Description

These Florentine Cookies are delicate, crisp, and buttery treats featuring toasted almonds and a hint of orange zest. Finished optionally with a dip or drizzle of rich dark chocolate, they provide a perfect balance of nutty sweetness and citrus brightness. Ideal for holiday gatherings or an elegant afternoon snack, these cookies bake quickly and impress with their signature lacy appearance and crunchy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Florentine Cookie 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
4 oz dark or semisweet chocolate (optional, for dipping or drizzling)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Prepare the Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil for about one minute, stirring continuously. Remove the pan from heat and mix in the all-purpose flour until the batter is smooth. Carefully fold in the sliced almonds, orange zest, and vanilla extract to evenly distribute the flavors and nuts throughout the batter.
Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon, drop small spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about 3 inches of space between each spoonful to allow spreading during baking.
Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn a golden brown color. Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Add Chocolate (Optional): If desired, melt the dark or semisweet chocolate. Dip the cooled cookies into the melted chocolate or drizzle it over the tops for an elegant finishing touch. Allow the chocolate to set fully before serving or storing.

Notes

Ensure that you leave enough space between drops of batter as these cookies spread significantly during baking.
Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and to help achieve an even bake and easy release.
For a more intense orange flavor, consider using fresh organic orange zest and avoid the white pith to prevent bitterness.
The chocolate coating is optional but adds a delicious contrast to the crunchy almond cookies.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for up to one week.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.