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Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

4.5 from 68 reviews

This Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry features crisp puff pastry filled with a luscious almond paste mixture, topped with sliced almonds and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack, it combines buttery, nutty flavors with a beautifully golden, flaky crust.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Almond Filling

  • 6 oz almond paste
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 of 1 large egg, beaten

Topping

  • 1/2 of 1 large egg, beaten
  • 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 ensure even baking.
  2. Prepare Puff Pastry: Place the thawed puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet, smoothing it out gently without stretching.
  3. Make Almond Filling: In a bowl, combine the almond paste, softened butter, granulated sugar, and half of the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and cohesive filling.
  4. Assemble Filling: Spread the almond filling evenly down the center third of the puff pastry, creating a long strip.
  5. Cut and Fold Pastry Strips: Cut diagonal strips on both sides of the pastry alongside the filling. Then, fold these strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided appearance.
  6. Brush with Egg and Add Almonds: Brush the top of the pastry braid with the remaining beaten egg to encourage browning, then sprinkle evenly with sliced almonds for texture and flavor.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden, puffed, and cooked through.
  8. Cool and Finish: Allow the pastry to cool slightly on the baking sheet. Finally, dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Notes

  • Ensure the almond paste is softened to blend easily with butter and sugar.
  • If puff pastry is frozen, fully thaw it before starting for best results.
  • The diagonal cuts and folding create a beautiful braid-like presentation and help the pastry cook evenly.
  • This pastry is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
  • For a more intense almond flavor, sprinkle some almond extract into the filling mixture.

Keywords: almond pastry, puff pastry dessert, flaky almond braid, sweet almond treat, almond paste recipe