Lime and Almond Friands

Friands, from the French meaning "dainty" or "tasty", are quaint little cakes made from nutmeal, usually almond meal. They have a dense yet moist texture and are the perfect size to have with coffee. They are usually baked in oval-shaped friand moulds, but medium-sized muffin moulds are fine as a substitute. Friands will keep 3 days (if they last that long!) in an air-tight tin, or alternatively can be frozen. The uncooked mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days as well.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 12

Ingredients

• 6  egg whites
• 6  ounces butter
• 1  cup  almond meal
• 1 1⁄2 cups powdered sugar
• 1⁄2 cup  plain all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1  tablespoon  finely grated lime zest
• 1  tablespoon lime juice
• 30  whole  blanched almonds
•  extra powdered sugar
•  whipped cream (optional)

Directions

1. Grease and flour a non-stick 12 hole friand tin or 12 medium muffin holes.
2. Pre-heat oven to 375F (180C).
3. Melt butter gently in the microwave oven.
4. Place egg whites in a medium bowl and whisk lightly until just combined.
5. Add melted butter, almond meal, powdered sugar and flour, then lime zest and juice, and whisk again until just combined.
6. Divide mixture evenly among the prepared pans.
7. Top each friand with an almond.
8. Bake in the moderately hot oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until lightly browned- the friands should spring back when touched.
9. Remove from oven and let sit in the pan for around 5 minutes, before turning out onto wire racks to cool, right way up.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with a little extra sifted powdered sugar, and a dollop of cream.