Ingredients
Method
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter, demerara sugar, and golden syrup over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved and everything is smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, chopped maraschino cherries, candied peel, and chopped nuts. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Pour the melted butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until it forms a sticky mixture.
- Using a spoon, place small dollops of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Flatten them gently with the back of the spoon to form round, even shapes.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the Florentines are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
- Once baked, remove the Florentines from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. While they cool, melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds.
- Once the Florentines have cooled slightly, dip the bottom of each one into the melted dark chocolate. Place them back on the parchment paper and allow the chocolate to set.
- Allow the Florentines to cool completely before enjoying. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to speed up the process.
Notes
Mary Berry Florentines as a Gift: How to Package Them
Mary Berry Florentines make a perfect homemade gift for any occasion, whether it’s Christmas, a birthday, or just a thoughtful treat for a friend. With their combination of crunchy nuts, chewy fruit, and a chocolatey finish, these biscuits are sure to impress. But the presentation is just as important as the taste! Here's how to package them beautifully:- Use Clear Cellophane Bags: For a simple, elegant look, place the Florentines in clear cellophane bags. You can stack them in a neat row and tie the top with a ribbon or twine. This allows the recipient to see the delicious cookies while keeping them fresh.
- Decorative Tin or Jar: If you want to elevate the gift, consider using a decorative tin or glass jar. You can layer the Florentines carefully inside, adding parchment paper or tissue paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together. Tins are especially great for keeping the biscuits fresh longer.
- Personalized Gift Box: For a more personalized touch, place the Florentines in a gift box. You can line the box with shredded paper or fabric for a soft, protective layer. You could even customize the box with a handwritten note or a small tag that includes the recipe or a special message.
- Add a Touch of Flair: To make the gift extra special, add a small sprig of rosemary, dried flowers, or a cinnamon stick tied to the ribbon. These little touches can make the gift look more thoughtful and unique.
- Include a Tag or Label: Don’t forget to add a small tag with a personal message, or a label describing the cookies inside. You could also include serving suggestions, such as pairing the Florentines with tea or coffee for an elegant treat.