Pistachio Financiers are elegant little cakes that are surprisingly easy to make at home. These buttery, nutty treats are perfect for a special occasion or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee. The slight almond flavor, combined with the distinct taste of pistachios, makes for a truly unforgettable experience.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Pistachio Financiers recipe is more than just a simple bake; it’s an invitation to create something truly special. What makes these financiers so wonderful is their delicate crumb, rich buttery flavor, and the delightful crunch of pistachios. Unlike many other pastries, these are quick to prepare and bake, making them ideal for when you want a gourmet treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the use of browned butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates these little cakes to another level, creating a moist banana bread-like texture with a nutty, sophisticated twist.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful Pistachio Financiers:
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (60g) almond flour
- 1 cup (100g) powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup (50g) shelled pistachios, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue to cook it, swirling occasionally, until it turns a nutty brown color and has a toasted aroma. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Once browned, pour the butter into a heatproof bowl and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed for a good rise.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the slightly cooled browned butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix!
Step 4: Add Egg Whites and Almond Extract
In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg whites until they are slightly frothy. Add them to the butter mixture along with the almond extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Fold in Pistachios
Gently fold in the finely chopped pistachios into the batter. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout.
Step 6: Prepare the Pan and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a financier pan (or a muffin tin) very well with butter or cooking spray. Pour the batter into the molds, filling each about 3/4 full.
Step 7: Bake the Financiers
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Remove
Let the Pistachio Financiers cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These little cakes are fantastic on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of things to enhance the experience. A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch.
Consider serving these Pistachio Financiers with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy coolness complements the nutty, buttery flavor of the cakes perfectly. They are also wonderful alongside fresh berries or a fruit compote.
Pistachio Financiers are perfect for afternoon tea, brunch, or as a sophisticated dessert after a meal. Their elegant appearance also makes them a great addition to a dessert platter for parties or special occasions. You can even package them up nicely for homemade gifts!
Storage and Reheating
To store your Pistachio Financiers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating isn’t usually necessary as they are delicious at room temperature. However, if you prefer them warm, you can gently heat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes, or microwave them in short bursts, being careful not to dry them out.
Key Details
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 18 minutes
- Total time: 33 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 12 financiers
- Equipment:
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Financier pan or muffin tin
- Wire rack
Pistachio Financiers
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup 113g unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup 60g almond flour
- 1 cup 100g powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup 40g all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup 50g shelled pistachios, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue to cook it, swirling occasionally, until it turns a nutty brown color and has a toasted aroma. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Once browned, pour the butter into a heatproof bowl and let it cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed for a good rise.
- Add the slightly cooled browned butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Don't overmix!
- In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg whites until they are slightly frothy. Add them to the butter mixture along with the almond extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped pistachios into the batter. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a financier pan (or a muffin tin) very well with butter or cooking spray. Pour the batter into the molds, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the Pistachio Financiers cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully removing them to a wire rack to cool completely.
