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French Almond Pithivier Puff Pastry Pie

This French almond pithivier puff pastry pie features a rich frangipane filling tucked between layers of flaky puff pastry, perfect for any special occasion.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Pastry
Cuisine: French
Calories: 412

Ingredients
  

For the Frangipane Filling
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 g)
  • 1/2 cup almond flour (50 g) Choose finely ground, fresh almond flour for best texture.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (about 4 tablespoons, 50 g) Use salted butter with caution, reduce salt elsewhere.
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch Can be substituted with arrowroot starch if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dark rum (or extra vanilla) Swap for extra vanilla to keep it alcohol-free.
For the Pastry
  • 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed Enough for one 8-inch base and one slightly larger top circle.
  • 1 large egg yolk, beaten For glazing the top.
  • All-purpose flour, for dusting the work surface
  • Water, for brushing the border

Method
 

Make the Almond Frangipane
  1. Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg until smooth. Add almond flour, cornstarch, vanilla, and dark rum; mix until smooth and spreadable, then refrigerate.
Cut and Chill the Puff Pastry
  1. Divide thawed puff pastry in half, keeping one piece chilled while rolling one half into an 8-inch circle about 1/8 inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill. Cut a slightly larger circle for the top and keep chilled.
Fill and Seal the Pie
  1. Prick the base circle with a fork to limit puffing under the filling. Spread frangipane over the center, leaving a 1-inch border. Brush the border lightly with water, and lay the larger pastry circle over the top, sealing the edges firmly.
Shape the Edge and Decorate
  1. Shape a scalloped edge by pressing a butter knife between your fingers all around the pie. Cut a small steam vent in the center and score curved lines. Brush with beaten egg yolk, avoiding the cut edges.
Chill, Bake, and Cool
  1. Chill the assembled pithivier for at least 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until deep golden brown. Cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Store Leftovers the Right Way
  1. Store baked leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. For best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven before serving.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature. Pairs well with vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or whipped cream. Can be frozen for up to 2 months, thaw slices separately.