Mary Berry’s Florentines are a delightful blend of crunchy, chewy, and richly flavored treats that have become a staple in British baking. Inspired by the traditional Florentine biscuits, these pastries are often considered a luxurious snack or dessert due to their glossy, intricate appearance and sophisticated flavor profile. Florentines are typically a combination of dried fruits, nuts, and a delicate coating of dark chocolate. Mary Berry, a legendary British baker and culinary expert, has perfected her version of this recipe, elevating it with her signature style of simplicity and precision.
In her version, the Florentines stand out with a perfect balance between the crispness of the biscuit base and the soft chewiness of the fruit and nut mixture. The use of dark chocolate on top not only enhances the flavor but also adds an elegant touch, making them perfect for special occasions like Christmas, afternoon tea, or as a luxurious homemade gift. The texture is key-crisp yet tender, with a pleasant contrast between the nuttiness and fruitiness, all encased in a glossy chocolate layer. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, Mary Berry’s Florentines offer a foolproof recipe that delivers impressive results with minimal effort.
Mary Berry’s Florentines Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Florentines, you’ll need a combination of both pantry staples and a few specialized ingredients. The great thing about this recipe is its flexibility-though the traditional version uses specific ingredients, you can also swap or adjust based on your preferences.
For The Biscuit Base
- Butter (unsalted) – 100g (to provide richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture)
- Golden syrup – 2 tablespoons (adds sweetness and helps the mixture hold together)
- Sugar (caster or granulated) – 75g (for sweetness and to aid in caramelizing)
- Flour – 50g (all-purpose flour works well to create a delicate, slightly crisp base)
- Baking powder – 1/2 teaspoon (this helps the Florentines rise a little and gives them their lightness)
For The Fruity And Nutty Filling
- Mixed dried fruit – 100g (you can use raisins, currants, sultanas, or chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a different flavor)
- Nuts – 75g (typically almonds, hazelnuts, or cashews, though you can use your favorite nut or a combination of them)
- Chopped glacé cherries – 50g (for a pop of color and an added layer of sweetness)
- Chopped candied peel – 2 tablespoons (for citrusy brightness)
- Desiccated coconut – 2 tablespoons (optional, for added texture and flavor)
For The Chocolate Coating
- Dark chocolate – 100g (the richness of dark chocolate balances the sweetness of the Florentine base beautifully)
Equipment Needed
While the ingredients list for Mary Berry’s Florentines may seem long, the equipment needed to make these treats is fairly basic. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking Tray – A flat baking tray lined with parchment paper to bake the Florentines evenly and prevent sticking.
- Saucepan – For melting the butter, sugar, and golden syrup together. A heavy-bottomed saucepan works best to prevent burning.
- Mixing Bowl – A medium-sized bowl to combine the dry ingredients like flour and baking powder.
- Spatula or Spoon – To stir the mixture, ensuring that everything is evenly combined and well-mixed.
- Measuring Spoons – For accuracy, especially with ingredients like golden syrup and baking powder.
- Chopping Board and Knife – For chopping the nuts, dried fruits, and glacé cherries.
- Heatproof Bowl – For melting the chocolate, typically done over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave.
- Piping Bag (optional) – For drizzling the chocolate over the Florentines in a decorative way (though this is optional).
- Cooling Rack – To allow the Florentines to cool down and set properly after they’ve been dipped in chocolate.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Florentines
Making Mary Berry’s Florentines is straightforward, yet the results are undeniably impressive. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to ensure your Florentines come out perfectly every time.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
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Prepare The Biscuit Base
- In a saucepan, melt together the butter, sugar, and golden syrup over a gentle heat. Stir occasionally to help everything melt evenly. Once melted, remove from the heat.
- Add the flour and baking powder to the melted mixture, stirring until well combined. The mixture should be slightly thick but still pourable.
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Add The Fruit And Nuts
- Mix in the chopped dried fruit, nuts, glacé cherries, and desiccated coconut (if using). Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is evenly distributed.
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Shape The Florentines
- Spoon small heaps of the mixture (about a tablespoon per Florentine) onto the lined baking tray. Use the back of the spoon to flatten them slightly, spreading the mixture into small, round shapes, leaving enough space between each one to allow for spreading during baking.
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Bake
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the Florentines are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
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Cool Down
- Remove the tray from the oven and allow the Florentines to cool completely on the tray. Once cooled, carefully lift them off the parchment paper.
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Coat In Chocolate
- While the Florentines cool, melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
- Once melted, dip the bottom of each Florentine into the chocolate, ensuring it’s coated well. Alternatively, you can drizzle the chocolate over the top for a decorative touch.
