When it comes to baking, few ingredients are as versatile and delicious as almond paste. This sweet and nutty mixture has been a staple in many traditional baked goods for centuries, from French patisserie to Italian desserts. With its rich flavor profile and smooth texture, almond paste is the perfect addition to a wide range of sweet treats. Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert or something new and creative, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouthwatering almond paste recipes.
Almond Paste Croissants
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these flaky, buttery croissants infused with the rich flavor of almond paste.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup almond paste
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar; sprinkle yeast on top.
2. Let mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add flour, salt, and softened butter to the bowl; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out dough into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick).
6. Spread almond paste evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Roll up the dough tightly; cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each croissant.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Almond Paste Stuffed Dates
Sweet and Savory Almond Paste Stuffed Dates Recipe
This elegant appetizer combines the natural sweetness of dates with the rich flavor of almond paste, perfect for parties or special occasions. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can impress your guests with this delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
– 1/4 cup almond paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together almond paste and honey until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with about 1-2 teaspoons of the almond paste mixture, gently pushing it into the date.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the almond paste is lightly toasted and fragrant.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Paste Marzipan Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a perfect combination of almond paste, marzipan, and velvety chocolate. With its subtle nutty flavor and soft texture, it’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup almond paste
– 1/4 cup marzipan
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine almond paste, marzipan, and softened butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool slightly.
7. Fold melted chocolate into the batter until just combined.
8. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Paste Rugelach
Rugelach, a traditional Jewish pastry, gets a boost of flavor and texture with the addition of rich almond paste. This sweet and buttery treat is perfect for special occasions or as a delightful surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup almond paste, crumbled
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Fold in almond paste.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Paste Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies are infused with the rich flavor of almond paste and topped with a sweet jammy filling, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup almond paste, finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Jam or preserves, for filling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chopped almond paste and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before filling with jam or preserves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Paste Danish Pastries
These sweet and buttery pastries are filled with a rich almond paste, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Danish pastry dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup almond paste
– 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the Danish pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Cut out rectangles of dough that are approximately 4 inches by 6 inches.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the almond paste and confectioner’s sugar until well combined.
4. Place a spoonful of the almond paste mixture onto one half of each rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing the edges to seal.
6. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and milk mixture.
7. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pastry.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Almond Paste Frangipane Tart
A classic French dessert, this Almond Paste Frangipane Tart combines the richness of frangipane with the simplicity of a tart crust. The result is a sweet and nutty treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup (120g) almond paste
– 1/4 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together almond paste, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Spread the frangipane mixture evenly over the center of the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
6. Brush the crust with beaten egg and whole milk.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Almond Paste Chocolate Truffles
Transform your taste buds with these decadent truffles, infused with the sweetness of almond paste and the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) almond paste
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (250g) dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together confectioners’ sugar and almond paste until well combined.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until a smooth paste forms.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the almond paste mixture until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Roll the truffle mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe.
Almond Paste Cinnamon Rolls
These indulgent cinnamon rolls are infused with the rich flavor of almond paste and a hint of spice from cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup almond paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add melted butter and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Spread almond paste evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
6. Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg over almond paste.
7. Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space for spreading.
9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Almond Paste Biscotti
These Italian-inspired cookies are a perfect combination of crunchy and chewy, with the added richness of almond paste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/4 cup (60g) almond paste, softened
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, almond extract, and softened almond paste until smooth.
4. Add the egg and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Divide the dough in half and shape into logs about 12 inches (30cm) long.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5cm) between each log.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Paste Coffee Cake
Start your day with a sweet and nutty treat that combines the flavors of coffee, almonds, and caramelized sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup almond paste (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth.
4. Add almond paste and coffee powder; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped almonds.
7. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Almond Paste Macarons
Experience the delicate balance of flavors and textures with these French-inspired macarons filled with a rich almond paste. A perfect treat for any occasion, these bite-sized morsels are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) almond paste, finely ground
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and whip until smooth.
4. Add sifted flour mixture to egg mixture and fold gently.
5. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Tap excess air from macarons and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until tops are firm and bottoms are lightly golden.
8. Allow macarons to cool completely before filling with almond paste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Almond Paste Stuffed Apples
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the richness of almond paste, creating a perfect fall treat. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup almond paste
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the apples and remove the cores, leaving about 1/4 inch at the bottom.
3. In a small bowl, mix together almond paste, brown sugar, and softened butter until well combined.
4. Stuff each apple with the almond paste mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and sprinkle with salt.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Paste Cherry Galette
Sweet and tart, this Almond Paste Cherry Galette is a delightful dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup almond paste
– 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves
– 1 cup pitted cherries
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. Mix almond paste, confectioner’s sugar, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Arrange cherries on top of the almond mixture. Dust with cornstarch.
5. Fold edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a galette shape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Almond Paste Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful banana bread gets a boost from the addition of almond paste, creating a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons almond paste
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped almonds or walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mashed bananas, milk, egg, almond paste, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Almond Paste Energy Balls
These no-bake energy balls are packed with nutritious ingredients to keep you going all day long. Made with almond paste, oats, and nuts, they’re the perfect snack for a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup almond paste
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the almond paste, oats, and chopped almonds.
2. Add in the honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! These energy balls are ready straight from the fridge.
Almond Paste Pancakes
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast by incorporating the rich flavor of almond paste into fluffy pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup almond paste, finely chopped
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the chopped almond paste.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Almond Paste Pear Tart
Sweet Pear Tart with Almond Paste
This elegant tart combines the natural sweetness of pears with the richness of almond paste, creating a delightful dessert perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup almond paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and almond paste until well combined.
4. Arrange pear slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around them.
5. Sprinkle sugar-almond mixture evenly over pears.
6. Fold other half of pastry over pears, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over pastry and cut a few slits for steam release.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Drizzle with honey before serving. Confectioners’ sugar can be dusted on top if desired.
Summary
Discover the versatility of almond paste with these 18 delicious recipes for every occasion. From sweet treats like croissants, macarons, and banana bread to savory options like stuffed dates and cinnamon rolls, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert or a quick breakfast option, these recipes are sure to impress. With flavors ranging from classic almond to chocolatey and fruity, you’ll find inspiration for any meal or gathering.
