Pithiviers with Almond Cream Filling

Ingredients

• 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 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 34g, 15g
• Protein: 6g
• 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 mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. 3.
   Roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a circle of about 12 inches in diameter. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. 4.
   Spread the almond cream filling evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. 5.
   Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry into a slightly larger circle than the first one. Place it over the almond cream filling.
6. 6.
   Press the edges of the two puff pastry sheets together to seal the Pithiviers. Use a knife to score a decorative pattern on the top of the pastry.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar 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 evenly baked Pithiviers.
• Ground almonds — For the best texture and flavor, use finely ground almonds. If you prefer a smoother filling, you can also use almond flour.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can add a splash of almond extract to the almond cream filling.
• For an extra touch of elegance, garnish the Pithiviers with slivered almonds before baking.
• Serve the Pithiviers warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• If you don't have ground almonds, you can substitute them with ground hazelnuts or a combination of ground almonds and pistachios.
• To make individual Pithiviers, cut the puff pastry into smaller circles and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Serving advice

Serve the Pithiviers as a dessert or a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea. It can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

To present the Pithiviers beautifully, dust it generously with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also place a few fresh berries or mint leaves on top for an extra pop of color.