Dessert

Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

ByIsla White February 26, 2026February 26, 2026

Introduction

Enjoy a delicate and flaky sweet almond pastry that’s perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack. This braided treat combines buttery puff pastry with a rich almond filling and a sprinkle of sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.

A close-up of a golden brown pastry with at least five visible layers of flaky, crispy dough at the bottom and sides. On top, there are many thin, light brown almond slices scattered evenly, with a light dusting of white powdered sugar covering both the almonds and pastry surface. The pastry sits on white parchment paper over a white marbled background. The texture looks crunchy and light, showing the delicate folding of the dough layers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 large egg, beaten (divided)
6 oz almond paste
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1/4 cup sliced almonds
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Place the thawed puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: In a bowl, mix the almond paste, softened butter, granulated sugar, and half of the beaten egg until smooth.
Step 4: Spread the almond filling down the center third of the pastry. Then, cut diagonal strips on both sides of the pastry beside the filling.
Step 5: Fold the pastry strips alternately over the filling to create a braided effect.
Step 6: Brush the pastry top with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
Step 8: Once cooled slightly, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra almond flavor, add a few drops of almond extract to the filling mixture.
You can substitute sliced almonds with chopped pistachios for a colorful twist.
Use a serrated knife to cut neat diagonal strips for an even braid.
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat.

Storage

Store any leftover pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the pastry soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a rectangular almond pastry with many thin, golden-brown layers of flaky dough visible on the side. The top layer is glossy and covered with sliced almonds, some browned slightly, and a light dusting of white powdered sugar giving texture and sparkle. The pastry rests on a piece of parchment paper placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen puff pastry directly from the freezer?

It’s best to thaw the puff pastry completely in the refrigerator before using to ensure it rolls out smoothly and bakes evenly.

What can I substitute if I don’t have almond paste?

You can use marzipan as a substitute, though it is sweeter. Alternatively, try mixing ground almonds with a bit of honey and butter to approximate the texture and flavor.

Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 76 reviews

This Flaky Sweet Almond Pastry is a delightful and elegant treat featuring tender puff pastry filled with a rich almond paste mixture. Braided to perfection and topped with sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar, it offers a perfect balance of flaky texture and sweet, nutty flavor. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sophisticated dessert.

Author: Isla
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 large egg, beaten (divided)

Filling

6 oz almond paste
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp granulated sugar

Topping

1/4 cup sliced almonds
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate even baking.
Place Puff Pastry: Lay the thawed puff pastry sheet flat on the prepared baking sheet, making sure it is evenly spread without folds.
Prepare Almond Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond paste, softened butter, granulated sugar, and half of the beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Apply Filling: Spread the almond filling evenly down the center third of the puff pastry sheet, leaving the sides free for braiding.
Cut and Braid Pastry: Make diagonal cuts on both sides of the pastry, creating strips. Fold these strips alternately over the almond filling to create a braided appearance, sealing the filling inside.
Egg Wash and Almond Topping: Brush the remaining beaten egg over the braided pastry to give it a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly on top for added texture and flavor.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the pastry for 20-25 minutes, or until it is puffed up and golden brown.
Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove the pastry from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Ensure the puff pastry is fully thawed before using for easy handling and the best texture.
For a richer flavor, you can toast the sliced almonds lightly before adding them on top.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
This pastry can be enjoyed warm or cold and pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and confirm the puff pastry is dairy-free.

Keywords: almond pastry, puff pastry dessert, flaky almond braid, sweet pastry, almond paste recipe

Isla White

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