- Place the chocolate-coated Florentines on a cooling rack and let the chocolate set.
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Finishing Touch
- Allow the chocolate to harden fully before serving. If you want a more professional finish, place the Florentines in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to speed up the setting process.
Tips And Tricks
- Uniform Size: Make sure to space the Florentines evenly on the baking tray, as they will spread while baking. Using a tablespoon to scoop the mixture ensures consistency.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fruits and nuts. Walnuts, pistachios, and dried figs can add a unique twist. For a more tropical flavor, try adding dried mango or pineapple.
- Chocolate Choices: While dark chocolate is traditional, you can experiment with milk or white chocolate for a different flavor profile. A combination of both dark and white chocolate can create a visually stunning effect.
- Chill to Set: If you’re in a hurry, popping the Florentines in the fridge for a few minutes will set the chocolate quickly and prevent any smudging.
- Make-ahead: These Florentines keep well in an airtight container for several days, making them perfect for batch baking or gifting.
Mary Berry’s Florentines are a wonderful treat that combines simplicity with sophistication. The balance of rich chocolate, crunchy nuts, chewy fruit, and a hint of citrus from the peel creates a delightful snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just looking to treat yourself, these Florentines are sure to impress. With easy-to-follow steps, a few tips, and some creativity, you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste and enjoy a homemade delicacy that feels both luxurious and comforting.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Florentines
Mary Berry’s Florentines are already a delightful combination of crispy, chewy, and nutty flavors, wrapped up in a decadent layer of chocolate. But what if you want to play around with the classic recipe and put your personal spin on it? Luckily, Florentines are incredibly versatile, and with just a few ingredient swaps or tweaks, you can create variations that fit different tastes, dietary needs, or seasonal moods. Here are a few easy variations you can try:
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Fruit Medley Florentines
The traditional Florentine recipe calls for glacé cherries and dried fruit, but you can expand on this by using an assortment of dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, raisins, and blueberries. Try adding citrus zest like orange or lemon to enhance the fruitiness and bring a fresh, zesty note to the recipe. This variation is especially great during the winter holidays when dried fruits are at their peak.
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Nutty Delight Florentines
Nuts are the star ingredient of any Florentine, but instead of sticking to the usual almonds and hazelnuts, why not get creative with other options? Try using macadamia nuts, pistachios, or cashews to bring out different textures and flavors. For an extra twist, roast the nuts before adding them to the mix to deepen their flavor profile.
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Spicy Ginger Florentines
Ginger adds a warm, aromatic spice that works wonders with chocolate. You can grate fresh ginger or use ground ginger powder in the syrup mixture to create a spicy and aromatic base for the Florentines. Pair this with a darker chocolate coating, and you’ll have a uniquely spiced treat that balances sweetness with a kick.
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Coconut and Chocolate Florentines
For a tropical twist, add desiccated coconut to the mixture. The coconut’s rich, chewy texture complements the crispness of the Florentine, and it pairs perfectly with a milk or white chocolate coating. To take it a step further, you can toast the coconut before mixing it into the base for a subtle caramelized flavor.
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Vegan Florentines
For a plant-based version, replacing the butter and cream with coconut oil or plant-based butter works seamlessly. Use vegan dark chocolate for the topping and replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken). This variation will allow those on vegan diets or with dairy sensitivities to enjoy the indulgent treat without missing out.
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Mint-Chocolate Florentines
Add a dash of mint extract or finely chopped fresh mint to your Florentines for a refreshing twist. This is especially delightful if you are using dark chocolate for the coating, as the mint flavor cuts through the richness of the chocolate, making each bite feel refreshing and balanced. For an even more decadent touch, use mint-flavored chocolate instead of regular dark or milk chocolate.
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Caramel Crunch Florentines
If you love the flavor of caramel, adding a drizzle of caramel sauce over the chocolate layer before it hardens can elevate the taste. You can even incorporate caramelized sugar pieces into the mixture for an extra crunch. A little sea salt sprinkled on top would bring out the sweet-and-salty contrast beautifully.
With these variations, you can adapt Mary Berry’s Florentines to your liking, making them perfect for different occasions or to suit different palates. Whether you’re craving something fruity, nutty, or tropical, there’s always a fun twist to try!
Storing Leftovers
Florentines, with their combination of crunchy, chewy, and chocolate-coated elements, are a treat that can be savored for days after they’ve been made-provided they’re stored correctly. Storing leftovers is crucial to ensure they maintain their texture and flavor, so here’s everything you need to know:
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Room Temperature Storage
If you plan on consuming your Florentines within a few days, storing them at room temperature works just fine. Place them in an airtight container, layering them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. Make sure the container is kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. In this environment, the Florentines should stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days.
