Financiers are classic French almond cakes known for their moist, tender crumb and buttery, nutty flavor. Using 8 egg whites, this recipe yields delicate, golden-brown financiers that are perfect for using up leftover whites and impressing guests with an elegant, simple treat. Their small size and subtle sweetness make them ideal for teatime or dessert.
Ingredients
- 8 large egg whites (about 250g)
- 150g (1 cup) powdered sugar (icing sugar)
- 60g (½ cup) all-purpose flour
- 150g (1 ½ cups) almond flour (ground almonds, preferably blanched)
- 150g (10 tbsp) unsalted butter
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Butter and flour or baking spray for molds
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a financier mold or mini muffin tin by greasing it with butter and lightly dusting with flour, or use a nonstick baking spray.
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking it until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (beurre noisette). Watch carefully to avoid burning. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients well ensures an even texture.
- Lightly whisk the egg whites just to break them up—they should be foamy but not whipped. Gently fold the egg whites into the dry ingredients using a spatula, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
- Slowly drizzle the warm browned butter into the batter while folding continuously. Add the vanilla extract here if using. The batter will be smooth and slightly runny.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared molds, filling each about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the financiers are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the financiers cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips
- Substitution: If you don’t have almond flour, finely ground blanched almonds can be used, but the texture will be coarser. Alternatively, hazelnut flour can add a different nutty flavor.
- Storage: Store financiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid over-whisking the egg whites; they should be just slightly foamy, not stiff peaks. Also, do not burn the browned butter—it should be golden and fragrant, not dark brown or black.
- Pan choice: Traditional financiers are baked in small rectangular molds, but mini muffin tins or silicone molds work well and are easier to find.
Serving Suggestions
Financiers are delicious on their own with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent treat, serve them with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche. They also pair beautifully with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. For brunch or dessert, try them alongside a fruit compote or a light citrus curd to balance the rich almond flavor.
Variations
You can customize financiers in many ways. Adding a teaspoon of finely grated orange or lemon zest to the batter brightens the flavor. For extra texture, fold in a handful of chopped toasted almonds or pistachios. Chocolate lovers might enjoy a few mini chocolate chips folded in or a thin layer of melted dark chocolate spread on top after baking. For a seasonal twist, swap the almond flour for hazelnut flour or add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for warmth.
Storage and Reheating
Store financiers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their tender crumb. If you need to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option—wrap each financier individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month without significant loss of flavor or texture.
To reheat, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then warm in a preheated 160°C (320°F) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them rubbery. Warming brings back their freshly baked texture and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg whites?
Traditional financiers rely on egg whites for their light texture and subtle chewiness. Using whole eggs will change the texture, making the cakes denser and less delicate. If you only have whole eggs, consider another almond cake recipe better suited for them.
What if I don’t have almond flour?
Almond flour is essential for the characteristic flavor and texture of financiers. If unavailable, finely ground blanched almonds can substitute, although the texture will be a bit grainier. Avoid using almond meal with skins, as it can alter the color and texture.
Why do I need to brown the butter?
Browning the butter (beurre noisette) develops nutty, caramel-like flavors that elevate the financiers beyond simple almond cakes. It also adds richness and moisture. Skipping this step will result in a blander cake.
Can I make financiers without a mold?
While financier molds create the traditional rectangular shape, you can use mini muffin tins, silicone molds, or even spoon the batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to create small cookies. Baking times may vary slightly, so watch for golden edges and a clean toothpick test.
How do I know when financiers are done baking?
Financiers are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cakes should spring back slightly when gently pressed. Overbaking can dry them out.
Can I add flavors like chocolate or fruit to the batter?
Yes, you can fold in mini chocolate chips or small pieces of dried fruit to add variety. Fresh berries may release too much moisture and affect the texture, so it’s best to add them as a topping or serve alongside the financiers rather than mixing them into the batter.
With these tips and techniques, you can master the art of the 8 egg white financier, creating elegant, tender cakes that showcase the nutty richness of browned butter and almonds. Whether for a special occasion or everyday indulgence, financiers offer a delightful way to use egg whites and impress with classic French baking.
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