Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry

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Golden, buttery layers of puff pastry wrap around a luscious almond filling to create the ultimate Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry. This treat is crisp on the outside, tender inside, and topped with a scatter of toasted almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar. Whether you serve it at brunch, as a dessert, or alongside your afternoon coffee, it will steal the show.

What makes this pastry irresistible is the contrast between textures: the delicate crackle of baked pastry, the creamy sweetness of almond filling, and the satisfying crunch of sliced almonds. Best of all, it looks stunning without requiring fancy baking skills, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.

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What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

For this pastry, store-bought all-butter puff pastry works beautifully. It offers rich flavor and consistent puff without the need to laminate dough at home. If you want to elevate it, seek out French puff pastry, which tends to be slightly more buttery and flaky. Always thaw the pastry sheet in the fridge (not at room temperature) to keep the layers cold and distinct.

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Ingredients for the Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry

• Puff pastry sheet: The foundation of the recipe, providing those signature golden, flaky layers.
• Almond paste: Creates the rich, sweet almond filling at the center.
• Egg: Brushed over the pastry for a glossy, golden finish.
• Sliced almonds: Toasted on top, adding crunch and enhancing the nutty aroma.
• Powdered sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and a beautiful bakery-style look.

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How To Make the Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Break apart the almond paste and gently knead it until pliable. Roll it between parchment into a thin log, roughly the length of your puff pastry sheet. This helps it distribute evenly inside.

Step 2: Assemble the Pastry

Lay the thawed puff pastry sheet on a parchment-lined baking tray. Place the almond paste log in the center. Using a sharp knife, cut slits on both long sides of the pastry, angled slightly, to create strips for braiding. Fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides for a woven effect.

Step 3: Egg Wash and Toppings

Beat the egg and brush it over the braided pastry. Sprinkle sliced almonds generously on top, pressing them lightly so they stick.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, deep golden, and crisp. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Finishing Touch

Once cooled slightly, dust the pastry with powdered sugar. Slice and serve while still warm for the best experience.

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Serving and Storing Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry

Serve this pastry warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own, but pairing it with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it extra indulgent. For brunch spreads, cut it into slices so guests can easily grab a piece.

To store leftovers, wrap the pastry in foil or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, though note the pastry will lose some of its crispness. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes to revive the flakiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Make sure your almond paste is not too wet and don’t overfill. Baking until fully golden also prevents soggy layers.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Assemble the pastry and refrigerate it unbaked, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze it?

You can freeze the baked pastry. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven, not the microwave, for best results.

What if I don’t have almond paste?

You can make a quick almond filling with almond flour, powdered sugar, butter, and a splash of almond extract.

Do I need to toast the almonds beforehand?

No, they will toast beautifully as the pastry bakes, adding a perfect golden crunch.

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Want More Pastry Ideas?

If you love this Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for melt-in-your-mouth sweetness.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups bursting with fruity flavor.
• Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby for a puffy brunch showstopper.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies if you crave caramel richness.
• Shamrock Mint Milkshake Pie for a fresh and creamy dessert.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it anytime: Life with Jam Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you drizzle extra chocolate on top? Add a splash of liqueur to the filling? I love seeing how you make these recipes your own! Feel free to ask questions or share tips—let’s help each other bake better.

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