Chinese Aristocrat Almond Puff Pastry

Ingredients

In this Chinese aristocrat adaptation, the traditional Finnish Joulutorttu is transformed into a more refined and luxurious dessert. The almond filling is enhanced with almond extract to intensify the nutty flavor, and the puff pastry is made with a lighter and flakier dough. The presentation is also elevated, with the pastries being shaped into intricate designs that reflect the elegance of Chinese aristocrat cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Joulutorttu, so you can check it out.

• 2 sheets of puff pastry (400g) 2 sheets of puff pastry (400g)
• 1 cup (100g) ground almonds 1 cup (100g) ground almonds
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sliced almonds, for garnish Sliced almonds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, and almond extract. Mix well to form a thick paste.
3. 3.
   Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into squares or rectangles, approximately 10x10cm (4x4 inches).
4. 4.
   Place a spoonful of the almond filling in the center of each pastry square. Fold the opposite corners of the square towards the center, creating a pinwheel shape. Press the corners together to seal.
5. 5.
   Brush the pastries with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle sliced almonds on top for garnish.
6. 6.
   Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Puff pastry — Ensure that the puff pastry is thawed according to the package instructions before using. This will help achieve a flaky and golden result.
• Almond extract — Use high-quality almond extract to enhance the flavor of the filling. Adjust the amount according to your preference for a stronger or milder almond taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a variation, you can add a small dollop of raspberry jam on top of the almond filling before folding the pastry corners.
• Serve the pastries warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the almond mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese Aristocrat Almond Puff Pastries as a delightful dessert or as part of an afternoon tea. Pair them with a cup of fragrant Chinese tea to enhance the experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pastries on a decorative platter, allowing their intricate shapes to shine. Dust them with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch.