Navette aux Amandes (Almond Navette)

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (50g) ground almonds 1/2 cup (50g) ground almonds
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 7g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, ground almonds, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
2. 2.
   Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and orange blossom water.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the milk mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for a few minutes until smooth.
6. 6.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a boat-like form, tapering the ends slightly.
7. 7.
   Place the shaped navettes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-18 minutes, or until the navettes turn golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
10. 10.
    Once cooled, dust the navettes with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground Almonds — Make sure to use finely ground almonds for a smooth texture in the pastry.
• Orange Blossom Water — Use a good quality orange blossom water to ensure a delicate floral flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Lemon Zest — Grate the lemon zest finely to infuse the pastry with a subtle citrus aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter pastry, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough.
• Serve the Navette aux Amandes with a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to enhance their visual appeal.
• These pastries are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To add a touch of elegance, serve the Navettes on a decorative platter with a sprig of fresh mint.

Serving advice

Serve the Navette aux Amandes as a delightful addition to your afternoon tea or coffee. Pair them with a fragrant herbal tea or a rich espresso for a truly indulgent experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Navettes on a beautiful serving platter, dusted with powdered sugar. You can also garnish the platter with fresh orange slices or edible flowers to add a touch of elegance.