Almond pastry is a delicate, flaky treat with buttery layers and a fragrant almond-cardamom filling. This traditional pastry is enjoyed in many cultures, particularly during festive occasions. The combination of rich dough and aromatic almond filling creates a deliciously tender pastry that pairs beautifully with tea or coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flaky and Buttery Texture – The layered dough creates a melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Aromatic and Sweet – The almond-cardamom filling provides a fragrant and subtly spiced flavor.
Perfect for Special Occasions – A festive pastry enjoyed during celebrations like Novruz.
Homemade and Authentic – Experience the joy of baking traditional pastries from scratch.
Simple Ingredients, Rich Flavor – Uses basic pantry ingredients for a gourmet result.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

1 cup finely ground almonds
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

1/2 cup melted butter (for layering)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the milk, sour cream, and egg yolk. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the ground almonds, sugar, cardamom, and vanilla extract.
Roll and Layer the Dough: Divide the dough into six portions. Roll each portion into a thin circle and brush with melted butter. Stack the layers together, then roll them into a tight log. Slice into 1-inch pieces.
Shape the Pastries: Roll out each sliced piece, place a spoonful of the almond filling in the center, and fold into a semi-circle, sealing the edges.
Bake: Arrange the pastries on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
Finish and Serve: Let the pastries cool, then dust them with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 10 pastries
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: 320 kcal per pastry

Variations

Nut Variations – Swap almonds for walnuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts.
Extra Spice – Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warmer flavor.
Chocolate Twist – Sprinkle chocolate chips inside the filling for a sweet surprise.
Citrus Zest – Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a subtle citrus aroma.
Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to a week.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked pastries in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

What is the texture of almond pastries like?

These pastries have a crisp, flaky exterior with a slightly soft and nutty filling.

Can I use pre-made puff pastry instead?

Yes, but the texture will differ slightly from the traditional layered dough.

How do I prevent my pastries from becoming dry?

Make sure to brush enough melted butter between the layers and avoid overbaking.

Can I use store-bought almond flour instead of ground almonds?

Yes, but freshly ground almonds provide better texture and flavor.

What should I serve these pastries with?

They pair well with tea, coffee, or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use plant-based butter, coconut milk, and dairy-free sour cream as substitutes.

Can I add honey to the filling?

Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly to maintain balance.

How do I get a perfect golden color?

Brush the tops with a light egg wash before baking.

Can I freeze baked almond pastries?

Yes, allow them to cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

This almond pastry recipe brings together flaky, buttery layers with a fragrant and sweet almond-cardamom filling, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh with tea or as part of a festive dessert spread, these pastries offer a perfect balance of crisp texture and rich flavor. Try this traditional recipe today and experience the magic of homemade almond pastries!

Almond Pastry

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This almond pastry is a traditional, flaky dessert filled with a delicious blend of ground almonds, sugar, and fragrant cardamom. Inspired by Azerbaijani Badambura, these buttery, golden pastries are perfect for celebrations, tea time, or as a sweet treat. Each bite melts in your mouth with delicate, layered dough and a hint of vanilla and spice.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 10 pastries 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Azerbaijani / Middle Eastern
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
In another bowl, combine milk, sour cream, and egg yolk. Gradually mix into the flour mixture to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix ground almonds, sugar, cardamom, and vanilla extract.
Layer the Dough: Divide the dough into six portions. Roll each into a thin circle and brush with melted butter. Stack the layers together, roll into a tight log, and slice into 1-inch pieces.
Shape the Pastries: Roll out each sliced piece, add a spoonful of almond filling in the center, and fold into a semi-circle, sealing the edges.
Bake: Arrange pastries on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
Finish & Serve: Let cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Resting the dough ensures a softer, more elastic texture.
Brushing each layer with melted butter enhances flakiness.
For an extra festive touch, add a pinch of saffron to the filling.