Buttery Almond Braid: 7 Irresistible Steps to Delight

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite treat: the Buttery Almond Braid! This beautiful pastry is like a warm hug from the oven, and it instantly fills your kitchen with the most heavenly aroma. Every time I make it, I can’t help but steal a piece before it’s even cooled down—who can resist that buttery, flaky dough stuffed with sweet almond filling? The way it looks, all twisted and topped with that shiny glaze and crunchy almonds, makes it the star of any dessert table. It’s perfect for brunch, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Trust me, when you slice into this braid, you’ll be greeted by a gorgeous swirl of filling and a texture that just melts in your mouth. It’s a delightful experience you won’t want to miss, and I’m so excited to share my recipe with you!

Ingredients List

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 egg, whisked with 1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• Dash of salt (for filling)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (for filling)
• 1 large egg (for filling)
• 7 ounces almond paste, frozen until firm and then grated (for filling)
• 1 cup sliced almonds, divided (for filling and topping)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk (for icing)
• 1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (for icing)

How to Prepare the Buttery Almond Braid

Now, let’s dive into the fun part – making this delightful Buttery Almond Braid! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping this up for any occasion. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to pastry perfection!

Making the Sweet Almond Filling

First things first, let’s whip up that sweet almond filling that’s going to make your braid sing! Start by taking a mixing bowl and creaming together the 8 tablespoons of softened butter and 1/3 cup of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air, making your filling light and luscious. You’ll want to beat it for about 2-3 minutes. Once that’s done, mix in a dash of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Then, beat in 1 large egg until everything is just combined. Now, gently fold in the grated 7 ounces of frozen almond paste along with about 1 cup of slivered almonds. Set this aside, and let those flavors mingle while we prepare the dough!

Preparing the Dough

For the dough, you’ll want to grab your trusty food processor. Combine 2 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Pulse these dry ingredients together for a few seconds to get them well mixed. Next, add in 3 ounces of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened butter, and pulse about 6 times until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Now, here’s the fun part! Slowly add 1/2 cup of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract into the mix. Blend everything until it forms a loose dough. You might need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a bit. Once it’s ready, turn the dough out onto a Silpat mat or parchment paper, and give it a light knead for just 4-5 strokes. This dough should be soft and a bit tacky, so if it’s too sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little flour on it.

Assembling the Braid

Let’s get to the assembly! Roll your dough out into a rectangle about 10 by 12 inches. You’ll want to mark it lengthwise into thirds, which helps guide your filling placement. Spread that sweet almond filling right down the center of the dough. Now, here’s where it gets crafty! Make diagonal cuts, about 1 inch apart, on each side of the filling. This will create those lovely flaps you’ll be folding over. Now, fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides, and don’t forget to pinch the ends to seal it all up. It’s like a little pastry hug!

Baking the Braid

Before popping your braid into the oven, preheat it to 425 degrees F. Transfer the braid onto a baking sheet using your Silpat mat or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Brush the top with your egg wash (that’s the whisked egg with water) to give it a lovely golden color as it bakes. Bake for about 20-22 minutes until it’s beautifully golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells heavenly and the braid has pulled slightly away from the edges. Once it’s out, let it cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes – if you can resist diving in right away!

Glazing and Serving

Now it’s time for the finishing touch! While your braid is cooling, whisk together 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or milk, and 1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to create the glaze. Drizzle this sweet goodness over the top of your braid, and then sprinkle with the remaining sliced almonds for that extra crunch and elegance. Slice it up and serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch everyone’s eyes light up. Trust me, it’ll be the star of your dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll find that whipping up this Buttery Almond Braid is a breeze, even for beginners!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery dough and sweet almond filling creates a flavor that’s simply to die for. You’ll be dreaming about it long after the last slice is gone!
• Stunning Presentation: With its beautiful braid and glossy glaze, this pastry is a showstopper. It’s perfect for impressing guests at brunch or special gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack, dessert after dinner, or a centerpiece for holiday celebrations, this braid fits any occasion beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, making it easy to bake fresh when you need it. Just pop it in the oven, and enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your home!
• Family Favorite: Once you serve this Buttery Almond Braid, it’ll quickly become a beloved treat among family and friends. Everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Buttery Almond Braid turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips that I’ve learned from experience—trust me, they’ll help you nail this recipe every time!

Handle the Dough with Care

This dough can be a little soft, so be gentle when you’re rolling it out. If it feels too sticky, don’t panic! Just sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and your rolling pin. A light touch goes a long way here—you want to keep that flaky texture intact. Also, if your dough is too warm, it can be tricky to work with, so popping it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes can help firm it up. Just make sure not to let it sit too long, or it might get too cold to roll out easily!

Adjusting the Filling

If you find that your almond filling seems too thick or hard to spread, add a tiny splash of milk to loosen it up. You want it to be spreadable but not runny. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can always adjust the filling to your taste. Want a richer flavor? Add a touch more almond extract. Prefer a little more sweetness? A sprinkle of powdered sugar can do the trick. Just remember, balance is key!

