Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

Introduction

This Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry combines buttery puff pastry with a rich almond filling for a delightful treat. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 6 oz almond paste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten (divided)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Place the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, combine the almond paste, softened butter, granulated sugar, and half of the beaten egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Step 4: Spread the almond filling down the center third of the puff pastry.
5. Step 5: Cut diagonal strips on both sides of the pastry. Fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided effect.
6. Step 6: Brush the top of the pastry with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
8. Step 8: Allow it to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of almond extract to the filling mixture.
• Replace sliced almonds with chopped pistachios for a colorful twist.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage

Store leftover pastry in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry flaky.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry for this recipe?

Yes, homemade puff pastry works well and will give a fresh, flaky texture. Just ensure it is fully thawed and rolled out evenly before assembling.

Is almond paste the same as marzipan?

Almond paste is similar but usually less sweet and smoother than marzipan. Either can be used, but marzipan will result in a sweeter filling.

Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 87 reviews

This Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry features a buttery puff pastry filled with a smooth almond paste mixture, elegantly braided and topped with sliced almonds. Baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar, it makes a delightful treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Almond Filling

• 6 oz almond paste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten (divided)

Topping

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Puff Pastry: Place the thawed puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it lies flat and evenly.
3. Make Almond Filling: In a bowl, combine the almond paste, softened butter, granulated sugar, and half of the beaten egg. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Spread Filling: Spread this almond filling evenly down the center third of the puff pastry sheet, leaving space on the sides for the strips.
5. Cut and Fold Strips: Cut diagonal strips on both sides of the pastry, parallel to the filling. Fold these strips alternately over the filling, creating a braided effect that encloses the almond mixture.
6. Egg Wash and Toppings: Brush the top of the braided pastry with the remaining beaten egg to give it a glossy golden finish once baked. Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top for added crunch and flavor.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the pastry to cool slightly before dusting generously with powdered sugar. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Ensure the puff pastry stays cold until ready to use for best puff and flakiness.
• For a richer flavor, you can lightly toast the sliced almonds before sprinkling them on the pastry.
• This pastry is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
• If almond paste is not available, you can substitute with marzipan or a homemade almond filling.

Keywords: almond pastry, puff pastry dessert, flaky almond treat, sweet almond braid, baked almond pastry