Mary Berry Florentines Recipe
Mary Berry's Florentines are a classic treat that blend the crunchy, nutty texture of almonds and walnuts with the sweet chewiness of glacé cherries and candied peel, all coated in a rich layer of chocolate. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a luxurious snack, these biscuits have a delicate balance of flavors that are sure to delight any palate. The recipe originates from Mary Berry's extensive collection of baking recipes, known for their precision and delicious results.
Ingredients for Mary Berry's Florentines
- Butter: 50g
- Demerara Sugar: 50g
- Golden Syrup: 50g
- Plain Flour: 50g
- Glacé Cherries (red or natural, finely chopped): 4
- Candied Peel (finely chopped): 50g
- Mixed Almonds and Walnuts (finely chopped): 50g
- Plain Chocolate (39 percent cocoa solids): 175g
Three baking trays are essential for preparing this recipe.
Preparation Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven and preparing baking trays with non-stick parchment.
- Melt the butter, sugar, and syrup in a pan, then mix in the flour, cherries, candied peel, and nuts.
- Spoon small amounts of the mixture onto the trays, allowing space for spreading.
- Bake until golden brown, then allow to cool before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Melt the chocolate, then spread it over the flat base of each Florentine, allowing it to set before storing.
Storing these biscuits in an airtight container ensures they retain their texture and flavors.
Nutritional Information
Mary Berry's Florentines are rich in both flavor and calories, thanks to the butter, sugar, and chocolate. They offer a mix of carbohydrates from the sugar and flour, fats from the butter and nuts, and a small amount of protein from the nuts. For specific nutritional values, it's best to calculate based on the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used.
FAQ about Mary Berry's Florentines
- Can I substitute the nuts? Yes, you can use other nuts like pecans or hazelnuts, but ensure they're finely chopped to maintain the texture.
- How long do Florentines last? Properly stored in an airtight container, they can last for up to a week.
- Can I use dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage? Absolutely, adjust according to your preference for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Mary Berry's recipes, like this one for Florentines, are renowned for their reliability and delicious results. This biscuit, with its combination of textures and flavors, covered in a smooth chocolate layer, is a testament to her baking expertise. Enjoy creating this delightful treat that promises to add a touch of luxury to your baking repertoire.
For a more detailed guide and additional tips, refer to Mary Berry's book or trusted recipe websites.