Perfectly Sealing the Braid

When you’re folding the strips over the filling, make sure to pinch those ends really well. This helps keep all that delicious filling inside while it bakes. You don’t want any sneaky leaks! A good seal also helps the braid hold its shape, so it looks stunning when it comes out of the oven.

Keep an Eye on Baking Time

Ovens can vary in temperature, so don’t just set a timer and walk away! Start checking your braid a couple of minutes before the recommended baking time. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden brown color. If it’s browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from getting too dark while the inside finishes baking.

Presentation is Everything

When it comes time to glaze, don’t be shy! Drizzle generously over the braid for that wow factor. And sprinkle on those sliced almonds right after glazing while it’s still wet. This way, they’ll stick better and add that delightful crunch you’re after. A little extra sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving can also elevate the presentation, making it look even more irresistible!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Buttery Almond Braid that’ll impress everyone who takes a bite. Happy baking!

Variations

The Buttery Almond Braid is such a versatile pastry, and the best part is you can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand! Here are some fun variations to consider:

Nutty Twists

If you love nuts as much as I do, why not mix it up by swapping in different varieties? Try using chopped walnuts or pecans instead of or in addition to the almonds. A combination of nuts gives a delightful crunch and complex flavor. Just make sure to toast them lightly first for that extra depth!

Spice It Up

Add a little warmth to your filling by incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Just a dash can elevate the flavor profile and give your braid a cozy, inviting aroma. You might also consider a hint of cardamom for a unique twist that pairs beautifully with the almond flavor.

Fruit Infusion

For a fruity touch, consider adding some dried fruits to the filling. Dried cherries or cranberries can add a lovely tartness that complements the sweet almonds perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, a layer of thinly sliced fresh apples or pears can create a delightful texture contrast, just be sure to slice them thin so they bake nicely!

Chocolate Delight

If you’re a chocolate lover, you can’t go wrong by folding in some chocolate chips or cocoa powder into your almond filling. The combination of chocolate and almond is simply divine, and it adds a rich twist that’s sure to impress. Just be cautious not to overpower the almond flavor—you want a balance!

Glazing Variations

Don’t forget to experiment with the glaze as well! You could switch things up by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of orange zest to your icing for a fresh, citrusy kick. A drizzle of melted chocolate on top can also create a stunning finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

With these variations, your Buttery Almond Braid can be a different experience every time you make it. So get creative and make it your own; the possibilities are endless!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious Buttery Almond Braid, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store them properly and get that fresh-baked taste back when you’re ready to indulge again.

Storing Leftovers

To keep your braid fresh, let it cool completely first. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you want to keep it extra fresh, you can place it in an airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out and keep that lovely texture intact. Your Buttery Almond Braid can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge for up to a week. Just keep in mind that refrigeration can change the texture a bit, making it a tad denser, but it’ll still be tasty!

Freezing the Braid

If you’ve got leftovers that you won’t finish within a week, consider freezing them! Wrap the braid tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just take it out and let it thaw overnight in the fridge, or you can leave it out at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating for the Best Taste

To bring your Buttery Almond Braid back to life, I recommend reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place the braid on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from browning too much. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s warmed through and the glaze is nice and glossy again. If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can remove the foil for the last few minutes of heating.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Buttery Almond Braid days after baking, still tasting as delightful as when it first came out of the oven. Happy snacking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of our delicious Buttery Almond Braid! Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any adjustments you make to the recipe.

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Enjoying a slice of this delightful pastry can be a sweet treat, so it’s perfect for special occasions or when you just want to indulge a little. Remember, moderation is key! So go ahead and savor every bite of your Buttery Almond Braid while keeping these nutritional notes in mind.

FAQ Section

Q1. What is a Buttery Almond Braid?
The Buttery Almond Braid is a delightful pastry made from a rich and flaky dough filled with a sweet almond filling. It’s braided to create a beautiful, twisted shape and topped with a glaze and crunchy almonds. It’s perfect for brunch or dessert!

Q2. Can I use store-bought almond paste instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought almond paste works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to freeze it until firm and then grate it before adding it to your filling. This will ensure you get that luscious almond flavor without any hassle!

Q3. How can I make the Buttery Almond Braid vegan-friendly?
You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk in the dough. For the filling, use a vegan butter option and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). These swaps work well while maintaining great flavor and texture!

Q4. What’s the best way to store the Buttery Almond Braid?
To keep your braid fresh, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months!

Q5. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the almond filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure it’s easy to spread. This can save you time on the day you plan to make the braid!

Q6. How do I know when the braid is done baking?
You’ll know your Buttery Almond Braid is done when it’s a beautiful golden brown and has pulled slightly away from the edges of the baking sheet. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is also a good sign! If you’re unsure, a quick poke with a toothpick should come out clean.

For more recipes follow me in page Pinterest.

Print