Hey y'all! If you're searching for a treat that's equal parts crispy, buttery, and filled with rich almond sweetness, you’re in for a real treat with this Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry. It's the kind of dessert that's perfect for breakfast with coffee, dazzling at brunch, or impressing guests at any celebration. The layers are irresistible, and the almond filling is pure bliss. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Easy to make with store-bought puff pastry for convenience.
- Delicate, flaky layers and a lusciously sweet almond filling in every bite.
- Ideal for breakfast, dessert, holidays, or gifting to friends.
- Looks bakery-worthy but requires only simple steps and ingredients.
- Customizable with different fillings or toppings for any taste.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (approx. 225g/8oz)
- ⅓ cup (70g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (60g) almond flour (finely ground almonds)
- 3 tablespoon (43g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg, separated
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoon sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Make the Almond Filling
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the almond flour, egg yolk (save the white for later), almond extract, and all-purpose flour. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unfold or roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle about 10x12 inches (25x30 cm).
- Spread the almond filling evenly down the center third of the pastry, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) border along the edges.
Step 3: Shape the Pastry
- Make diagonal cuts on the two outer thirds of the pastry, about 1 inch apart, from the edge toward the filling (do not cut into the filling).
- Fold the top and bottom edges over the filling, then braid the strips over the filling, alternating sides for a woven look.
- Brush the entire pastry with the reserved egg white for shine.
- Sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Thaw your puff pastry according to package instructions for best results; do not let it get too soft.
- For a richer almond flavor, toast the almond flour lightly in a dry pan before using.
- If the pastry browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
Variations
- Chocolate Almond Pastry: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the almond filling.
- Raspberry Almond Pastry: Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam under the almond filling for a sweet-tart twist.
- Vegan Almond Pastry: Use vegan puff pastry, plant-based butter, and a flaxseed “egg” instead of regular egg.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Medium mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or sturdy whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, reheat briefly in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Enjoy warm with a cup of fresh coffee or tea for breakfast.
- Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for extra sweetness at brunch.
- Serve alongside fresh berries or whipped cream for a fancy dessert plate.
Pro Tips
- Keep your puff pastry cold until ready to use for maximum flakiness.
- Use an egg wash (egg white) for beautiful golden color and a slight crunch.
- Allow the pastry to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing to maintain clean layers.
FAQ
- Can I make this pastry ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble up to the baking step, refrigerate covered, and bake within 24 hours for freshly baked results.
- Can I freeze Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry?
- Absolutely – wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze baked or unbaked. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
- What if I don't have almond flour?
- No worries! Simply finely grind whole blanched almonds in a food processor until they reach a sandy texture.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
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3Add the almond flour, egg, almond extract, and all-purpose flour to the butter mixture. Mix until a smooth almond cream forms.
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4Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the almond cream evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
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5Carefully fold the edges over and sprinkle sliced almonds on top. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
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6Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and puffed. Cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, slice, and serve.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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