A hand holds a square raspberry muffin dusted with powdered sugar above a muffin tin containing more raspberry muffins, all set against a dark background.

Delicate, nutty, and golden, financiers are petite almond cakes with crisp edges and a moist, tender crumb. Traditionally baked in rectangular molds resembling little gold bars (hence the name “financier”), these cakes have deep roots in 19th-century Paris, particularly with the bankers of the Bourse district.

Their popularity was partly due to their portability and the absence of egg yolks, which gave them a longer shelf life.

Today, they are a refined pâtisserie staple, often adorned with fruit or nuts for elegance. The addition of raspberries not only balances the buttery richness with a burst of acidity but also enhances their visual appeal.

What you will need:

IngredientMeasure
All Purpose Flour50g
Corn Flour20g
Almond Flour50g
Confectioner’s Sugar150g
Egg Whites120g
Unsalted Butter120g
Fresh Raspberry200g or more

Equipments:

  • Digital Scale
  • Flour sifter
  • Financier molds (traditional rectangular preferred, but mini muffin pans work)
  • Saucepan (for browning butter)
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Silicone spatula
  • Piping bag or ice cream scooper
  • Cooling rack

Time:

Preparation time – 20 minutes
Baking time – 12 to 15 minutes


Instructions:

Prepare Beurre Noisette:
  • Place unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Allow it to melt, foam, and turn golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma.
  • Remove from heat and pass through a fine mesh sieve to remove milk solids. (optional)
  • Cool to room temperature.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Sift together almond flour, confectioner’s sugar, all-purpose flour and corn flour.
  • Ensure no lumps remain.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Lightly whisk egg whites until just loosened (no peaks).
  • Make a well in middle of the dry mixture
  • Add the egg white and cooled beurre noisette.
Combine Everything:
  • Gradually fold everything till a glossy and slightly thick batter forms.
  • Rest batter in the refrigerator for 30 minutes (optional, for better texture).
Assembly:
  • Preheat oven to 190 °C (375 °F).
  • Grease and flour financier molds.
  • Fill molds about two-thirds full with batter.
  • Light coat the raspberries in flour and place one or two fresh raspberries gently on top of each portion.
  • Bake for 12–15 minutes until edges are crisp and centers spring back lightly.
  • Cool on a wire rack before unmolding.
Variations

Pistachio Financiers: Substitute almond flour with ground pistachios and top with candied cherries.

Chocolate Hazelnut Financiers: Replace part of flour with cocoa powder and use hazelnut meal.

Seasonal Fruit Financiers: Try blueberries, figs, or apricots in place of raspberries.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm dusted with powdered sugar.
Pair with raspberry coulis or a quenelle of crème fraîche.
For a plated dessert, add pistachio praline and micro herbs for contrast.

Nutrition Profile / 100g
NutrientAmount
Calories307 kcal
Protein4.8 g
Fat17.9 g
Carbohydrates32.3 g
Fiber1.7 g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as portion sizes.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Prepare the beurre noisette (brown butter) in advance and chill it; this reduces waiting time and stabilizes flavor.
  • Almond Flour Quality: Use finely ground blanched almonds for a silky crumb.
  • Butter Control: Do not over-brown the beurre noisette, or it will taste bitter.
  • Add some milk powder to the butter while browning to intensify the flavour.
  • You can mix the dry ingredients in a food processor for best results with least effort.
  • Storage: Best enjoyed the same day but can be stored airtight for 2–3 days. Refresh briefly in a low oven for crisp edges.

Troubleshooting Guide:

IssueLikely CauseSolution
Cakes are denseBatter overmixedMix just until incorporated
Raspberries sank to bottomBatter too loose / fruit too heavyChill batter before filling molds
Pale, soft edgesOven under-heated or pan not metalPreheat properly; use metal molds
Bitter tasteButter burned instead of brownedStop heating once nutty aroma develops

Don’t forget to share your results and tag @bake.hows on instagram


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