Mini amandines

Delicious Mini Amandines

Welcome to our kitchen, where today I will guide you step by step in preparing delicious mini amandines, a dessert that combines elegance and flavor. These fluffy cakes, with a moist base and decadent cream, will bring a smile to anyone who enjoys them. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, amandines are the perfect choice. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 30 ml water
- 30 ml oil
- 20 g cocoa
- 8 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, but recommended for a fluffier base)

For the syrup:
- 400 ml water
- 100 g sugar
- 2 packets of cappuccino with chocolate or caramel flavor
- 1 bottle of rum essence

For the cream:
- 3 egg yolks
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 300 g butter, at room temperature
- 3 tablespoons cocoa

A Brief History

Mini amandines have their origins in the pastry traditions of various cultures, often associated with refinement and culinary art. These cakes are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. Each bite of mini amandines is an explosion of flavors and textures, and the combination of chocolate, rum, and vanilla brings an unmistakable charm.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the bowl in which you will beat the egg whites is clean and dry. A glass bowl is ideal.

2. Beating the egg whites: Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and beat them until you achieve a firm foam. This is the secret to a fluffy base!

3. Incorporating the ingredients: In another bowl, combine the sugar, water, and beaten yolks with oil. Mix well, then add this mixture to the bowl with the beaten egg whites. Use a spatula and gently fold from the bottom up, so you don't lose the air in the egg whites.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour, cocoa, and baking powder (if you decided to use it) and incorporate them into the mixture, mixing gently. Avoid vigorous mixing to keep the base fluffy.

5. Baking: Pour the batter into a baking tray lined with parchment paper (approximately 34 cm long and 23 cm wide) and bake in a preheated oven at 175 degrees Celsius for 30-35 minutes. Five minutes before removing it, increase the temperature to 180 degrees for a golden crust.

6. Cooling: Once the base is baked, let it cool completely before cutting it in half.

Step 2: Preparing the syrup

1. Boiling the syrup: In a saucepan, add water, sugar, and the cappuccino packets. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Flavoring: After the syrup has cooled slightly, add the rum essence. This will add an extra flavor to the amandine.

Step 3: Preparing the cream

1. Beating the butter: In a bowl, mix the room temperature butter with the powdered sugar. Beat until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous consistency.

2. Adding the egg yolks: Incorporate the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

3. Cocoa: Add the cocoa and mix until you get a fluffy cream. If you prefer to avoid raw egg yolks, you can skip this step; the cream will still be delicious.

Step 4: Assembling

1. First layer: Place the first half of the base on a platter. Soak it well with the prepared syrup.

2. Adding the cream: Spread three-quarters of the cream over the base.

3. Second layer: Place the other half of the base on top, soak it again.

4. Glazing: Use the remaining cream to glaze the cake. You can save a few tablespoons of cream to create decorations or stripes on top.

5. Cooling: Cover the cake and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, but preferably overnight. This way, the flavors will intensify and the texture will become perfect.

Step 5: Serving

1. Cutting: Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares.

2. Garnishing: Garnish each piece with a bit of melted chocolate for an elegant and appetizing look.

Useful Tips

- Using ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This will help achieve a smooth and fluffy texture.
- Innovate with flavors: You can experiment with various flavors for the syrup, such as coffee or vanilla, depending on your preferences.
- Perfect serving: These mini amandines pair wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea. Also, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake will turn the dessert into an unforgettable experience.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of mini amandines contains approximately 250 calories, but it is good to know that, although they are delicious, it is important to consume them in moderation. The butter and eggs provide healthy fats and proteins, while cocoa contains antioxidants that can have health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use farm eggs? Yes, farm eggs can add a more intense flavor.
- What can I use instead of rum essence? You can use vanilla essence or even coffee liqueur for a different taste.
- Can the amandines be frozen? Yes, they can be frozen, but it is recommended to glaze them after thawing for a fresher appearance.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to embark on the adventure of preparing these delicious mini amandines. I assure you that the result will please everyone! Enjoy!