This elegant, flaky pastry is filled with homemade almond paste and braided for a stunning presentation—perfect for brunch or special occasions!
Ingredients
For the Almond Paste (Makes ~1 cup)
- 1½ cups (180g) raw almonds
- 1½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
- 1 egg white
- 1½ tsp almond extract
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup (50g) coconut sugar or granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Extra powdered sugar (as needed for texture)
For the Puff Pastry
- ½ sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- ¼ cup (25g) sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
(Equipment: Food processor, parchment paper, pastry brush)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Almond Paste
- Pulse almonds in a food processor until finely ground.
- Add 1½ cups powdered sugar, egg white, almond extract, and salt; blend until combined.
- Add coconut sugar + vanilla; process until a paste forms.
- If too sticky, add extra powdered sugar 1 tbsp at a time.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Roll out ½ sheet puff pastry to ½-inch thickness on the parchment.
3. Cut & Fill
- Cut diagonal slits along both long sides (leave a 2-inch center strip intact).
- Crumble almond paste down the center.
4. Braid the Pastry
- Fold right end over the filling.
- Alternately cross top and bottom strips over the center, pressing lightly to seal.
- Fold left end over to finish.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
- Brush with egg wash; sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake:
- 10 mins at 400°F (200°C)
- 20-30 mins at 375°F (190°C) until golden.
- Dust with powdered sugar; slice warm.
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use store-bought almond paste?
✅ Yes! Use 7 oz (200g), softened slightly for easier spreading.
Q: Why did my braid unravel?
⚠️ Dough too warm or overstretched—chill pastry for 10 mins if sticky.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
✅ Assemble unbaked; refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed (+5 mins).
Q: How to store leftovers?
- Room temp: 1 day (cover loosely).
- Freeze: Up to 1 month (reheat at 350°F/175°C for 10 mins).
Q: What if I don’t have a food processor?
➡️ Use pre-ground almond flour + mix by hand (texture will be coarser).
Serving Suggestions
☕ Pair with:
- Espresso or chai tea
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
🎉 Perfect for:
- Bridal showers
- Holiday breakfasts
- Afternoon tea
Nutrition (per serving): ~280 kcal | Servings: 8
This buttery, nutty pastry looks fancy but is surprisingly easy—your guests will think you’re a pro! 😉
Pro Tip: For extra shine, brush baked pastry with warmed honey before dusting with sugar! 🍯
