Friands are little almond cakes that are popular in New Zealand and Australia. They are similar to the French financiers, but are shaped differently and often contain flavorings or other ingredients such as fruit, chocolate, or nuts. Traditionally they are baked in little oval moulds, but can also be baked in mini muffin pans. These Raspberry Almond Friands are dainty and pretty, and make a great addition to a tea party, shower, or dessert buffet.

My husband thinks they are “ladies food,” and only eats them when no one is looking. I recently served these at a wedding shower for my grandson’s fiancé, and they were very popular with her family and friends.

30 Mini Cakes

3/4 cup butter, melted and cooled
3 eggs

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups almond flour, or almond meal

1 pint fresh raspberries

Sliced almonds to sprinkle on top

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray 30 mini muffin cups with non-stick spray containing flour (such as Baker's Joy).
2. Pour the melted butter into a mixer bowl. Add the eggs and mix at low speed until smooth.
3. Place a fine strainer over the egg mixture and measure the powdered sugar, flour, and salt into the strainer; shake through. Add the almond flour and mix until combined, scraping the sides once or twice.
4. Divide the batter among the greased mini muffin cups. Press a fresh raspberry into the center of each. Sprinkle each with a few sliced almonds.
5. Bake 15-20 minutes or until puffed, golden, and baked through. Let cool 5 minutes, then remove from the pans and transfer to a cooling rack. Dust with powdered sugar.
6. Store in an airtight container for several days, or freeze for longer storage.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 85 Calories from Fat 47
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 55% Protein 5% Carb. 40%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 5 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 34 mg
Sodium 73 mg
Total Carbohydrate 9 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 1 g

Vitamin A 4% Vitamin C 3% Calcium 0% Iron 1%