Mary Berry Florentines Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’ve ever wanted to bake something that’s both delicious and a little bit fancy, Mary Berry’s Florentines are the perfect treat to try. These little golden beauties are packed with a delightful mix of crispy nuts, juicy dried fruit, and a luxurious chocolate coating that’ll have you reaching for more.

What makes Mary Berry’s version so special is how easy it is to make, while still delivering that professional, melt-in-your-mouth taste. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for something fun to try, this recipe is a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with minimal effort. Trust us, once you’ve tried them, you’ll be hooked!.

Mary Berry Florentines Recipe

Ingredients Needed

When it comes to making Mary Berry’s Florentines, the combination of rich, indulgent ingredients is key to creating the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. This treat, traditionally a mix of nuts, candied fruit, and chocolate, delivers a refined yet comforting flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1. Butter: For the base of the Florentine mixture, butter plays an essential role in both flavor and texture. It brings richness and helps everything bind together. Unsalted butter is typically used to give you more control over the seasoning.

2. Golden Syrup: This is a key ingredient that lends Florentines their signature sweetness and slightly chewy texture. Golden syrup is thicker than regular honey, with a more subtle, mellow sweetness. It also helps the mixture set properly when it’s baked.

3. Sugar: Caster sugar (superfine sugar) is usually the best choice for Florentines as it dissolves smoothly into the mixture, ensuring a fine, even consistency.

4. Flaked Almonds: These are the star nut of the Florentine. The almonds contribute a toasted, nutty flavor and provide the signature crunch when baked. You can also experiment with other nuts like hazelnuts or pistachios, though almonds are traditional.

5. Candied Fruit: Chopped candied orange peel and cherries are commonly used in Florentines to add a burst of tangy sweetness and color. You can also use dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for variation.

6. Plain Flour: A small amount of plain flour helps to hold everything together. It gives the Florentines structure without overwhelming the delicate nutty and fruity elements.

7. Double Cream: Double cream, or heavy cream, is often used to make the syrupy mixture more luscious. When combined with the sugar and golden syrup, it creates a smooth, rich coating for the Florentines.

8. Dark Chocolate: To finish the Florentines, dark chocolate is melted and spread across the back of each biscuit. It adds a decadent, slightly bitter flavor that balances out the sweetness from the fruits and syrup.

9. A Pinch of Salt: A little bit of salt helps bring out the depth of flavors in the Florentines. It contrasts nicely with the sweetness and elevates the taste of the nuts and fruits.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Florentines requires only a few essential kitchen tools, all of which are quite standard. But having the right equipment ensures your Florentines will turn out perfectly crisp and beautifully formed.

1. Baking Sheet: A flat baking sheet is needed to spread the Florentine mixture evenly. You’ll want to line it with parchment paper to prevent the Florentines from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

2. Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is necessary to melt the butter, golden syrup, sugar, and cream. The key here is to ensure everything melts gently without burning, so a non-stick saucepan with a thick base works best.

3. Mixing Spoon or Spatula: A good wooden spoon or spatula is essential for stirring the mixture as it cooks. You’ll need something sturdy to mix the nuts, fruits, and syrup together.

4. Bowl: A bowl to mix your dry ingredients, particularly if you’re adding flour or mixing in extra nuts or fruits before combining them with the syrup.

5. Cooling Rack: After baking the Florentines, placing them on a cooling rack will ensure that they cool evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy. The rack will also help to cool the Florentines faster.

6. Melting Bowl: For the dark chocolate, you’ll need a separate heatproof bowl for melting the chocolate. You can do this over a double boiler or in the microwave, but a glass or ceramic bowl is ideal.

7. Knife or Offset Spatula: You’ll use this to spread the melted chocolate evenly on the back of the Florentines once they’re out of the oven. An offset spatula makes it easier to control the spread of chocolate.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Florentines

Making Florentines is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the nuts, fruits, and chocolate come together in perfect harmony. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these delicious, elegant biscuits:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

   Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan ovens. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the Florentines from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.

2. Melt the Syrup Mixture

   In a saucepan, combine the butter, golden syrup, caster sugar, and double cream. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to help everything melt together. Once it has fully melted and combined, allow it to come to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

   While your syrup mixture is simmering, in a bowl, combine the chopped candied fruit, flaked almonds, and plain flour. Stir them well to coat the fruit and nuts with the flour, which helps them stay evenly distributed in the syrup mixture.

4. Combine the Mixtures

   Once the syrup mixture is ready, pour it over the dry ingredients. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the nuts and fruit are evenly coated in the syrupy base.

5. Shape and Bake

   Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them well apart as they will spread out as they bake. Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten each pile of mixture into a round, flat shape. Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crisp around the edges.

6. Cool and Prepare the Chocolate

   Once your Florentines are baked, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. While the Florentines are cooling, melt your dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave until smooth.

