rise.
- Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with different flours, but keep in mind that the texture may change. Almond flour is crucial for the nutty flavor, so try to keep it in the mix.
- How do I store leftover financiers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. Reheat slightly before serving.
- Can I make the ganache ahead of time?
Absolutely! The ganache can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated. Whip it just before using for the best texture.
- How can I make my ganache smoother?
Using a blender or handheld stick blender can help achieve a velvety smooth consistency. Ensure the chocolate is fully melted before blending.
- Can I freeze the financiers?
Yes, financiers freeze well. Once completely cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving for best results.
