Gluten-free lemon friands

Gluten-free lemon friands combine the zesty brightness of lemon with the nutty taste of almonds and the sweetness of coconut. These light, moist treats are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

23 Dec 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 egg whites
1 cup almonds
1/3 cup powdered sugar
2/3 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup butter
2 tbsp lemon zest
1/3 cup dried coconut meat
Gluten-free lemon  friands

Gluten-free lemon friands are a delightful treat that combines the tangy zest of lemons with the nutty richness of almonds and the tropical flavor of coconut. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for those who have a gluten intolerance or anyone looking for a delicious and unique baked good. With a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, these friands are sure to impress at any gathering.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a friand or muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Process the Almonds:
- Place the almonds in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. Be careful not to over-process into almond butter.
3. Melt the Butter:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it's fully melted. Set it aside to cool slightly.
4. Mix Egg Whites:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks. This will help incorporate air into your friands, giving them a light and airy texture.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, combine the ground almonds, powdered sugar, all-purpose white wheat flour, and dried coconut meat. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the whisked egg whites. Mix until just combined.
- Pour in the melted butter and add the lemon zest. Stir carefully until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
7. Spoon Batter into Pan:
- Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared friand or muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
8. Bake:
- Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the friands are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool:
- Remove the tin from the oven and allow the friands to cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the friands to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve:
- Once fully cooled, you can dust the friands with a little extra powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve and enjoy these delightful gluten-free lemon macaroon friands with a cup of tea or coffee!

There you have it - a scrumptious recipe for gluten-free lemon macaroon friands that is both easy to follow and incredibly satisfying. These friands are a great addition to any dessert table and will surely become a favorite for anyone who tries them. Enjoy the burst of lemon flavor and the delightful texture of coconut and almonds in every bite.

Gluten-free lemon friands FAQ:

What is the baking time for gluten-free lemon friands?

Bake the friands in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. They should be golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

How can I tell if my lemon friands are done?

Your lemon friands are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick has wet batter, give them a few more minutes.

Can I substitute the almond meal in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute almond meal with ground hazelnuts or sunflower seed meal for a nut-free version. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change slightly.

How should I store leftover friands?

Store the cooled friands in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for about a week or frozen for longer storage.

What are some dietary notes for this recipe?

These lemon friands are gluten-free due to the use of almond meal and the choice of all-purpose white wheat flour. Ensure that all ingredients, especially the flour, are certified gluten-free if strictly avoiding gluten.

Tips:

- Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them. This will help in achieving a better texture for your friands.

- Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor. The oils in the zest add a wonderful aromatic quality to the friands.

- If you don't have a food processor, finely chop the almonds to ensure they are well distributed in the batter.

- Make sure to grease your friand molds well to prevent sticking. You can also use silicone molds which are easier to work with.

- Let the friands cool in their molds for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them set properly and maintain their shape.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 3.74g
Sugar 13g
Fat 27g

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