Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Almond Pastry Sticks Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 61 reviews
  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 2 dozen almond pastry sticks 1x

Description

These Almond Pastry Sticks are deliciously flaky and nutty, featuring a buttery dough layered with a sweet almond sugar filling and topped with crunchy sliced almonds. Perfect as a tea-time treat or a delightful snack, they have a tender texture balanced by the crisp toppings and a hint of almond extract for an authentic, aromatic flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons almond extract
  • 1/2 cup salted butter (one stick)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Yolk of 1 egg (white reserved for glazing)

For the Filling and Topping:

  • 1 tablespoon softened butter (for spreading)
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sugar (e.g., Swedish pearl sugar)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Mix Sugar and Almond Extract: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and almond extract thoroughly. Set this aromatic sugar mixture aside for later spreading onto the dough.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  4. Prepare Dough Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 1/2 cup butter and cream cheese on low speed until well blended and smooth. Add the egg yolk and continue blending until the mixture is creamy and uniform.
  5. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pastry tender.
  6. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and knead gently several times until it forms a pliable ball. Roll or press the dough into an approximate 12×12 inch square.
  7. Spread Butter and Layer: Spread the remaining 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly over the dough square. Cut the dough in half; place one half on the prepared cookie sheet with the buttered side facing up.
  8. Add Sugar Mixture and Seal: Spoon the almond sugar mixture evenly over that half of the dough, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges. Place the second half of the dough over the top, butter side down, and press the edges firmly to seal the layers together.
  9. Glaze and Add Toppings: Lightly beat the reserved egg white and brush it over the top layer of dough. Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the surface, followed by a light dusting of coarse sugar for extra crunch and sweetness.
  10. Bake: Bake the pastry in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the pastry is just golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender interior.
  11. Cool and Slice: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes on a wire rack to set. Once cooled, cut the pastry lengthwise in half, then cut into strips approximately ½ to 1 inch wide to create the sticks.
  12. Store and Enjoy: Store the almond pastry sticks in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy this delightful treat with tea, coffee, or as a sweet snack any time of day.

Notes

  • Using sour cream helps replace the moisture and tang lost by reducing the cream cheese from 6 to 4 ounces, ensuring a balanced dough texture.
  • Do not overwork the dough to keep the pastry tender and flaky rather than tough.
  • The egg white brush adds shine and helps the almonds and sugar adhere to the surface during baking.
  • Coarse sugar like Swedish pearl sugar adds a nice crunch and decorative touch—feel free to substitute with other coarse sugars if unavailable.
  • Cool the pastry completely before slicing to avoid crumbling and to maintain clean edges.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for best freshness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: almond pastry sticks, almond cookies, sweet pastry sticks, cream cheese cookies, almond sugar cookies, tea cookies, easy dessert recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://isabellavance.com/almond-pastry-sticks-recipe/