Chocolate Chunk Financiers Recipe

Imagine a bite-sized French pastry with irresistibly crisp golden edges, a plush, moist almond center, and the decadent surprise of melting dark chocolate in every nibble—that’s exactly what you get with Chocolate Chunk Financiers. These classic treats blend the elegance of patisserie with pure, chocolatey comfort, making them perfect for a casual afternoon snack or a show-stopping finale for your next dinner party. Baking these at home feels like sharing a secret from a European bakery, and I’m so excited for you to experience the magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chocolate Chunk Financiers lies in their simple, classic ingredients—each one is essential and plays a starring role. From the nutty almond flour to the rich dark chocolate, every element builds flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color financiers are famous for.

• Unsalted butter (50g): Browning the butter creates a deep, nutty aroma that defines these luxurious little cakes.
• Almond flour (50g): This provides a tender crumb and gives financiers their signature delicate flavor.
• Powdered sugar (50g): Adds sweetness and helps achieve the fine, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Egg whites from 2 large eggs: They keep the crumb luxuriously light while binding everything together.
• All-purpose flour (25g): Just enough to give the cakes structure without weighing them down.
• Baking powder (1/4 tsp): Offers a gentle lift for perfectly risen cakes.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate and almond notes.
• Dark chocolate chunks (50g): Choose a quality chocolate—it melts beautifully and delivers pockets of intense flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Chunk Financiers

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch closely as the butter melts, foams up, and transforms into a luscious golden brown with a heavenly nutty scent. This step is where that magical depth of flavor begins, so don’t rush it—and let it cool slightly once browned.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your almond flour, powdered sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the pinch of salt. Whisking dry ingredients first ensures an even distribution, so every financier is as beautiful and tasty as the next.

Step 3: Add the Egg Whites

Pour in your egg whites right into the dry mixture (no need to beat them first!). Stir until the mixture is smooth and ribbony—this low-maintenance approach makes Chocolate Chunk Financiers so easy, yet the result is so refined.

Step 4: Incorporate the Browned Butter

Now, gently mix in your cooled brown butter. The batter will become glossy and fragrant, hinting at what’s to come. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma—it’s pure joy!

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chunks

Reserve a few chocolate chunks for garnish, then fold the rest gently into the batter. You want those pieces scattered throughout for melty chocolate in every bite of your Chocolate Chunk Financiers.

Step 6: Fill the Molds and Top with Chocolate

Spoon the batter into greased mini loaf or financier molds, filling them about three-quarters full. Nestle a few extra chocolate chunks on top of each—these will create gooey, irresistible pools on the finished cakes.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide your tray into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye out for golden, crisp edges and a centered toothpick that comes out clean. The sweet aroma is the best kitchen perfume!

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the financiers rest in the pan for about five minutes—just enough to set them—then gently transfer to a wire rack. They’ll finish cooling and get that perfect crispness around the edge while staying tender inside.

How to Serve Chocolate Chunk Financiers

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar is always classic, but don’t stop there! For extra flair, try a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds or even a light drizzle of melted chocolate. These touches make your Chocolate Chunk Financiers look delightfully bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

Serve these beauties alongside a robust espresso, a frothy cappuccino, or even a delicate cup of tea. If you’re feeling fancy, pair with dollops of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream—this contrast of warm cake and cold cream is irresistible.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your Chocolate Chunk Financiers by stacking them on a pretty cake stand or arranging them in rustic baskets lined with parchment for brunch. For parties, slip them into little parchment sleeves or tie with bakery twine—they make adorable and delicious gifts!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the financiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll keep their tender texture and wonderful flavor without drying out.

Freezing

Chocolate Chunk Financiers freeze surprisingly well. Simply let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll taste as fresh as the day you made them.

Reheating

For that just-baked magic, reheat financiers in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes. This revives the crisp edges and warms the chocolate chunks to a melty, irresistible state.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any chocolate you love. Milk chocolate will make the financiers sweeter and creamier, while white chocolate adds a lovely vanilla note and caramelizes slightly in the oven.

Can I make Chocolate Chunk Financiers gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The almond flour already gives these cakes a tender, gluten-free friendly structure.

Do I need a special financier pan?

Not at all! Mini loaf pans, mini muffin tins, or even small tartlet molds will work. The shape might change a little, but the taste and texture will still be wonderful.

How do I prevent the financiers from sticking to the pan?

Be sure to generously grease your molds with butter or nonstick spray (or line them with parchment if possible). Letting them cool briefly before unmolding also helps them release beautifully.

Why is browning the butter important?

Browning the butter develops complex, nutty flavors that set Chocolate Chunk Financiers apart from ordinary cakes. It’s the little chef’s trick that gives them that signature taste and aroma!

Final Thoughts

If you love rich almond treats and pockets of melty chocolate, these Chocolate Chunk Financiers will win your heart. Whether you’re baking for yourself or to impress friends and family, this recipe transforms a handful of familiar ingredients into pure pastry magic. Don’t be surprised if they vanish faster than you expect—there’s truly nothing like the experience of a warm, freshly baked financier straight from your own oven!

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