It's always good, I think, to give something homemade for an occasion like Fathers Day. Fathers Day, like Mothers Day has become so over-hyped and commercialised that it's easy to forget the sentiment and lose the point of what the day is supposed to signify. A homemade gift shows that you've given a bit of thought and put a little effort in to whatever it is you've made and that, alone, is always greatly appreciated. My husband adores Florentines and these are a twist on the traditional version. They are really quick and easy to make, require no baking whatsoever and are great for the children to get involved with. Once made, package them up in a pretty box, or stack them in clear cellophane tied with some beautiful ribbon, and they will make a wonderful gift.
4oz of chocolate makes approximately 9 medium sized Florentines, so increase the quantities if you want to make more!
4oz chocolate (I used 4oz of good quality plain for one batch and 4oz of milk for the second batch)
a handful each of: chopped, roasted hazelnuts; pumpkin seeds; dried cranberries (you could use any dried fruit you like, apricots would work very well); and whole almonds (again, use any nuts you like...pistachio would look beautiful, pecans would be lovely, too)
1. Line a baking tray with baking parchment.
2. Melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of simmering water.
3. When the chocolate has melted, spoon disc shapes onto the lined baking tray.
4. Sprinkle each disc with the nuts, dried fruit and seeds and then put into the fridge to set.
5. When the Florentines have set, peel them away from the paper and package them up as you like. Enjoy!