Ingredients
For the Strawberries:
- 8 ounces fresh strawberries, stems removed and cut into ¼-inch slices
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Pastry:
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ cup (60 grams) fine blanched almond flour
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- All purpose flour for dusting
- 1 puff pastry sheet, defrosted
Topping and Garnish:
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup (37g) sliced raw almonds
- 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Prep Strawberries: In a medium bowl, gently stir the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar to coat them. This helps to bring out their natural flavor and juiciness. Set aside to macerate.
- Make Almond Filling: In an electric mixer bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and egg yolk. Beat on high for 1 minute until well combined and creamy. Add almond flour and almond extract, then beat on high for another 30 seconds until the mixture is light and fluffy. Set aside.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll the defrosted puff pastry sheet to approximately 9×13 inches to even out the size. Cut into 9 equal rectangles and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about ½ inch between each. Prick each piece several times with a fork to prevent excessive puffing.
- Assemble Tarts: Spread about 1 heaping tablespoon of the almond filling onto the center of each puff pastry rectangle, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Top each with 3-4 strawberry slices, evenly distributed.
- Brush Edges & Add Almonds: Whisk the large egg in a small bowl, then brush the edges of each puff pastry piece with the egg wash to ensure a golden crust. Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly atop each tart.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 19-25 minutes, until the pastry edges are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Optionally, lightly dust powdered sugar over the tops before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature to blend smoothly in the almond filling.
- Do not skip pricking the puff pastry, as this helps prevent overly puffed centers.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for optimal flavor and sweetness.
- You may substitute sliced almonds with slivered almonds based on preference.
- These tarts are best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian