There’s something undeniably delightful about pistachio financiers that makes my heart flutter every time I pop one into my mouth! These little almond-shaped cakes are wonderfully moist, with a light crumb and just a hint of sweetness that perfectly showcases the nutty flavor of pistachios. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a French bakery tour in Paris, where I had the most exquisite financier. Each bite was a burst of memories, and ever since, I’ve been hooked on making these treats at home.
Every time I whip up a batch of pistachio financiers, they bring back memories of wandering through cobblestone streets, finding charming cafés, and savoring every pastry I could get my hands on. What I love most about these financiers is how easy they are to make! Perfect for brunch gatherings, tea parties, or even just a quiet afternoon Pick-Me-Up, they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them.
What’s in Pistachio Financiers?
Pistachios: The star of the show! I prefer to use raw pistachios to create a fresh flavor. They also add a beautiful green color to the financiers. Just make sure you finely chop them so they blend well into the batter.
Almond flour: This gluten-free alternative adds richness and a slight chewiness to the financiers. I often choose Bob’s Red Mill brand for my baking, but any good quality nut flour will do!
Butter: Ah, the wonder of browned butter! It adds a nutty flavor and depth to the cakes. Just be careful while browning; it can go from delicious to burnt pretty quickly!
Egg whites: They provide that light and airy texture we love in financiers. Don’t waste the yolks! I usually save them for homemade mayonnaise or custard.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is perfect here to give just enough sweetness. I’ve also played around with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor, and it works beautifully!
Vanilla extract: Just a splash elevates the flavor to another level. I like using pure vanilla extract, but if you can find the fresh vanilla beans, that’s a game changer!
Is Pistachio Financiers Good for You?
Absolutely! Let’s break it down:
Pistachios: These little green gems are not just delicious; they’re packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They are also a good source of antioxidants and essential vitamins like B6.
Almond flour: It’s lower in carbs than regular flour and offers a good amount of healthy fats and vitamin E, making it a healthy alternative for those watching their carb intake.
However, be mindful that they can be calorie-dense, so moderation is key if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Ingredients List
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 4 large egg whites
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
This recipe makes about 12 financiers.
How to Make Pistachio Financiers?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your financier molds or use a silicone mold for easy removal.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, allowing it to brown slightly until it becomes fragrant. Stir occasionally to promote even browning. Once brown, remove from heat and let it cool a bit.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, finely chopped pistachios, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
4. Add the egg whites to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Don’t overmix though; a few lumps are okay!
5. Pour in the browned butter and vanilla extract, gently folding until everything is incorporated.
6. Spoon the batter into your prepared molds, filling each one about three-quarters full.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow them to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.
Perfect Pairings and Variations
These financiers stand out on their own, but if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try:
– **Adding a touch of lemon zest**: It adds a fresh twist that balances out the sweetness beautifully.
– **Pairing with whipped cream or fresh berries**: Elevate your dessert with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream and seasonal berries.
– **Drizzling with chocolate**: For a richer treat, melt some chocolate and drizzle it atop your financiers.
Pistachio financiers, my friends, are sure to deliver a little piece of sweet joy! They are a lovely addition to any gathering or perfect for a cozy night in with your favorite book. I encourage you to try this recipe, and I’d love to hear how it turns out. Happy baking!