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Florentines

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These classic Italian-inspired Florentines are delicate, crisp cookies made with toasted almonds, candied fruits, and a sweet honey-butter caramel. The combination of crunchy nuts and chewy fruit creates a complex texture that is both sophisticated and comforting. Once baked, each cookie is dipped in a smooth layer of semi-sweet chocolate, adding a rich, decadent finish that balances the sweetness of the caramel. Perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as an elegant homemade gift, these cookies hold their shape beautifully while offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. They are simple to prepare with pantry staples yet deliver a gourmet result that impresses every time.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 28
Calories: 557.2
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
These classic Italian-inspired Florentines are delicate, crisp cookies made with toasted almonds, candied fruits, and a sweet honey-butter caramel. The combination of crunchy nuts and chewy fruit creates a complex texture that is both sophisticated and comforting. Once baked, each cookie is dipped in a smooth layer of semi-sweet chocolate, adding a rich, decadent finish that balances the sweetness of the caramel. Perfect for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or as an elegant homemade gift, these cookies hold their shape beautifully while offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. They are simple to prepare with pantry staples yet deliver a gourmet result that impresses every time.
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Blanched almonds, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Mixed candied fruits & peels, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup Butter
  • 1/3 cup Milk
  • 1/4 cup Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Honey
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup Semi-sweet chocolate pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Shortening
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
  2. 2
    In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped almonds and candied fruits & peels; set aside.
  3. 3
    In a medium saucepan, combine butter, milk, sugar, and honey.
  4. 4
    Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
  5. 5
    Remove the saucepan from heat.
  6. 6
    Stir in the almond and fruit mixture, then mix in 1/4 cup of flour. Add more flour only if the mixture is too liquidy to hold its shape.
  7. 7
    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease and flour it lightly.
  8. 8
    Drop level tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the baking sheet, spacing them at least 3 inches apart. Work with only 6 cookies at a time to manage baking.
  9. 9
    Using the back of a spoon, flatten each mound into a 3-inch circle.
  10. 10
    Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
  11. 11
    Remove from the oven and let the cookies stand on the baking sheet for 1 minute to firm up.
  12. 12
    Carefully transfer the cookies to a sheet of waxed paper or parchment paper using a spatula. Let them cool completely.
  13. 13
    While cookies cool, melt the semi-sweet chocolate pieces and shortening in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
  14. 14
    Once the cookies are completely cool, spread about 1 teaspoon of the chocolate mixture evenly over the bottom of each cookie.
  15. 15
    Before the chocolate sets, use the tines of a fork to draw decorative wavy lines through the chocolate surface.
  16. 16
    Let the chocolate set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 28

Amount Per Serving
Calories 557.2kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 46.3g72%
Saturated Fat 12.6g63%
Cholesterol 43.4mg15%
Sodium 136.8mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 29.0g10%
Dietary Fiber 7.5g30%
Sugars 18.7g
Protein 13.6g28%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Ingredient Tip: Ensure almonds and candied fruits are finely chopped for even distribution and proper cookie structure.

Variation: You can use dark chocolate or white chocolate for the topping depending on your preference.

Safety: Be careful when handling the hot caramel mixture and hot baking sheets.

Keywords: almonds, caramel, chocolate, cookies, candied fruit, dessert, florentines, honey, italian, nutty, crisp, baking, holiday, gift, traditional, crunchy, indulgent, afternoon tea
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/florentines/