Short Description
Delicate almond-hazelnut mini cakes with a center of silky chocolate ganache and a roasted hazelnut on top—these refined bites offer nutty richness and smooth decadence in one elegant, bakery-worthy treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant and refined: Perfect for impressing guests at gatherings or enjoying a sophisticated treat.
• Nutty richness: The combination of almond flour and hazelnuts creates a wonderfully complex, nutty flavor.
• Chocolate ganache center: The smooth, silky ganache balances the slight crunch of the financier, while the roasted hazelnut topping adds the finishing touch of texture and flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Financiers:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup finely ground hazelnuts
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large egg whites
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Ganache & Topping:

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• Whole roasted hazelnuts, for garnish

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin pan or financier mold.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and cook until lightly browned. Let it cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, ground hazelnuts, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour.
4. Stir in the egg whites and vanilla extract. Add the cooled browned butter and mix until smooth. If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips.
5. Spoon the batter into the molds, filling them about ¾ full. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and firm to the touch. Allow the financiers to cool before unmolding.
6. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
7. Spoon the ganache into the center of each cooled financier and press a roasted hazelnut on top. Let the ganache set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12 mini financiers (depending on mold size).

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Bake time: 12–15 minutes
• Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Hazelnut flour alternative: If you prefer, you can substitute the ground hazelnuts with more almond flour or even ground pecans for a slightly different flavor.
• Different ganache: For a twist, use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate to create a creamier ganache.
• Add a flavor note: Try adding a splash of orange or hazelnut liqueur to the batter for a unique twist.

storage/reheating

• Store the cooled financiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes, or microwave briefly to soften.

FAQs

What is a financier?

A financier is a small almond-based cake, traditionally made with beurre noisette (brown butter). These mini cakes are known for their rich texture and buttery flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the financiers up to two days ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve. You can also prepare the ganache ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

Can I substitute the dark chocolate with something else?

Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or white chocolate for the ganache. Each will provide a different flavor profile but will still pair beautifully with the hazelnut and almond base.

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?

Using whole eggs will change the texture slightly. The result will be denser and less light than with just egg whites, but still delicious. For the best result, stick with egg whites if possible.

How do I know when the financiers are done?

The financiers are done when the edges turn golden and the tops are firm to the touch. You can also test with a toothpick to make sure it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

What can I use instead of almond flour?

You can use all-purpose flour if you need a gluten-free alternative or try substituting with oat flour for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I freeze these financiers?

Yes, you can freeze the financiers. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

Can I omit the chocolate chips?

Yes, the financiers will still be delicious without the chocolate chips. The hazelnut and almond flavors will stand out more in the absence of chocolate.

What can I use instead of roasted hazelnuts for topping?

If you prefer, you can top the financiers with other nuts such as almonds or pistachios. A bit of candied orange peel would also make a lovely garnish.

How do I keep the ganache from melting when served?

Let the ganache set at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes after spooning it into the financiers. If you’re storing them, keep them in a cool place to ensure the ganache doesn’t soften too much.

Conclusion

These Mini Hazelnut Financiers with Chocolate Ganache are the epitome of refined indulgence. With their tender, nutty crumb and rich ganache center, they offer a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet moment with coffee, these little cakes are sure to impress.

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