Rich, nutty, and irresistibly chocolatey, chocolate financiers are the perfect bite-sized indulgence. These delicate French almond cakes, traditionally made with browned butter and ground almonds, get an upgrade with a luscious cocoa twist. Perfect for any occasion, they’re as elegant as they are easy to make.
We love how these little treats strike the perfect balance between a tender crumb and a slightly crisp exterior. Their origins trace back to 19th-century Paris, where they were crafted for busy financiers seeking a quick yet refined snack. Today, they’ve become a timeless favorite, and adding chocolate only makes them more decadent.
Chocolate Financier Recipe
Ingredients
Let’s gather the ingredients for these rich, chocolatey financiers. Remember to measure everything carefully to ensure flawless results.
- 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (50g) almond flour (finely ground almonds)
- 3/4 cup (90g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder (sifted for smoothness)
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter (browned)
- 4 large egg whites
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup (40g) mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate pieces
Tools You’ll Need
Before diving into the instructions, ensure you have the following tools ready:
- 12-cup mini muffin tin or financier mold
- Fine mesh sieve
- Medium mixing bowls
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- Small saucepan
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Browned Butter
- Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma.
- Once browned, immediately pour it into a bowl to cool slightly. This beurre noisette is the key to the financiers’ depth of flavor.
Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder together.
- Stir in the salt to evenly distribute.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Whites
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are just foamy. No need to stiffen them, as we’re avoiding excessive air.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Gradually fold the foamy egg whites into the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula. Be gentle to maintain the batter’s smooth texture.
- Add the slightly cooled browned butter and stir until combined. The mixture should be thick and glossy.
Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancements
- Stir in the vanilla extract and, if desired, fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for an extra indulgent bite.
Step 6: Fill the Molds
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your molds.
- Fill each mold cavity about 3/4 full with the batter to allow room for rising. Use a spoon or piping bag for precision.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers tender.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Let the financiers cool in the mold for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, paired with coffee or tea.
Quick Baking Tips
| Step | Tips for Success |
|---|---|
| Browning Butter | Watch closely to avoid burning. It should be golden-brown with a nutty scent. |
| Sifting Dry Ingredients | This prevents clumps and ensures an even texture. |
| Greasing the Mold | Use softened butter or non-stick spray to release easily. |
| Cooling Time | Cooling fully ensures the financiers hold their shape. |
These Chocolate Financiers are the epitome of elegance, combining a tender almond base with rich chocolate notes, crowned by a lightly crisp exterior.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect chocolate financiers, we’ll need a precise balance of dry and wet ingredients. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything required to achieve these rich, nutty, and chocolatey French almond cakes.
For The Dry Ingredients
Ensuring precise measurements for the dry ingredients is key to achieving the tender crumb and delicate balance of flavors.
- 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/3 cup (40g) cocoa powder, unsweetened and sifted to prevent lumps
- 2/3 cup (70g) almond flour, finely ground for a smooth texture
- 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, for a light sweetness that blends easily
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, to balance the flavors
For The Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients bring richness and cohesion to the batter while enhancing the financier’s classic nutty undertones.
- 1/2 cup (113g) browned butter, cooled to room temperature (see preparation instructions in the next section)
- 4 large egg whites (120ml), at room temperature for better incorporation
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, for a subtle depth of flavor
Optional Add-Ins
Take your chocolate financiers to the next level with optional add-ins. These additions offer more texture and indulgence, depending on your preference.
- 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips, for an extra burst of chocolate
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as hazelnuts or pecans), toasted for added crunch
- Fresh raspberries or orange zest, for a fruity or citrusy twist
Tools And Equipment
Crafting chocolate financiers requires the right tools to ensure precision and achieve the perfect balance of texture and flavor. As these delicate French cakes rely on exact techniques, having high-quality equipment simplifies the process. Below, we outline the essential tools and their roles.
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized bowls for separating and combining dry and wet ingredients. Use one for whisking the dry mix (like flour and cocoa) and the other for the wet components (egg whites and browned butter).
- Sifter: To ensure a smooth, lump-free texture, we sift the dry ingredients, especially cocoa powder and powdered sugar.
- Whisk: A balloon whisk works excellently for blending the dry ingredients and lightly whisking the egg whites. The airy integration is key to the tender crumb of these financiers.
- Rubber Spatula: This is essential for folding the batter gently without deflating the egg whites, preserving the batter’s light texture.
- Saucepan: Use a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan to prepare the browned butter (beurre noisette), a vital ingredient for the nutty richness of the financier. Ensure it’s heatproof and distributes heat evenly.
- Financier Mold: The iconic rectangular financier mold is ideal for achieving the classic shape, though mini-muffin tins or silicone molds are great substitutes. Ensure it is non-stick or properly greased.
Additional Tools For Efficiency
- Pastry Brush: Perfect for greasing the molds with butter evenly, preventing sticking and ensuring easy release of the financiers after baking.
