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Florentine Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 45 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 18 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

Delightfully crisp and nutty Florentine Cookies featuring a buttery almond base with a hint of orange zest, optionally coated with rich dark chocolate for an elegant finish. Perfect as a light, flavorful treat or sophisticated dessert accompaniment.


Ingredients

Florentine Base

  • 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

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Prepare the Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to boil gently for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour until the batter is smooth, then fold in the sliced almonds, freshly grated orange zest, and vanilla extract to incorporate all flavors evenly.
  3. Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon, drop small spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart to allow room for spreading during baking.
  4. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. After removing from the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Add Chocolate (Optional): Once the cookies are fully cooled, melt the dark or semisweet chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Either dip the bottoms of the cookies into the melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the tops. Place the cookies on parchment paper and allow the chocolate to set completely before serving or storing.

Notes

  • Ensure spacing between cookies to prevent them from merging as they spread during baking.
  • Use fresh orange zest for the best citrus flavor; avoid the white pith to prevent bitterness.
  • Almond slices can be lightly toasted beforehand for a deeper nutty flavor if desired.
  • Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Chocolate coating is optional but adds an elegant touch and richer flavor.