30-Minute Classic French Hazelnut Financiers
These elegant French financiers feature the rich, nutty flavor of hazelnut powder combined with aromatic browned butter. The small, rectangular cakes have a tender, moist crumb and golden exterior, traditionally baked in special financier molds. Perfect for afternoon tea, dessert, or as an sophisticated treat with coffee. The browned butter adds depth while hazelnut halves provide a beautiful garnish and extra crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup all-purpose flouralmond flour1:1tags:gluten-freegluten-free
note:creates denser texture
- 1 ⅓ cups confectioners' sugargranulated sugar3/4:1note:affects textureless smooth
conf:3
- 1 ⅓ cups hazelnut powderalmond flour1:1note:changes flavor profiletree_nuts-free
conf:4
- 5 egg whites
- ½ cup hazelnuts, halved
Instructions
- 1
Lightly brown the butter, then let it cool down
- 2
Preheat oven to 350°F
- 3
Mix the cornstarch, flour, sugar, and hazelnut powder in a large bowl, whisking for 30 seconds
- 4
Add the egg whites to the dry ingredients, and stir until smooth
- 5
Add the melted butter, and stir until fully incorporated
- 6
Fill the financier mold with batter, and decorate each pastry with hazelnut halves
- 7
Bake the financiers for 12 to 15 minutes
- 8
Let the financiers cool down for 10 minutes before removing them from the mold
Tips
Brown the butter until it smells nutty and turns golden amber, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Use room temperature egg whites for easier mixing and smoother batter consistency.
Tap the filled molds gently to remove air bubbles before baking for even texture.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week
Can be made 1 day ahead and stored covered at room temperature
Serve at room temperature with coffee, tea, or as an elegant dessert
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix the batter to avoid tough financiers
Avoid overbrowning the butter to prevent bitter flavor
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make these without financier molds?
Yes, use mini muffin tins or small rectangular molds, adjusting baking time as needed for different sizes.
How do I know when the butter is properly browned?
The butter should smell nutty and turn golden amber with brown bits at the bottom, taking about 3-5 minutes.
Can I freeze these financiers?
Yes, wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.