Mini Strawberry Friands: Deliciously Moist Treats for Every Occasion

Mini Strawberry Friands are a delightful treat that perfectly encapsulate the essence of indulgence in a bite-sized form. Originating from France, these small almond cakes are traditionally made with egg whites and are known for their moist texture and rich flavor. The addition of fresh strawberries not only enhances their sweetness but also adds a vibrant pop of color, making them a favorite for both casual gatherings and elegant occasions.

What I love most about Mini Strawberry Friands is their versatility; they can be enjoyed as a breakfast pastry, an afternoon snack, or a dessert. The combination of the nutty almond base and the juicy strawberries creates a harmonious balance that keeps people coming back for more. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, which means you can whip up a batch in no time to impress your friends and family. Join me as we explore this delightful recipe that is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (150g) almond meal
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• Extra strawberries for garnish (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step to ensure that your friands bake evenly and rise beautifully.
2. Prepare your mini muffin tin by greasing it with butter or using non-stick cooking spray. You can also line the tin with mini paper liners for easier removal later.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond meal, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and ensures a smooth batter.
4. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are frothy but not stiff. You don’t need to whip them to peaks; just enough to break them up and incorporate some air.
5. Pour the frothy egg whites into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine the ingredients until just incorporated. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
6. Once the batter is mixed, gently fold in the diced strawberries. This adds a lovely burst of flavor and color to your friands. Make sure the strawberries are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Cooking Process

7. Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, fill each cavity of the prepared mini muffin tin with the batter. Fill them about 3/4 full to allow room for rising. If you have extra batter, you can bake it in a separate batch or use a larger muffin tin.
8. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary based on your oven and the size of your muffin tin.
9. Once baked, remove the friands from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set slightly and makes them easier to remove.
10. Carefully transfer the friands to a wire rack to cool completely. If you used paper liners, you can leave them in the liners for easier serving.

Assembling and Serving

11. Once the friands are completely cool, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch. This step is optional but adds a nice sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
12. If you’d like, you can also slice some fresh strawberries to place on top of each friand for an extra pop of color and flavor. This is especially lovely if you’re serving them for a special occasion or brunch.
13. Arrange the friands on a serving platter or individual plates. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a delightful treat with your afternoon tea or coffee.
14. These mini strawberry friands can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips and Variations

15. If you don’t have almond meal, you can make your own by grinding blanched almonds in a food processor until fine. Just be careful not to over-process, or you’ll end up with almond butter!
16. Feel free to experiment with different fruits! Blueberries, rasp

Conclusion:

In summary, these Mini Strawberry Friands are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and texture. The combination of almond flour and fresh strawberries creates a moist, tender bite that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering, enjoying them with a cup of tea, or surprising your loved ones with a homemade gift, these little gems are sure to impress. For a fun twist, consider experimenting with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries, or even adding a hint of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus kick. You can also drizzle a light glaze over the top or dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Mini Strawberry Friands recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how they turn out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media so we can celebrate your baking success together. Happy baking!

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