- Digital Kitchen Scale: A must-have for exact measurements. Precision is critical in French patisserie, especially when dealing with almond flour, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Cooling Rack: Use this to cool the financiers after baking, which maintains the slight crispiness on the exterior without oversteaming the cakes.
Time-Saving Additions
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Stand Mixer (Optional) | For whipping egg whites quickly, though whisking by hand works well too. |
| Piping Bag | To fill the molds cleanly and evenly with the batter, minimizing mess. |
By equipping ourselves with these tools, we set the stage for flawless chocolate financiers—delicately crisp on the outside with a moist, rich crumb inside.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly tender and indulgent chocolate financiers. From prepping the ingredients to baking, each step is designed for simplicity and precision.
Step 1: Prep The Ingredients
- Measure all the ingredients to ensure accuracy. Use a digital kitchen scale for consistent results.
- Brown the butter: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, gently stirring as it foams. Cook until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Immediately remove from heat and strain to remove any solids. Let it cool slightly.
- Sift the dry ingredients for a light, lump-free batter. Combine all-purpose flour, almond flour, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Separate egg whites into a clean, grease-free mixing bowl. Ensure there is no trace of yolk for the best results.
- Grease the financier mold using a pastry brush and melted butter or non-stick spray, then dust lightly with flour.
Step 2: Make The Batter
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy (no need to whip to stiff peaks).
- Gradually pour the frothy egg whites into the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to fold gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the batter’s lightness.
- Slowly stream in the slightly cooled browned butter while folding continuously. The batter should become silky and smooth, with a rich chocolate fragrance. Stir in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Optionally, fold in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other add-ins for a unique twist.
Step 3: Fill The Molds
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared financier molds, filling each cavity about ¾ full. Use a piping bag for precision, if available.
- Gently tap the molds on the counter to level the batter and remove any trapped air bubbles. This step ensures even baking.
| Mold Size | Batter Per Mold | Bake Time |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (3×1″) | 1-1½ tbsp | 12-15 minutes |
| Mini Mold | 1 tbsp | 10-12 minutes |
Step 4: Bake The Financiers
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Place the molds on the center rack and bake. Keep an eye on the financiers as they bake; you’ll know they’re ready when the tops are set, slightly domed, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the molds from the oven and allow the financiers to cool for 5 minutes. Using a cooling rack, gently release the cakes from the molds to prevent over-cooking.
- Once cooled to room temperature, serve as-is, or dust with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
Make-Ahead Tips
When it comes to preparing chocolate financiers ahead of time, a bit of planning goes a long way. These delicate yet rich cakes are perfect for making in advance without sacrificing their signature texture or flavor. Here are some practical tips to ensure your financiers turn out perfectly, even when prepped and stored ahead of time:
1. Prepare the Batter in Advance
The batter for chocolate financiers can be made up to 3 days in advance. Here’s how:
- After preparing the batter following the recipe instructions, transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store the container in the fridge. Chilling the batter can actually enhance the flavors, allowing the cocoa and almond notes to develop more robustly.
- When ready to bake, bring the batter to room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. This ensures even baking.
2. Freeze Unbaked Batter
If you want to go further ahead, freezing is an excellent option:
- Portion the batter into silicone financier molds or another freezer-safe mold.
- Cover the mold tightly with plastic wrap or foil, ensuring the batter is well-sealed.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To bake, pop the molds directly into a preheated oven without thawing. Simply adjust the baking time by adding an extra 2–3 minutes.
Tip: Label the containers with the date to track freshness.
3. Bake and Store the Financiers
Chocolate financiers maintain their delightful texture even after baking when stored correctly. Follow these steps:
- After baking and cooling, store the financiers in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking.
- For short-term storage, keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
4. Freezing Baked Financiers
Baked financiers also freeze beautifully, making them ideal treats to have on hand:
- Wrap individual financiers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Arrange the wrapped financiers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Store for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 2 hours. Alternatively, reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh their slightly crisp exterior.
| Make-Ahead Option | Storage Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Prepared batter (refrigerated) | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container. Bring to room temp before baking. |
| Prepared batter (frozen) | Up to 2 months | Portion into molds, freeze, and bake from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes. |
| Baked financiers (room temp) | Up to 3 days | Store in an airtight container at room temperature. |
| Baked financiers (refrigerated) | Up to 1 week | Store in the fridge, bring to room temp before serving. |
| Baked financiers (frozen) | Up to 3 months | Wrap individually, freeze, and thaw or reheat before serving. |
5. Add a Finishing Touch Before Serving
Whether you bake ahead or serve fresh, finishing touches can elevate your financiers:
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream, berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flair.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving chocolate financiers, simplicity meets elegance. These rich and nutty treats shine both as standalone delights and as part of more elaborate presentations. Here are some ways to elevate the enjoyment of this decadent French dessert:
1. Warm and Simple
Serve the financiers slightly warm for the ultimate indulgence. The warmth enhances the aroma of the brown butter and the richness of the chocolate. To maintain this, we recommend reheating them in a 300°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
2. Dusting with Powdered Sugar
A light dusting of powdered sugar not only complements the sweetness but also adds a classic French patisserie flair. Use a small sieve for an even and delicate layer on top of the financiers. This works especially well if serving during brunch or tea time.