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Refrigeration for Longer Freshness
For a longer shelf life, refrigeration is the way to go. However, the cold air in the fridge may affect the texture slightly, making them a bit firmer, but they will still remain delicious. Store the Florentines in an airtight container, again with parchment paper between layers, and they’ll last for up to two weeks. If you’re worried about them sticking together, you can wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
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Freezing Florentines
If you have a large batch and want to extend their shelf life even further, freezing Florentines is an excellent option. Lay the Florentines out on a baking tray, ensuring they’re not touching, and place the tray in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the Florentines are completely frozen. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe airtight container or a zip-top bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and helps retain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
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Avoid Humidity and Moisture
One of the most important things to keep in mind when storing Florentines is moisture. Florentines contain sugar, which can easily attract humidity, leading to softening or even dissolving of the chocolate layer. Therefore, it’s essential to store them in a dry environment to preserve their crispness. If you’re storing them in the fridge or freezer, make sure the container is sealed tightly to avoid moisture buildup.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Florentines?
While Mary Berry’s Florentines are undeniably delicious on their own, they can also be paired with a variety of other foods and beverages to create a memorable snack or dessert experience. Here are a few ideas to elevate your Florentine enjoyment:
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A Hot Beverage for the Perfect Pairing
Florentines are perfect for pairing with a warm drink. A classic pairing would be with a cup of strong coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the chocolate, while the texture of the Florentines contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the beverage. If you prefer tea, a rich black tea like Earl Grey or a spiced chai also pairs wonderfully with Florentines, bringing out the warm, aromatic flavors in the nuts and fruit.
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Ice Cream or Sorbet
For an indulgent dessert, serve Florentines alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, rich chocolate gelato, or a refreshing fruit sorbet. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream pairs nicely with the crispy, crunchy Florentines, creating a contrast that will leave your taste buds satisfied. For a festive touch, you can drizzle a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce over the ice cream and top it with crushed Florentine pieces.
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Fresh Fruit
Florentines are rich and quite sweet, so they balance wonderfully with the fresh acidity of fruits. Try pairing them with a selection of juicy berries-raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries work especially well. The tangy-sweetness of the berries cuts through the richness of the Florentine, offering a light, refreshing contrast. You could even serve Florentines with a fruit salad or a citrus platter for an extra burst of freshness.
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Cheese
Although it might sound unusual, pairing Florentines with cheese can be a surprisingly delightful combination. A soft, creamy cheese like brie or goat cheese pairs wonderfully with the crispy, nutty Florentines. You could also try a sharp, aged cheddar to contrast the sweetness and add a savory element to the mix.
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Wine Pairing
If you’re serving Florentines as part of a more formal dessert course, you can match them with a glass of wine. A dessert wine like Sauternes or a rich port works beautifully, as the sweetness complements the chocolate and nuts. Alternatively, a slightly chilled Moscato d’Asti provides a fruity, effervescent contrast that’s refreshing alongside the richness of the Florentines.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Florentines are a true treat that never goes out of style. Their elegant combination of crisp, nutty, and fruity flavors, coated in luscious chocolate, makes them a perfect choice for any occasion. And with the endless variations you can try-from fruity and nutty combinations to vegan adaptations-Florentines become an incredibly versatile and customizable treat.
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy them long after baking, whether you keep them at room temperature for a few days or freeze them for months. And when it comes to pairing them with drinks or other foods, the possibilities are as varied as the Florentine variations themselves-from coffee or tea to cheese or ice cream, the options are endless.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Florentines Recipe?
Mary Berry’s Florentines require a combination of simple ingredients that create a delightful crunch and sweetness. The main ingredients include mixed dried fruit (like raisins, sultanas, and cherries), glacé cherries, flaked almonds, sugar, butter, and honey. Additionally, dark chocolate is used to coat the base of the Florentines, adding a rich and smooth texture that contrasts perfectly with the crisp fruit and nut mixture.
How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Florentines Less Sweet?
To reduce the sweetness in Mary Berry’s Florentines, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe or swap out the honey for a less sugary alternative like agave syrup. Using a lower-sugar dark chocolate for coating will also help balance the sweetness. Additionally, opt for a higher ratio of nuts to fruit, as this can reduce the overall sugary taste, giving the Florentines a more balanced flavor.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Florentines In Advance?
Yes, Mary Berry’s Florentines can be made in advance! Once the Florentines are fully set and cooled, they should be stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They will typically last for up to 5 days at room temperature. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can store them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving, as the chocolate coating can become hard and brittle when chilled.
