Description
Delight in these classic Florentine Cookies featuring a crisp almond and orange zest base, perfectly caramelized and optionally enhanced with a rich dark chocolate dip or drizzle. These thin, lacy cookies combine buttery sweetness with a hint of citrus, making them an elegant treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Coating (Optional)
- 4 oz dark or semisweet chocolate (for dipping or drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Batter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and maintain for 1 minute to caramelize. Remove from heat and whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth. Fold in sliced almonds, orange zest, and vanilla extract to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Form Cookies on Sheets: Using a spoon, drop small spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart as they will spread during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the cookies are lacy and crisp. Let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Add Chocolate (Optional): If desired, melt the dark or semisweet chocolate. Dip the cooled cookies partially into the chocolate or drizzle it decoratively over the tops. Allow the chocolate to set fully before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute almonds with an equal quantity of chopped dried fruit or seeds.
- Ensure cookies have sufficient space on the tray to spread out and develop their characteristic lacy texture.
- For easy chocolate melting, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat chocolate in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain crispness.
