Florentine Lace Cookies 🍪🌰
Delicate, crispy, and irresistibly buttery, Florentine lace cookies are thin, caramelized wafers studded with nuts and often dipped in chocolate. Originating from Florence, Italy, these elegant cookies are perfect for holiday gifts, tea time, or a fancy dessert accompaniment.
Ingredients
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½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
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¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
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2 tbsp honey (or light corn syrup)
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2 tbsp heavy cream
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1 cup (100g) sliced almonds (or finely chopped nuts—hazelnuts, pecans, or pistachios work too)
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¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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½ cup (90g) dark or milk chocolate, melted (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
1. Prep the Dough
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In a saucepan, melt butter, sugar, honey, and cream over medium heat, stirring until smooth (about 3–4 minutes).
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, salt, flour, and nuts. Let cool slightly until thick but pliable.
2. Shape & Bake
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Drop teaspoon-sized portions of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 3 inches apart (they spread a lot!).
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Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and lacy.
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Let cool 1–2 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a rack to harden.
3. Optional Chocolate Dip
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Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let set on parchment.
Tips for Success
✅ Spread wisely: These cookies expand dramatically—keep them small!
✅ Work quickly: The dough sets fast; re-warm briefly if it thickens too much.
✅ Storage: Keep in an airtight container with parchment between layers (they’re fragile!).
Why They’re Called “Lace” Cookies
The caramelized sugar and nuts create a translucent, lacy pattern as they bake, giving them their name.
Serving Ideas:
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Pair with coffee or dessert wine.
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Use as edible garnishes for ice cream or cheesecake.
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Package in cellophane bags for gifts.
Troubleshooting
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Too thick? Add 1 tsp more cream next time.
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Sticky? Bake 1–2 minutes longer for crispiness.
Fun Fact: In Italy, they’re called “Lace of Florence” (Merletti di Firenze) and are a Christmas staple. 🎄
Enjoy these delicate, nutty delights! 😊
