Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry
Discover the magic behind the perfect Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry, a crispy and buttery treat featuring delicate layers of flaky dough combined with a rich, nutty almond filling. Ideal for breakfasts, desserts, or tea-time, this elegant yet simple pastry melts effortlessly in your mouth and impresses with its texture and flavor.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold milk or cream
Almond Filling Ingredients
- 1 cup ground almonds (almond meal)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
Finishing Ingredients
- 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Slivered almonds (optional, for topping)
- Prepare the Dough: Combine all-purpose flour and cold unsalted butter cubes in a mixing bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add a pinch of salt and slowly pour in cold milk or cream until the dough just comes together. Avoid over-mixing to ensure a tender and flaky texture. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the Almond Filling: In a bowl, whisk together ground almonds, granulated sugar, eggs, almond extract, and melted butter until smooth and well combined. This filling will create a moist and flavorful center for the pastry.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. If the dough feels too soft, chill it again for a few minutes to maintain firmness. Even thickness ensures consistent baking and flaky layers.
- Assemble the Pastry: Spread the almond filling evenly over the rolled dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a log shape or fold it into layers, depending on your preferred style. Seal the edges gently to prevent any filling leakage during baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the assembled pastry onto a lined baking sheet. Brush the surface with beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is crisp and the filling is set. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Keep Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and milk/cream help form flaky layers and prevent greasiness.
- Don’t Overwork Dough: Handle gently to avoid gluten development which leads to toughness.
- Chill Dough Between Steps: Refrigerate dough to keep it firm and easier to roll.
- Use Fresh Almonds: Freshly ground almonds enhance texture and flavor versus pre-packaged almond meal.
- Egg Wash for Shine: Brush pastry with beaten egg for an attractive, glossy finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: flaky pastry, almond pastry, sweet almond filling, buttery pastry, almond dessert, easy pastry recipe, tea-time treat