7. Coat with Chocolate

   Once the Florentines are completely cool, flip them over and spread a thin layer of melted chocolate on the back of each one. Let the chocolate set for about 30 minutes at room temperature or chill them in the fridge for a quicker result.

Expert Tips

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Florentines tend to spread out quite a bit as they bake, so be sure to leave enough space between each spoonful of the mixture. This prevents them from merging into one big mess.

2. Use High-Quality Chocolate: The chocolate used in Florentines plays a significant role in the overall flavor. Opt for a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to give a rich contrast to the sweetness of the Florentine base.

3. Add Your Own Twist: While the traditional combination is flaked almonds and candied fruits, feel free to experiment with other nuts, such as hazelnuts, pistachios, or even walnuts. You could also use dried fruits like cranberries or raisins if you prefer a more tart flavor.

4. Chill to Set Quickly: If you’re short on time, place your chocolate-coated Florentines in the fridge to speed up the setting process. This will ensure that the chocolate hardens properly without making the Florentines too soft or sticky.

5. Test for Crispness: Florentines should have a satisfying crispness but still have a slight chewiness from the nuts and fruits. If you want them to be extra crispy, you can bake them a little longer, but be careful not to burn them.

Mary Berry’s Florentines are a delightful and refined treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a special afternoon tea or looking to satisfy a sweet craving. Their balance of crunchy almonds, tangy candied fruit, and smooth dark chocolate makes them a true indulgence.

With only a handful of ingredients and a bit of attention to detail, you can create these delicate, flavorful biscuits at home. By following the steps and expert tips, you’ll be able to master this classic recipe and enjoy the perfect Florentines every time. Happy baking!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Florentines

Mary Berry’s Florentines are a delightful treat, traditionally consisting of a crispy, chewy mixture of nuts, fruit, and sugar, all bound together with melted chocolate. While her classic version is absolutely delicious, there are several easy recipe variations that can add your personal twist to this delectable biscuit.

1. Nut Variations

Florentines typically call for a combination of almonds, hazelnuts, and sometimes pistachios, but you can easily swap these out based on what you have available or your taste preferences. For example, try using walnuts for a deeper, earthy flavor, or cashews for a slightly sweeter, creamier texture. You could also experiment with macadamia nuts for a rich, buttery bite or pine nuts for something more subtle.

2. Fruit Additions

The inclusion of dried fruit in Florentines adds an essential touch of sweetness and tang. While dried cherries, apricots, or cranberries are typical choices, you could introduce dried blueberries for a burst of tartness or raisins for a more traditional flavor. For an exotic twist, consider using dried mango or papaya-they bring a tropical vibe to the otherwise European-style treat.

3. Chocolate Variations

The beauty of Florentines lies in the smooth, rich layer of chocolate that coats the crunchy mixture. While dark chocolate is the classic choice, switching to milk chocolate can provide a sweeter flavor profile, and white chocolate brings a more delicate, creamy richness. For something a little more indulgent, try mixing chocolate with sea salt, or using chocolate with a hint of orange or raspberry to elevate the flavor profile with a fruity undertone.

4. Spices And Zests

To enhance the flavor further, you can infuse the Florentine mixture with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger. These spices will provide a warm, cozy note, especially if you’re making these treats during the colder months. Alternatively, a bit of orange zest or lemon zest can add a refreshing citrusy twist that complements the richness of the chocolate and the nuttiness of the Florentines.

5. Vegan Or Gluten-Free Options

For those with dietary restrictions, Florentines are easily adaptable. To make them vegan, simply substitute butter for dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use dark chocolate that is free from dairy. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use gluten-free oats in the base, as the oats provide the crispy texture needed without wheat flour. Adding coconut flakes instead of some of the oats can create an interesting tropical twist that is also gluten-free.

By making small adjustments in these areas, you can create a unique variation of Mary Berry’s Florentines that perfectly suits your tastes and dietary needs.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Florentines are undeniably delicious, but if you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence in many households!), it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Here’s how you can keep them at their best.

1. Cool And Set Before Storing

Before storing, make sure the Florentines have completely cooled and the chocolate has set. If you attempt to store them while they are still warm, the chocolate may melt or stick together, making them more difficult to separate when you want to enjoy them later. It’s best to leave them at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or longer if needed, to ensure everything is solidified.

2. Use An Airtight Container

To preserve the crispiness of your Florentines and prevent them from becoming soggy or stale, store them in an airtight container. A metal tin or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works best. The key here is to seal them off from the air to avoid moisture that could affect their texture.

3. Layer With Parchment Paper

If you’ve made a large batch and need to stack the Florentines in the storage container, place parchment paper between layers. This will prevent the sticky chocolate from melting and adhering to the others, keeping each one intact and easier to enjoy without breaking.

4. Store In A Cool, Dry Place

Florentines are best stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which could cause the chocolate to soften and lose its texture. Avoid refrigerating them unless absolutely necessary, as the cold can cause the chocolate to develop an unattractive sheen or texture changes. If your home is particularly warm, refrigerating them for a short period of time might be necessary, but remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

5. Shelf Life

When stored properly, Florentines will stay fresh for up to a week. After that, the nuts and fruit may begin to lose their crunch, and the chocolate could soften. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them (see the next section for tips on freezing).

