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Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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