Mini Florentines

These Mini Florentines are a bite-sized version of the classic chocolate-dipped treat — crunchy, chewy, and perfectly sweet. With golden cornflakes, toasted almonds, sultanas, and glace cherries all held together by creamy condensed milk and finished with a rich layer of dark chocolate, they’re an irresistible indulgence for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, easy, and delivers a beautifully nostalgic flavor in every bite. The combination of chewy fruit, crisp almonds, and smooth chocolate makes these mini florentines an elegant yet effortless treat. They look impressive on dessert platters or as homemade gifts but take just minutes to prepare. Plus, the small size means I can enjoy one (or two!) without the guilt.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1/3 cup sultanas
1/4 cup red glace cherries, quartered
1/3 cup flaked almonds, toasted
1 cup cornflakes
1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
80 g dark chocolate, chopped

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced) and line two large baking trays with baking paper.

2. In a large bowl, I combine the sultanas, glace cherries, toasted almonds, and cornflakes.

3. I add the sweetened condensed milk and stir until everything is well coated.

4. Using two teaspoons, I drop small mounds of the mixture (about 2 teaspoons each) onto the prepared trays, leaving about 6 cm between each one to allow for spreading.

5. I bake one tray at a time for around 5 minutes, or until the florentines are lightly golden. Then I remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the trays.

6. Once cooled, I melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof, microwave-safe bowl on medium (50%) power for about 1 minute, stirring halfway through until smooth and glossy.

7. Using a palette knife or spatula, I spread the melted chocolate over the flat base of each florentine.

8. I place them chocolate-side up on a wire rack and leave them to set completely before serving or storing.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 mini florentines. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake, so I can have them ready in just 25 minutes. They’re ideal for a sweet snack, a dessert platter, or to serve with coffee or tea.

Variations

Sometimes I like to switch things up by adding chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a tangy twist. For extra crunch, I add finely chopped pistachios or hazelnuts. When I want a sweeter version, I drizzle a bit of white chocolate on top for a marbled effect. I’ve also made a festive batch using green and red glace cherries for the holidays — they look beautiful and taste amazing.

Storage/Reheating

I store my florentines in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to one week. If the weather is warm, I keep them in the fridge to stop the chocolate from melting. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months — I just separate layers with baking paper to prevent sticking and thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use milk or white chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, I can use any chocolate I like — milk or white chocolate will make them sweeter and creamier.

How do I stop the florentines from spreading too much?

I make sure not to overload each spoonful with condensed milk and leave enough space between them on the tray.

Can I make these nut-free?

Yes, I simply omit the almonds and add more cornflakes or seeds instead.

What if I don’t have cornflakes?

I can use crushed bran flakes or puffed rice cereal as an alternative.

Can I toast the almonds myself?

Yes, I toast them in a dry frying pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden and fragrant.

How do I melt chocolate without a microwave?

I place the bowl of chocolate over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) and stir until melted.

Can I make them ahead?

Yes, they keep perfectly for several days, so I often make them in advance for entertaining.

Why are my florentines chewy instead of crisp?

They may need an extra minute in the oven — I make sure they’re golden before removing them.

Can I add coconut?

Yes, a tablespoon of desiccated coconut adds extra texture and flavor.

Can I make them larger?

Absolutely, I just use a tablespoon instead of a teaspoon for bigger florentines, adjusting the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

These Mini Florentines are the perfect little treat — simple to make, elegant to serve, and full of crunchy, chewy, chocolatey goodness. I love how they combine rich flavors and textures into one bite-sized delight. Whether for a special occasion, afternoon tea, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these golden, chocolate-dipped florentines always hit the spot.