Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your guests with a dessert that blends elegance and indulgence, Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry is the perfect treat. It offers the flakiness of puff pastry with a nutty, aromatic almond filling, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry

Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry is a delightful, flaky pastry filled with a smooth almond cream mixture. This pastry is a combination of buttery layers of puff pastry paired with the rich, nutty flavor of ground almonds, sugar, butter, and eggs.

It’s a recipe that brings together simple ingredients to create a sophisticated dessert or snack that’s perfect for tea time, parties, or as a sweet treat after dinner. With Jamie’s twist on a classic pastry, you get a lighter, more aromatic, and flavorful experience that is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Puff Pastry: Preferably store-bought, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade puff pastry works well too.
2. Ground Almonds: These create the almond filling and give the pastry its rich, nutty taste.
3. Butter: Unsalted, softened butter to create a creamy filling and to brush on top of the pastry for a golden finish.
4. Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the almond filling and adds a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
5. Eggs: One egg for the almond mixture to bind everything together, and an extra egg for egg wash to give the pastry a golden, glossy finish.
6. Vanilla Extract: A small amount adds depth to the flavor of the almond filling.
7. Flour: A little bit of plain flour to help thicken the almond mixture and to dust the work surface when rolling out the puff pastry.
8. Salt: A pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness and bring balance to the flavors.

Equipment Needed

To make this scrumptious almond puff pastry, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Baking Sheet: To place the pastry on for baking.
2. Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent the pastry from sticking.
3. Rolling Pin: To roll out the puff pastry to your desired thickness.
4. Mixing Bowls: To combine the almond filling ingredients.
5. Pastry Brush: To apply the egg wash on top of the pastry.
6. Knife or Pizza Cutter: To cut the pastry into the desired shapes or sizes.
7. Whisk: To mix the egg and brush it over the pastry.
8. Measuring Spoons & Cups: To ensure the right proportions of sugar, flour, and other ingredients.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry?

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F), ensuring it’s hot and ready for the pastry.
2. Prepare the Almond Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the softened butter and one egg to the mixture and whisk until it forms a smooth, creamy paste. Stir in a dash of vanilla extract for added flavor.
3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to your desired thickness. Be careful not to make it too thin to avoid tearing. If you’re using store-bought pastry, it’s typically already rolled out for convenience.
4. Assemble the Pastry: Cut the rolled-out pastry into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Spoon a small amount of the almond filling in the center of each piece of pastry.
5. Fold the Pastry: Fold the pastry over the almond mixture to create a half-moon or square shape, depending on your cutting pattern. Seal the edges by pressing them lightly together with your fingers or a fork.
6. Egg Wash: Beat the second egg and use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash to the tops of the pastries. This will help them achieve a golden, glossy finish while baking.
7. Bake: Place the filled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for around 15-20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed up.
8. Serve: Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven but can also be kept for a day or two if stored in an airtight container.

Expert Tips

1. Use Chilled Puff Pastry: For the best results, work with chilled puff pastry. This ensures that the layers remain distinct and flaky as they bake.
2. Customize the Filling: If you prefer, you can add a bit of grated chocolate or a drizzle of honey to the almond filling for an extra twist.
3. Watch the Oven: Puff pastries bake quickly, so keep a close eye on them. If they start to brown too much before they’re done, cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
4. Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill your pastries, as it could cause the almond cream to spill out while baking, making them a bit messy.
5. Serve with a Dusting of Icing Sugar: For an elegant finishing touch, dust the cooled pastries with a little icing sugar right before serving.

Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry is a beautiful marriage of delicate puff pastry and rich almond filling that results in an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re baking it for a special event or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this recipe is sure to impress with its flakiness, nutty aroma, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a dessert that feels luxurious without being overly complicated, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry

Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry is a delectable treat that’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. This pastry combines the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with the light, flaky texture of puff pastry, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. However, you can experiment with various ingredients and techniques to make the recipe your own.

1. Almond and Raspberry Puff Pastry: Add a touch of tangy raspberry jam or fresh raspberries in the center before rolling out your almond filling. The combination of almonds and raspberries creates a delightful contrast between the richness of the nuts and the tartness of the fruit. To make it even more indulgent, drizzle some melted chocolate on top after baking.
2. Cinnamon Almond Puff Pastry: Spice things up by adding ground cinnamon or even a pinch of nutmeg to your almond paste. This variation works wonderfully if you’re looking to add a cozy, aromatic twist. You can also top the pastry with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for a beautiful caramelized finish.
3. Vegan Almond Puff Pastry: For a vegan version, simply substitute the puff pastry with a plant-based option and make sure the almond paste is dairy-free. Use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener instead of honey. These small changes ensure you still get the same delicious result without the use of animal products.
4. Almond and Apricot Puff Pastry: For a more exotic flavor, add some chopped dried apricots to the almond filling. The sweet and slightly tangy apricots complement the rich almonds perfectly. You can also brush the top of the pastry with some apricot jam after baking for an extra glossy finish.
5. Almond and Orange Puff Pastry: Incorporate orange zest into your almond paste for a bright, citrusy flavor. You could also add a tablespoon of fresh orange juice to the filling for added moisture and flavor depth. This variation is perfect for a spring or summer dessert.
6. Almond and Dark Chocolate Puff Pastry: For chocolate lovers, add small chunks of dark chocolate to the almond filling. The bitter chocolate contrasts with the sweetness of the almonds, creating a wonderfully balanced flavor. A drizzle of melted dark chocolate after baking can elevate the pastry to an even more decadent level.

