I. What is Financier?
Financier is a small French almond cake that is light, moist, and rich in flavor. It is typically baked in small rectangular molds, resembling a bar of gold, which is where the pastry gets its name. Financier is made with ground almonds, brown butter, egg whites, sugar, and flour, giving it a unique texture and taste.
II. History of Financier
The history of the financier dates back to the 19th century in France. Legend has it that the pastry was created by a pastry chef in the financial district of Paris, hence the name “financier.” The chef wanted to create a dessert that was easy to eat on the go and resembled a gold bar, which was a symbol of wealth and prosperity at the time.
Over the years, the financier has become a popular pastry in French bakeries and cafes, loved for its delicate almond flavor and moist texture. It has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, becoming a staple in many pastry shops and restaurants.
III. Ingredients used in Financier
The key ingredients in a traditional financier recipe include ground almonds, brown butter, egg whites, sugar, and flour. The ground almonds give the pastry a nutty flavor and moist texture, while the brown butter adds a rich and caramelized taste. The egg whites help to lighten the batter, creating a fluffy and airy texture, and the sugar adds sweetness to balance out the flavors. Flour is used to bind the ingredients together and give the pastry structure.
Some variations of the financier may include additional ingredients such as vanilla extract, lemon zest, or chocolate chips to enhance the flavor profile. However, the classic financier recipe remains simple and delicious, highlighting the natural flavors of the almonds and brown butter.
IV. Variations of Financier
While the traditional financier recipe is made with ground almonds, there are many variations of this pastry that incorporate different flavors and ingredients. Some popular variations include:
– Chocolate Financier: This version of the financier includes cocoa powder or melted chocolate in the batter, giving it a rich and decadent chocolate flavor.
– Fruit Financier: Fresh or dried fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or apricots can be added to the batter to add a burst of sweetness and tanginess.
– Pistachio Financier: Ground pistachios can be used in place of almonds to create a green-hued pastry with a distinct pistachio flavor.
– Matcha Financier: Matcha powder can be added to the batter to create a green tea-flavored financier with a hint of bitterness and earthiness.
These variations allow pastry chefs to get creative with the classic financier recipe and experiment with different flavors and textures.
V. Serving suggestions for Financier
Financier is a versatile pastry that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It is often served as a dessert or snack alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Financier can also be paired with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
For a special occasion, financiers can be served as part of a dessert platter with other pastries and sweets. They can also be dressed up with a drizzle of chocolate ganache, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of fruit compote for added flavor and presentation.
VI. Popular places to find Financier
Financier can be found in many French bakeries, patisseries, and cafes around the world. In France, you can find financiers in traditional bakeries and pastry shops, where they are often displayed alongside other classic French pastries such as croissants, macarons, and eclairs.
In the United States, financiers can be found in upscale bakeries and gourmet food stores in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Many pastry chefs and bakers have put their own spin on the classic financier recipe, creating unique and innovative variations that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Overall, financier is a beloved pastry that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among pastry enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Its delicate almond flavor, moist texture, and rich history make it a timeless classic that is sure to delight anyone who tries it.