As a child, I remember spending countless afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the sweet scent of pastries wafted through the air. One of my fondest memories is when she taught me how to make the delightful almond cream pastries that would always bring a smile to our faces. Each bite was a perfect blend of flaky pastry and rich, buttery almond cream. Inspired by those cherished moments, I’ve created this recipe that captures the essence of those afternoons spent with my grandmother. These heavenly almond cream pastries are not only easy to make, but they also look stunning and taste divine.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick (1/2 cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 cup almond paste
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Sliced almonds (for topping)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter, using your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture.
Next, sprinkle in the granulated sugar. Gradually add the cold water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
While the dough is chilling, prepare the almond cream filling. In a medium bowl, blend the almond paste with the powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Set aside.
Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles of dough, about 4 inches in diameter. Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In the center of each dough circle, place a generous spoonful of the almond cream filling. Then, fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a beautiful, rustic shape. Brush the exposed dough with the beaten egg to give it a lovely golden color during baking. Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added texture and flavor.
Bake the pastries in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
These heavenly almond cream pastries are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself after a long day. Each bite transports you back to those cozy afternoons with my grandmother, where laughter and love were the main ingredients. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee, and savor every moment!