Hey guys! Ever craved a delicious, petite treat that just melts in your mouth? Well, look no further! Today, we're diving into the world of mini almond hazelnut financiers. These little cakes are not only incredibly easy to make but also pack a serious flavor punch. Imagine the nutty goodness of almonds and hazelnuts combined in a buttery, moist base. Sounds divine, right? Let's get baking!

What are Financiers?

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about what exactly a financier is. Financiers are small French almond cakes, traditionally baked in a mold that resembles a gold bar. The name "financier" is said to come from their popularity in the financial district of Paris, near the Bourse (stock exchange). These cakes are known for their rich, buttery flavor and slightly chewy texture, thanks to the use of brown butter (beurre noisette) and almond flour.

These little cakes are made with almond flour, butter, egg whites, and sugar. The use of brown butter gives them a nutty flavor that complements the almonds beautifully. While the classic financier is made with almonds, there are many variations that include other nuts, chocolate, or fruit. Our recipe today incorporates both almonds and hazelnuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Financiers are perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed as a simple afternoon treat with a cup of tea or coffee, or they can be dressed up for a more formal dessert. Their small size makes them ideal for parties and gatherings, and they are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, even for novice bakers. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create these delightful little cakes in your own kitchen. So, whether you’re looking for a new baking project or just want to impress your friends and family, financiers are a great choice. Get ready to enjoy the delightful combination of nutty flavors and buttery goodness in every bite!

Why This Recipe Works

Okay, so why should you try this particular recipe for mini almond hazelnut financiers? First off, it's foolproof. We've broken down each step to ensure even baking newbies can nail it. Secondly, the combination of almond and hazelnut is a game-changer. The subtle sweetness of almonds paired with the earthy notes of hazelnuts creates a flavor profile that's both sophisticated and comforting. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

But it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the texture too. These financiers boast a perfectly crisp exterior and a moist, tender interior. This contrast is achieved through the use of brown butter (beurre noisette), which not only adds a nutty depth but also helps create that delightful chewiness. Additionally, the use of finely ground almond and hazelnut flours ensures a smooth, delicate crumb that melts in your mouth. The balance of ingredients is carefully calibrated to provide the ideal ratio of sweetness, nuttiness, and moisture. This recipe has been tested and tweaked to perfection, guaranteeing consistent results every time you bake them.

Another reason this recipe stands out is its simplicity. Despite the elegant outcome, the steps are straightforward and easy to follow. You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills to create these delectable treats. This makes it a great option for both experienced bakers looking for a quick and satisfying project and beginners who want to impress with minimal effort. The recipe is also adaptable; feel free to experiment with different nuts, extracts, or even add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit to customize the flavors to your liking. So, whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is a reliable and delicious choice that will not disappoint.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we start, let's gather our ingredients. Here’s what you'll need for these mini almond hazelnut financiers:

• 100g (1 cup) almond flour
• 50g (1/2 cup) hazelnut flour
• 150g (3/4 cup) powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 150g (5.3 oz) unsalted butter
• 4 large egg whites
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: chopped almonds or hazelnuts for garnish

Let's break down each ingredient and why it's important.

• Almond Flour: This is the base of our financiers, providing a delicate, nutty flavor and a tender crumb. Make sure to use finely ground almond flour for the best texture.
• Hazelnut Flour: Adding hazelnut flour enhances the nutty profile, giving the financiers a deeper, richer flavor. If you can’t find hazelnut flour, you can make your own by grinding whole hazelnuts in a food processor until finely ground.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners' sugar, powdered sugar dissolves easily and creates a smooth, tender texture in the financiers. It’s essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• Baking Powder: A small amount of baking powder helps the financiers rise slightly, giving them a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the nutty notes.
• Unsalted Butter: The star of the show! We’ll be making brown butter (beurre noisette), which adds a deep, nutty, and complex flavor to the financiers. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
• Egg Whites: Egg whites provide structure and help bind the ingredients together. They also contribute to the light and airy texture of the financiers.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm and comforting note.
• Optional Garnish: Chopped almonds or hazelnuts can be sprinkled on top of the financiers before baking for added texture and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part! Here’s how to make these irresistible mini almond hazelnut financiers:

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns a golden brown color and emits a nutty aroma. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, hazelnut flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry

Pour the cooled brown butter into the dry ingredients. Add the egg whites and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Prepare the Molds

Grease a mini muffin tin or financier mold with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the cakes from sticking.

Step 5: Fill the Molds

Spoon the batter into the prepared molds, filling each about 3/4 full. If desired, sprinkle chopped almonds or hazelnuts on top.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the financiers cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these little cakes with a cup of coffee or tea. They're best enjoyed fresh!

Tips for the Perfect Financiers

Want to ensure your mini almond hazelnut financiers are absolutely perfect? Here are a few tips:

• Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in tough financiers. Mix until just combined.
• Use Finely Ground Flour: Finely ground almond and hazelnut flours will give you a smoother texture.
• Cool the Brown Butter: Letting the brown butter cool slightly prevents it from cooking the egg whites.
• Grease the Molds Well: This ensures the financiers release easily from the molds.
• Watch the Baking Time: Financiers can burn easily, so keep a close eye on them while baking.

Variations to Try

Feel like getting creative? Here are some fun variations you can try with these mini almond hazelnut financiers:

• Chocolate Chip: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Raspberry: Press a fresh raspberry into the center of each financier before baking.
• Pistachio: Substitute pistachio flour for the hazelnut flour for a different nutty flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Replace some of the powdered sugar with maple syrup for a hint of maple flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These mini almond hazelnut financiers are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

• With Coffee or Tea: The classic pairing. The nutty flavors of the financiers complement a warm beverage perfectly.
• With Ice Cream: Serve warm financiers with a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• With Fresh Fruit: Arrange financiers on a plate with fresh berries or sliced fruit for a light and refreshing treat.
• As Part of a Dessert Platter: Include financiers on a dessert platter with other small treats like macarons, mini tarts, and chocolate truffles.
• As a Gift: Package financiers in a pretty box or bag to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Storage Instructions

To keep your mini almond hazelnut financiers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A simple, yet elegant recipe for mini almond hazelnut financiers. These little cakes are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your friends and family. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake some magic. Enjoy!