Delight in the sophistication and rich flavor of this Elegant Almond Braid, a pastry that combines the tender layers of croissant dough with a luscious almond cream filling. This beautifully braided treat is topped with sliced almonds for a delightful crunch and finished with a sweet almond glaze, making it not only visually appealing but irresistibly tasty. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a refined snack, this almond braid is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This
The Almond Braid stands out for its exquisite texture and nutty, sweet flavors that are perfectly balanced in every bite. The almond cream filling, made from almond flour and butter, provides a soft contrast to the flaky croissant dough, while the almond glaze adds a smooth, sweet finish that complements the overall pastry. This treat is a fantastic choice for almond lovers and those who appreciate elegant baked goods.
Perfect Occasion
This almond braid is ideal for special occasions such as bridal showers, elegant brunches, or tea parties. It can serve as a sophisticated addition to any holiday table or as a special weekend treat. The beauty and taste of this pastry make it a great option for entertaining guests or for a luxurious family breakfast.
Decoration Tips
For an extra touch of elegance, you can dust the almond braid lightly with powdered sugar in addition to the almond glaze. Garnishing with a few whole almonds or a sprinkle of edible flowers before serving can enhance its visual appeal. Presenting the braid on a decorative serving platter lined with doilies or garnished with fresh berries can also elevate the overall presentation.
- Ingredients:
- Filling:
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1-1/2 teaspoons almond extract
- Croissant Dough
- Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
- Almond Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Filling:
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, cream together butter, almond flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, salt, egg, and almond extract until smooth.
- Roll out the croissant dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the almond cream down the center of the dough. Make 1-inch diagonal cuts along both sides of the filling, then braid the strips over the filling.
- Whisk together egg and water for the egg wash. Brush this over the braid and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm braid before serving.
Enjoy this beautifully crafted Almond Braid, a pastry that promises to be as delightful to look at as it is to eat!