Jamie Oliver Almond Puff Pastry Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry is a delicious twist on the classic puff pastry, where you incorporate almond paste or almond flour into the dough. This brings a nutty, rich flavor and a slightly sweet aroma to the pastry which is perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. It’s flaky, buttery and light. just like a traditional puff pastry. but with the added depth and texture of almonds. You can use it for everything from tarts and turnovers to savory pastries like croissants or even to wrap a delicious filling of your choice. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that takes your baking to the next level.

Jamie Oliver Almond Puff Pastry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Making Jamie’s Almond Puff Pastry involves a handful of ingredients but most of them are staples in baking. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Butter – For that melt-in-your-mouth flakiness.
2. Plain flour – The base of any pastry dough.
3. Almond flour or almond meal. This is where the almond flavor comes from. It gives the pastry a unique, nutty richness.
4. Icing sugar – A bit of sweetness to balance the almonds.
5. Pinch of salt – To bring all the flavors together.
6. Cold water – To bind everything, keeping the dough firm and manageable.

In essence, you’re combining the usual puff pastry ingredients with almond flour for a nutty upgrade. It’s straightforward but the almond twist is the secret to making it stand out.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy equipment to pull this off. Here’s what you’ll use:

1. Mixing bowl – To bring everything together.
2. Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the dough and for that lovely, thin, delicate puff.
3. Baking tray – For placing your pastries on during baking.
4. Cling film or parchment paper. To wrap and rest the dough, ensuring it stays cool and doesn’t stick.
5. Knife – For cutting the dough or scoring the top of your pastry if needed.

That’s pretty much it. No special gadgets required. just basic kitchen tools you probably already have.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry

This process is a bit of a workout but it’s totally worth it. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the plain flour, almond flour, icing sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix them well so that the almond flour is evenly distributed.
2. Incorporate the Butter: Cut your butter into small cubes and add it into the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs. You want to work quickly so that the butter stays cold.
3. Add the Cold Water: Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, just until the dough comes together. You might not need to use all the water, so be careful not to make it too wet. The dough should be firm but not sticky.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap your dough in cling film and place it in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the butter firm up which is crucial for achieving that flaky texture when baking.
5. Roll and Fold: Once chilled, roll the dough out into a rectangle. Fold the dough in thirds, like a letter. This is the first “turn”. Repeat this rolling and folding process about 4 times, letting the dough chill between each turn. This creates those signature layers.
6. Shape and Bake: After the final fold, roll the dough out one last time and shape it as you need (into tarts, turnovers, etc.). Place the pastries on a baking tray and bake at a high temperature (around 200°C/400°F) until golden brown and puffed up-usually around 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your pastry.

What I Learnt

I’ve baked a lot of pastries in my time but Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry taught me a few key things. First, the importance of keeping the butter cold. it’s crucial for that flakiness. The cold water trick is also something I’ve used in other recipes since and it makes a big difference in achieving the right texture.

Another thing I learned was that almond flour isn’t just for adding flavor. it helps with the dough’s structure. The addition of almond flour gives the pastry a unique crumbly texture that sets it apart from regular puff pastry. The key is in the folding and chilling steps. getting that delicate balance between crispy layers and tender insides.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry

Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry is already a delightful treat but sometimes a few tweaks can elevate it even more! Here’s how to make it your own:

1. Flavor Boosters: You can play with the filling to add more depth. Swap out a portion of the almond paste for hazelnut or pistachio paste for a richer, nuttier base. Or, add a hint of orange zest for a citrusy twist that cuts through the sweetness.
2. Spices and Herbs: A little ground cinnamon or cardamom can transform the flavor profile. You could also add a pinch of sea salt to balance out the sweetness of the almond paste. For a more adventurous version, fresh thyme or rosemary mixed into the almond paste would bring a surprising but delightful contrast.
3. Dough Modifications: While puff pastry is delicious, it can sometimes be a bit heavy. Try swapping out a portion of the butter in the puff pastry for something like cold coconut oil to add a subtle tropical note. It also gives the pastry a flakier texture.
4. Textures: To add a little crunch, sprinkle some sliced almonds on top before baking. This will give it a nice contrast against the soft almond filling and puff pastry.
5. Drizzle and Glaze: After baking, brush a simple sugar syrup or honey glaze on top to give the pastry a golden, shiny finish. You can even add a touch of vanilla or almond extract to the glaze for extra flavor.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which might be unlikely, given how good it is), here are a few tips for storing your almond puff pastry:

1. Room Temperature: Store any leftover pastry in an airtight container at room temperature. It’ll stay fresh for about 2 days. The puff pastry will lose some of its initial crispness but it will still be delicious. You can reheat it in a low oven to restore some of that flaky texture.
2. Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life, freezing is your best bet. Wrap the pastry tightly in cling film or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It’ll keep for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s heated through and crispy again.
3. Avoid the Fridge: It’s tempting to pop leftovers into the fridge but puff pastry can become soggy when chilled. If you must refrigerate, wrap it tightly and reheat in the oven to bring back some of the crunch.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry?

Almond puff pastry is already rich and indulgent, so pairing it with complementary flavors is key. Here are some ideas for a complete meal or dessert:

1. Fruits and Berries: Serve it with a side of fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries or blueberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the almond filling perfectly. A drizzle of cream or a dollop of whipped mascarpone could add a creamy element.
2. Coffee or Tea: This pastry is a great companion to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The rich almond flavor pairs well with the bitterness of a strong coffee or the floral notes of a good Earl Grey.
3. Ice Cream or Sorbet: For a more indulgent dessert experience, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing fruit sorbet. The cold, smooth texture will contrast nicely with the warm, flaky pastry.
4. Cheese: If you’re going for something savory, pair the pastry with a small platter of cheeses. A mild, soft cheese like brie or mascarpone or a sharper cheese like a well-aged cheddar, would complement the almond flavors without overpowering them.
5. Salads: For a light lunch or dinner, pair the puff pastry with a fresh, simple salad. maybe something with mixed greens, a bit of goat cheese and a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the salad will balance out the richness of the pastry.

FAQs

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Almond Puff Pastry Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the pastry and store it in the fridge for a day or two before baking. Just wrap it tightly in cling film.

What Type Of Almond Paste Should I Use For This Recipe?

You should use a smooth almond paste, preferably one with a high percentage of almonds for the best flavor.

How Can I Make This Almond Puff Pastry Recipe Vegan?

For a vegan version, swap butter with plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy milk alternative for any liquid in the recipe.