Buttery almond cakes with a delicate crumb, these Chocolate-Dipped Almond Financier Bars are baked into refined stick shapes and half-dipped in smooth dark chocolate. Finished with chopped almonds or edible gold leaf, they make for a luxurious dessert or elegant afternoon tea treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These financier bars are a perfect blend of texture and flavor—soft, moist almond cakes paired with a crisp chocolate coating. The recipe uses simple ingredients yet delivers a sophisticated result. They are easy to make, visually stunning, and can be customized with garnishes to suit any occasion, from casual gatherings to high-end dessert tables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 egg whites
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- Chopped toasted almonds (optional, for crunch)
- Edible gold leaf (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a rectangular bar mold or financier mold.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the egg whites until a smooth batter forms.
- Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared molds, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each cooled bar halfway into the melted chocolate, then place on parchment paper.
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with chopped almonds or gently press on pieces of edible gold leaf.
- Let the bars set at room temperature or chill in the fridge briefly until the chocolate hardens.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 bars.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 15–18 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 20 minutes
Total time: Around 50 minutes
Variations
- Citrus twist: Add lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright, aromatic note.
- Nut-free option: Use oat flour in place of almond flour for a similar texture.
- White chocolate dip: Substitute white chocolate for a sweeter finish.
- Flavor extracts: Try almond or orange extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.
- Decorative toppings: Replace gold leaf with dried flower petals, sprinkles, or crushed freeze-dried berries.
storage/reheating
Store the financier bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. If stored in the fridge, allow them to come to room temperature before serving. These bars do not require reheating and are best enjoyed at room temperature.
FAQs
What are financier bars?
Financiers are small French almond cakes known for their moist texture and buttery flavor, traditionally baked in rectangular molds.
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Egg whites are preferred for the light texture of financiers, but you can use two whole eggs for a denser result.
What mold should I use if I don’t have a financier mold?
You can use a mini loaf pan, rectangular silicone mold, or even a muffin tin as an alternative.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking?
Grease your molds well or use silicone molds to ensure easy removal.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.
What kind of chocolate should I use for dipping?
Dark chocolate chips or couverture chocolate work best for a smooth, glossy finish.
Is the gold leaf safe to eat?
Yes, edible gold leaf is food-grade and safe for consumption.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Are these suitable for gifting?
Absolutely. Once the chocolate has set, wrap them in parchment and ribbon for a beautiful homemade gift.
Can I skip the chocolate dip?
Yes, the bars are delicious on their own, though the chocolate adds a rich contrast.
Conclusion
Chocolate-Dipped Almond Financier Bars are a refined yet simple dessert that showcases classic French baking with a modern presentation. Their rich almond base, glossy chocolate coating, and elegant garnishes make them perfect for any occasion—from coffee breaks to formal celebrations. Enjoy the balance of buttery cake and silky chocolate in every bite.
Print
Chocolate-Dipped Almond Financier Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 crostini 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy toasted baguette slices piled high with creamy spinach and artichoke dip—rich, cheesy, and perfect for any gathering or appetizer spread.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange baguette slices on the sheet and brush with olive oil. Toast for 7–8 minutes until golden and crisp.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, spinach, and artichokes. Mix until creamy and well blended. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon generous portions of the dip mixture onto each toasted baguette slice.
- Return to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the tops are bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish with extra parmesan if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Make the dip ahead of time and assemble just before baking for easier entertaining.
- Use fresh spinach if preferred—just sauté and chop before mixing.
- Try topping with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crostini
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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