3. Paired with Fruits
Pair these chocolate financiers with fresh, juicy fruits like berries or orange segments. The tartness of raspberries, strawberries, or segments of orange balances the richness of the financiers. Alternatively, try serving them alongside a small fruit compote for contrast.
4. Add a Side of Whipped Cream or Ice Cream
Elevate the dessert further with a dollop of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a more sophisticated twist, consider pairing with cherry or coffee-flavored ice cream.
5. Coffee or Tea Accompaniments
French almond cakes have always been a perfect match with coffee or tea. The nutty almond base paired with the cocoa brings out the robust flavors of a cappuccino or the subtle notes of a classic Earl Grey. Serve them as part of an afternoon tea platter.
6. Dress It Up for Dessert Plates
For an elegant plated dessert, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the financiers and garnish with toasted almond slivers. Add a smear of raspberry coulis or salted caramel sauce for a restaurant-quality finish.
Quick Summary of Pairing Ideas
| Serving Option | Ingredients/Notes |
|---|---|
| Warm and Simple | Serve warm; reheat in a 300°F oven. |
| Powdered Sugar | Light dusting using a sieve for aesthetic appeal. |
| Paired with Fruits | Fresh berries, orange segments, or fruit compote for a tangy balance. |
| Whipped Cream/Ice Cream | Vanilla bean or coffee ice cream; lightly whipped cream. |
| Coffee/Tea Accompaniment | Pair with espresso, cappuccino, or classic teas like Earl Grey or Darjeeling. |
| Plated & Elegant Dessert | Drizzle melted chocolate, garnish with toasted almonds, add coulis or caramel sauce. |
Storage And Reheating
Properly storing and thoughtfully reheating your chocolate financiers ensures they maintain their luxurious flavor, tender crumb, and lightly crisp exterior. Whether you’re saving leftovers or prepping in advance, follow these tips for the best results.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature Storage: Place baked financiers in an airtight container at room temperature. Line the container with parchment paper if stacking is necessary to prevent sticking. These will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For extended freshness, refrigerate the financiers. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or store them in a single layer in an airtight container. This method keeps them delicious for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: To freeze, individually wrap each financier tightly using plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for convenience. Frozen financiers can retain their quality for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Packaging Needed | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | Up to 2 days |
| Refrigeration | Plastic wrap or container | Up to 1 week |
| Freezer | Plastic wrap + freezer bag | Up to 2 months |
Reheating Tips
- Room Temperature Serving: If stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, allow the financiers to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture.
- Oven Reheating: For a fresh-from-the-oven experience, reheat financiers in an oven or toaster oven:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place financiers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Warm for 4-6 minutes, checking to ensure they do not dry out.
- Microwave Option: While not recommended for their crisp exterior, a quick microwave heat works in a pinch:
- Wrap the financier in a moist paper towel to prevent it from becoming too dry.
- Heat for 5-10 seconds on medium power.
Conclusion
Chocolate financiers are a delightful way to bring a touch of French elegance to any occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor, tender crumb, and crisp edges, they’re sure to impress both casual snackers and dessert connoisseurs alike.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll be able to create these indulgent treats with confidence. Whether served simply dusted with powdered sugar or dressed up with fresh fruit and cream, chocolate financiers always deliver a luxurious experience. Let’s get baking and enjoy the magic of these timeless French delicacies!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are chocolate financiers made of?
Chocolate financiers are made with browned butter, almond flour, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, egg whites, all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Optional add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit can enhance their flavor.
What is the origin of chocolate financiers?
Chocolate financiers originated in 19th-century Paris. They were created for busy financiers as an elegant, portable snack that could be enjoyed without making a mess.
What tools are required to make chocolate financiers?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, a whisk, spatula, sifter, saucepan (for browning butter), and a financier mold. Optional tools like digital scales and piping bags can help streamline the process.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, the batter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked batter for later use.
How should chocolate financiers be stored?
Baked financiers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for longer-term storage.
What are some serving suggestions for chocolate financiers?
Serve chocolate financiers warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or pair with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or ice cream. Drizzling melted chocolate or garnishing with toasted nuts adds an elegant touch.
How can I reheat leftover financiers?
For the best texture, reheat financiers in an oven or toaster oven at a low temperature. A quick microwave option is possible but may soften the crisp exterior.
Why is browned butter important in the recipe?
Browned butter adds a nutty, rich flavor to financiers, giving them their signature taste and enhancing both their aroma and texture.
Can I customize chocolate financiers?
Yes, you can customize them with add-ins like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, raspberries, orange zest, or even a drizzle of chocolate or fruit coulis for extra flavor.
How do I achieve the perfect texture?
Ensure you measure ingredients accurately, sift dry ingredients, and gently fold the batter to maintain a light, tender crumb. Do not overmix to avoid a dense texture.