Pineapple pastry

Delights for Carolers – Pineapple Friand

Welcome to the world of sweet treats! Today, I will introduce you to a special recipe, perfect for bringing smiles to the faces of carolers and filling your home with enticing aromas. It's called "Pineapple Friand" – a small cake similar to a muffin, but with a different texture, slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This recipe has won the hearts of many and is highly appreciated in various corners of the world.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 12

Necessary Ingredients

For the batter:
- 140 g unsalted butter (82% fat) + for greasing the molds
- 150 g almond flour
- 50 g all-purpose flour
- 175 g powdered sugar + for decoration
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 large egg whites
- 200 g canned pineapple chunks, well-drained

For the crumble:
- 50 g unsalted butter
- 50 g flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom

A Brief History
Although friands originated in the kitchens of Australia and New Zealand, their popularity quickly spread, transforming them into a beloved dessert for everyone. These little cakes are often associated with festive and convivial moments, making them ideal to serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Additionally, due to their versatility, you can experiment with various fruits, making them not only delicious but also customizable.

Step by Step – Making Pineapple Friand

1. Prepare the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a uniform texture and a more intense flavor.

2. Prepare the crumble: In a small bowl, add the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips to combine the ingredients until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Set the crumble aside.

3. Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, melt 140 g of butter and let it cool slightly. In another bowl, mix the almond flour, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon. This mix of dry ingredients will give a wonderful flavor to the friands.

4. Whip the egg whites: In a clean bowl, add the four egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to whip them until frothy and fluffy. You don't need to whip them to stiff peaks, just achieve an airy consistency.

5. Combine the ingredients: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the bowl with the egg whites, using a spatula. Gently fold to avoid deflating the egg whites. Then, add the well-drained pineapple chunks and melted butter. Carefully mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

6. Prepare the molds: Grease 12 muffin molds with butter to prevent sticking. Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared molds.

7. Add the crumble: Sprinkle the crumble mixture over each portion of batter, giving them a delightful crunchy texture.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the friands for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden and pass the toothpick test (inserted in the center, it should come out clean).

9. Cooling and decorating: Once the friands are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the molds for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. After they have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations
These pineapple friands are perfect to be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extravagant dessert or a chocolate glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

To customize the recipe, try replacing the pineapple with other seasonal fruits, such as apples, pears, or peaches, ensuring they are well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter. You can also experiment with various spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to give your friands an interesting twist.

Nutritional Benefits
These friands contain ingredients that not only provide a delicious taste but also offer nutritional benefits. Almond flour is one of the healthiest flour options, rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Additionally, pineapple adds a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of flour, but it's recommended to maintain the correct proportions and adjust the liquid amount if necessary.

2. How can I tell if the friands are done?
Use the toothpick test – if it comes out clean from the center of the friand, they are ready.

3. Can I store the friands?
Yes, these friands can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them to enjoy later.

Conclusion
Making pineapple friands is a pleasant and simple experience that will bring you satisfaction not only through taste but also through the cooking process. These little cakes are a perfect choice for holidays, gatherings with friends, or moments of personal indulgence. Experiment, adapt the recipe to your tastes, and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: Dough 140 g butter 82% fat + for greasing the molds 150 g almond flour 50 g white flour 175 g powdered sugar + for decoration 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 4 large egg whites pineapple cubes from well-drained compoteCrumble: 50 g butter 50 g flour 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon cardamom

 Tags:  pineapple tart friand pineapple cookies goodies for carolers