Pithiviers (Almond Puff Pastry)
Pithiviers is a round French pastry made from two discs of puff pastry enclosing a filling of frangipane — a mixture of ground almonds, butter, sugar, and eggs. The top is scored in a curved pattern before baking, which opens up into a crisp, golden crust. It takes roughly 1.5 hours to assemble and bake.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Parchment Paper
- Round cutter (or a sharp knife)
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry high-quality or homemade
- 1 cup almond flour finely ground
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon milk for egg wash
Instructions
- Prepare the Frangipane: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add almond flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring a smooth, even texture. The mixture should have a creamy consistency and aromatic almond scent.
- Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one puff pastry sheet to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a sharp knife, cut out a circle approximately 10 inches in diameter. Repeat with the second sheet. Transfer one pastry circle to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Assemble the Pithiviers: Spread the frangipane evenly over the pastry circle on the baking sheet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge. Brush the border with a mixture of egg yolk and milk. Carefully place the second pastry circle on top, pressing the edges to seal completely.
- Create the Design: Using a sharp knife, gently score a decorative pattern on the top pastry layer, taking care not to cut through to the filling. Brush the surface with the remaining egg wash for a lustrous finish.
- Bake the Pithiviers: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a twist, incorporate a hint of cardamom or citrus zest into the frangipane for enhanced depth of flavor.
- The dish can also be adapted with gluten-free pastry alternatives.
Nutrition
Calories: 594kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 10gFat: 44gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 17gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 246mgPotassium: 64mgFiber: 2gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 456IUCalcium: 51mgIron: 2mg
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