Flaky Raspberry Almond Pinwheel Pastries

These Raspberry Almond Pinwheels are a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry, rich almond paste, and fruity raspberry jam. Perfect for brunch, tea parties, or as a bite-sized dessert, these pastries are elegant yet easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy these bakery-style treats in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 1/4 cup raspberry jam
  • 1/4 cup almond paste, softened
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • On a lightly floured surface, gently unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet. Use a rolling pin to roll it out slightly, just enough to smooth any creases.

Step 2: Spread the Filling

  • Spread the softened almond paste evenly over the surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Next, spread the raspberry jam over the almond paste in a thin, even layer.

Step 3: Roll and Slice

  • Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log.
  • Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
  • Place each pinwheel slice flat on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

Step 4: Bake

  • Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
  • Sprinkle each pinwheel with a few sliced almonds.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.

Step 5: Serve

  • Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
  • Dust with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

These Raspberry Almond Pinwheels make a delightful addition to any brunch spread, dessert table, or afternoon tea. Their combination of fruity raspberry and nutty almond flavors is perfectly complemented by the flaky, buttery pastry. Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an elegant and satisfying treat.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

Helpful Notes

  • Thawing Puff Pastry: For best results, thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator for about 30-40 minutes or until pliable but still cold.
  • Spreading Almond Paste: If the almond paste is difficult to spread, microwave it for a few seconds to soften, making it easier to apply evenly.
  • Rolling Tip: Roll the pastry tightly to keep the pinwheels from unrolling as they bake.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

  • Chef Julia Child: “Cold ingredients are key when working with puff pastry to ensure a beautiful, flaky rise.”
  • Chef Mary Berry: “A thin layer of jam is all you need—too much can cause the pastry to become soggy.”
  • Chef Jacques Pépin: “Brush egg wash on pastries for a professional-looking golden finish.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of jam?
Absolutely! Try strawberry, apricot, or blackberry jam for a different flavor twist.

2. How can I make these pastries less sweet?
Use unsweetened almond paste and skip the powdered sugar dusting for a less sweet version.

3. Can I make the pinwheels in advance?
Yes, assemble the pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Bake just before serving.

4. What’s a good substitute for almond paste?
Marzipan works well as a substitute, though it’s slightly sweeter. You could also use a small amount of ground almonds mixed with sugar and a few drops of almond extract.

5. Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?
Yes, freeze the assembled pinwheels on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

6. Can I skip the egg wash?
The egg wash gives a nice golden color, but you can omit it if preferred. The pastries will be slightly less golden but still delicious.

7. How do I prevent the jam from leaking out?
Use a thin layer of jam and avoid spreading too close to the edges. Rolling the pastry tightly also helps minimize leaks.

8. Can I use homemade puff pastry?
Yes, homemade puff pastry will work beautifully and add an extra buttery flavor to the pinwheels.

9. Are these pastries vegan-friendly?
To make them vegan, use a plant-based puff pastry, swap the egg wash with plant milk, and use a vegan-friendly almond paste.

10. How can I prevent the pastries from sticking to the pan?
Using parchment paper is the best way to prevent sticking, as it also makes for easy cleanup.

These Raspberry Almond Pinwheels are flaky, flavorful, and irresistible—perfect for when you want an elegant treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy these quick-to-make pastries that bring a taste of bakery-style indulgence to your home!

Leave a Comment