Mouthwatering Gluten-Free Portuguese Almond Paste Tarts (Pastéis de Amêndoa)
This gluten-free Portuguese Almond Paste Tarts recipe is perfect for those looking to indulge in an elegant and mouthwatering treat. With its rich aroma and textures that tantalize the senses, these tarts are a delicious fusion of flaky pastry and almond filling, plated with sophistication for a truly cinematic dining experience.
Allergens
Nuts, Eggs
Ingredients
- 1. 200g gluten
- free puff pastry dough (freshly prepared or store
- bought) 2. 250g blanched almonds, finely ground 3. 150g granulated sugar 4. 1 large egg, beaten 5. 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract 6. 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 7. Confectioners' sugar for dusting 8. 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted 9. 1 tablespoon apricot jam (or any preferred fruit jam)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, granulated sugar, beaten egg, almond extract, and sea salt. Mix until well incorporated and a smooth, thick paste forms.
- Roll out your gluten free puff pastry dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 2mm thickness. Using a round cookie cutter (approximately 7cm diameter), cut out as many circles as possible from the dough. Transfer them onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1 inch apart.
- Place a small spoonful of the almond paste mixture in the center of each pastry circle. Moisten the edges of the pastry with a little water, then gently fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for an elegant finish.
- Brush the top of each tart with the melted butter and make a small incision in the center of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 18 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
- While the tarts are cooling, heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth and runny. Pass through a fine mesh strainer to remove any seeds or lumps.
- Once the tarts have cooled slightly, brush the tops with the warm apricot jam to give them a beautiful glaze. Dust with confectioners' sugar for added sophistication.
Chef’s Insight
For an extra touch of luxury, serve these tarts warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
These tarts are perfect for special occasions or as a gift. Wrap them individually in cellophane and tie with ribbon for a thoughtful presentation.