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Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Keywords: flaky pastry, almond pastry, sweet almond filling, buttery pastry, almond dessert, easy pastry recipe, tea-time treat