Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

Introduction

This Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry is a delightful treat that combines crisp puff pastry with a rich almond filling. It’s simple 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 your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Place the thawed puff pastry sheet on 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 and well blended.
4. Step 4: Spread the almond mixture evenly down the center third of the puff pastry.
5. Step 5: Cut diagonal strips on both sides of the pastry, avoiding the center where the filling is.
6. Step 6: Fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided effect.
7. Step 7: Brush the remaining beaten egg over the top of the pastry to give it a shiny, golden finish.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly on top.
9. Step 9: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
10. Step 10: Allow the pastry to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the filling mixture.
• Use a serrated knife to carefully cut the pastry strips to avoid tearing.
• Try topping with chopped pistachios or a drizzle of honey for a different twist.
• Make smaller individual pastries by cutting the sheet into portions before adding filling and folding.

Storage

Store any leftover pastry in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely according to package instructions before assembling the pastry to ensure even baking and proper puffing.

Is almond paste the same as marzipan?

Almond paste and marzipan are similar, but almond paste is coarser and less sweet. For this recipe, almond paste is preferred for a balanced flavor and texture.

Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 86 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry features a golden, buttery puff pastry filled with a smooth almond paste mixture, topped with crunchy sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for a delightful breakfast or an elegant dessert, it combines crisp, flaky layers with rich almond sweetness.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
2. Prepare Pastry: Place the thawed puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it is flat without any folds or creases.
3. Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond paste, softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and half of the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and well blended.
4. Add Filling: Spread the almond filling evenly down the center third of the puff pastry sheet, leaving space on the sides for folding.
5. Shape Pastry: Using a sharp knife, cut diagonal strips on both sides of the pastry, parallel to the filling. Carefully fold the strips over the almond filling, alternating sides to create a braided effect.
6. Brush and Top: Brush the remaining beaten egg over the top of the folded pastry to give it a beautiful golden finish as it bakes. Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top for added texture and flavor.
7. Bake: Bake the pastry in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
8. Serve: Remove the pastry from the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

• Make sure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using to ensure easy handling and proper puffing.
• You can substitute sliced almonds with slivered or chopped almonds if desired.
• For an extra almond flavor, add a few drops of almond extract to the filling mixture.
• Serve the pastry warm or at room temperature; it tastes delicious both ways.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Keywords: almond pastry, puff pastry dessert, flaky pastry, sweet almond filling, baked almond pastry