By experimenting with these variations, you can take Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry in many delightful directions, depending on the occasion or your personal taste preferences.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Almond Puff Pastry, you may find yourself with some leftovers. To ensure that they stay fresh and retain their flaky texture, follow these best practices for storage:

1. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to consume your leftovers within a day or two, it’s safe to store your Almond Puff Pastry at room temperature. Simply place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will keep the pastry from drying out and losing its crispiness. Make sure the container is placed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
2. Refrigeration: If you’re keeping the pastries for more than a couple of days, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. Wrap each piece individually in parchment paper, then place them in an airtight container or resealable bag. The cold will help preserve the freshness, but keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly affect the flakiness of the pastry.
3. Freezing for Longer Storage: If you have a batch of Almond Puff Pastry you won’t be able to enjoy right away, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze, first ensure the pastries are completely cool. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will prevent freezer burn and preserve the flavors. For best results, consume the frozen pastries within 1-2 months.
4. Reheating Leftovers: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover Almond Puff Pastry, the key to reviving its flaky texture is reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pastries on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until the pastries are crisp again. This will bring back their freshly baked appeal.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your Almond Puff Pastry fresh and delicious for days, ensuring that you can enjoy it at your leisure.

What Goes Well With Almond Puff Pastry?

Almond Puff Pastry is a versatile treat that pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavors and beverages. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, snack, or part of a larger meal, here are some excellent pairings that will complement the pastry:

1. Fresh Fruit: Serve Almond Puff Pastry alongside fresh seasonal fruits like berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries), sliced apples, or citrus segments. The freshness of the fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, nutty pastry.
2. Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla, almond, or pistachio ice cream pairs beautifully with the pastry. The cold, smooth texture of the ice cream enhances the flaky, crisp layers of the puff pastry, creating a delightful contrast.
3. Coffee or Espresso: Almond Puff Pastry goes hand-in-hand with a cup of strong coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the pastry, making it a perfect pairing for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
4. Whipped Cream or Creme Fraiche: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or tangy creme fraiche can add richness and balance to the pastry. If you’ve added fruit or jam to the pastry, the creaminess of these additions will create a deliciously smooth contrast.
5. Dessert Wine or Champagne: A glass of sweet dessert wine like Sauternes, Moscato, or a crisp champagne can elevate the flavors of the Almond Puff Pastry. The effervescence of champagne or the sweet notes of dessert wine complement the buttery, almond flavors of the pastry.
6. Chocolate Sauce: For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the pastry creates a decadent indulgence. Dark chocolate pairs particularly well with almonds, adding an extra layer of depth to the dish.
7. Cheese: For a more savory take, pair the almond pastry with a creamy cheese like Brie or Camembert. The creamy texture of the cheese balances the crunchy, flaky pastry, making for an elegant and unexpected pairing.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry is a delightful pastry that’s simple to make and offers endless possibilities for variation. Whether you’re looking to enhance the almond flavor with spices, fruits, or chocolate, or making it vegan for dietary preferences, there’s something for everyone.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy your creation for several days, and pairing it with fresh fruits, coffee, or a rich dessert wine will elevate your tasting experience. With all of these ideas in mind, you’ll be able to serve Almond Puff Pastry in a variety of delightful ways, making it a favorite at any gathering.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry?

To make Jamie Oliver’s almond puff pastry, you will need puff pastry, ground almonds, sugar, butter, an egg, almond extract, and optionally, icing sugar for dusting. These ingredients combine to create a rich, sweet, and flaky pastry.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the almond puff pastry in advance. You can make the filling and store it in the fridge for up to a day before using it. The puff pastry itself can also be prepared and frozen until you’re ready to bake.

How Do I Roll Out The Puff Pastry For This Recipe?

When rolling out the puff pastry for Jamie Oliver’s almond puff pastry, make sure your work surface is lightly floured. Roll the pastry into a rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick, to ensure a light, flaky texture when baked.

Can I Substitute Ground Almonds In Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry Recipe?

Yes, if you don’t have ground almonds, you can substitute with almond meal or even finely ground cashews or hazelnuts. However, using ground almonds provides the best flavor and texture for this specific recipe.

What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Almond Puff Pastry?

Leftover almond puff pastry should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the pastry and reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispness.

How Can I Make The Almond Puff Pastry More Flaky?

To make Jamie Oliver’s almond puff pastry more flaky, ensure that your puff pastry is cold when you work with it. Also, avoid overworking the dough. The cold butter and proper folding will create the layers needed for a flaky texture.

Can I Use Homemade Puff Pastry For This Recipe Instead Of Store-bought?

Absolutely!

You can use homemade puff pastry for this recipe if you prefer. Homemade pastry will give you more control over the texture and ingredients, but store-bought puff pastry is a convenient alternative that works just as well.

Can I Add Fruit To Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry For Extra Flavor?

Yes, adding fruit such as sliced apples, pears, or berries is a great way to enhance the flavor of the almond puff pastry. Just be sure to lightly cook the fruit to prevent excess moisture from sogging up the pastry.

How Long Should I Bake Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry?

Bake the almond puff pastry at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up. Make sure to keep an eye on it as oven temperatures may vary, and you want it to achieve a crisp, golden finish.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry Without An Egg Wash?

Yes, you can skip the egg wash if you prefer. The egg wash helps to give the pastry a golden, glossy finish, but you can use a milk wash or even leave it out for a slightly less shiny result.