6. Freezing Florentines

For longer storage, Florentines can be frozen. To do so, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.

Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure they’re sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. Florentines can be kept in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. Freezing doesn’t affect the taste but may slightly alter the texture of the chocolate.

What Goes Well With Florentines

Florentines are an indulgent treat on their own, but pairing them with the right drinks and accompaniments can elevate the experience to another level. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, here are some ideas on what pairs wonderfully with Florentines.

1. Tea Or Coffee

Florentines are a natural fit for a warm cup of tea or coffee. Their crisp, nutty texture and rich chocolate coating contrast beautifully with the smooth, often slightly bitter nature of coffee or tea. Try pairing them with a cup of English breakfast tea for a classic combination, or go for something more delicate like earl grey or green tea. If you prefer coffee, a latte or cappuccino works wonderfully, providing a creamy balance to the sweetness of the Florentines.

2. Dessert Wines

For an elegant touch, pair your Florentines with a dessert wine such as Port, Muscat, or a late harvest Riesling. The sweet and rich flavors of these wines complement the chocolate and fruit in the Florentines, while their slightly higher alcohol content offers a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the treat.

3. Ice Cream Or Sorbet

Florentines also pair well with ice cream or sorbet. The coolness and creaminess of a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream offer a delicious contrast to the crunchy texture of the Florentines. For a fruitier pairing, try a lemon sorbet or raspberry sorbet-the tanginess of the fruit complements the sweetness of the treat.

4. Cheese

For a more unusual pairing, consider serving Florentines with a selection of cheese. A mild, creamy cheese like brie or cream cheese works well, providing a rich, smooth backdrop to the Florentine’s crunch and sweetness. Alternatively, a slightly stronger, more pungent cheese like blue cheese can create a fascinating contrast that enhances both the cheese and the Florentine.

5. Fresh Fruit

Florentines are also delicious when served with fresh fruit, especially berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. The freshness and acidity of the berries provide a light contrast to the heavy richness of the Florentine, balancing the sweetness and adding a refreshing element to your snack.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Florentines are a wonderful treat that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. With endless variations, you can experiment with different nuts, fruits, and chocolate to create your own perfect Florentine.

Storing them properly ensures that they maintain their crunch and flavor, whether you choose to keep them for a few days or freeze them for later enjoyment. And when it comes to pairing, the possibilities are just as varied, with options ranging from a simple cup of tea to more indulgent pairings like dessert wines and ice cream. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet moment, Florentines are a versatile and delicious choice that can be savored in many ways.

FAQs

What Are Mary Berry’s Florentines?

Mary Berry’s Florentines are a delicious treat made from a mix of candied peel, dried fruit, and nuts, all coated in dark chocolate. They are a type of biscuit traditionally made around Christmas, but can be enjoyed year-round.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Chocolate For Mary Berry’s Florentines?

Yes, while Mary Berry’s recipe uses dark chocolate, you can swap it for milk chocolate or even white chocolate, depending on your preference. Keep in mind that the taste will change, as dark chocolate provides a more bittersweet contrast to the sweetness of the other ingredients.

What Nuts Can I Use In Mary Berry’s Florentines?

Mary Berry’s Florentines typically use almonds, but you can experiment with other nuts like pistachios, hazelnuts, or walnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely so they hold together when baked.

How Long Do Mary Berry’s Florentines Take To Bake?

Mary Berry’s Florentines bake for about 10-12 minutes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). You should keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-brown as they can burn quickly due to the sugar content.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Florentines Ahead Of Time?

Yes!

Florentines can be made a few days in advance. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture. They can also be frozen for up to a month.

How Do I Ensure My Florentines Don’t Stick To The Baking Tray?

To prevent your Florentines from sticking, line your baking tray with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat. You can also lightly grease the paper or mat with butter for extra security.

Can I Use Other Dried Fruits In Place Of The Ones In The Recipe?

Absolutely!

While the recipe may call for specific dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, you can mix in other fruits like dried apricots, cherries, or figs, depending on your taste preferences.

How Thick Should The Florentines Be When I Spoon The Mixture Onto The Tray?

The Florentine mixture should be spooned out in small, flat mounds. Aim for about 2-3 cm in diameter, and try to keep the mixture even. As they bake, they will spread and form a thin, crisp texture.

What Can I Do If My Florentines Come Out Too Soft?

If your Florentines turn out too soft, it could be because they were underbaked. You can try returning them to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, let them cool completely, as they can harden up as they set.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Florentines Gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make gluten-free Florentines by ensuring that all the ingredients used are gluten-free, including the dried fruit and nuts. Be cautious of cross-contamination if you’re cooking for someone with a gluten sensitivity.