Best Apricot Almond Twistspampered Chef Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

APRICOT ALMOND STUFFING



Apricot Almond Stuffing image

I have been in search of a good stuffing recipe that could be served any day of the week but does not taste similar to the usual bread/sage Thanksgiving stuffing. After trying several different stuffing recipes, I began to adjust ingredients and to try several new ingredients that I thought would enhance the flavor. I eventually came up with this apricot almond stuffing. It's very tasty with a unique flavor all it's own....perfect for any day of the week, or for that special side dish when company is over, whether you're serving beef or pasta or poultry as the main course. And this is just such a tasty stuffing that I know it's just a matter of time before I eventually replace my traditional bread/sage stuffing at our annual Thanksgiving Dinner with this Apricot Almond Stuffing. (I don't want to invoke an impromptu riot within my family by venturing away from my family's traditional Thanksgiving menu, so I'll preserve family tradiition by offering Grandma's Homemade Stuffing every Thanksgiving for the sake of family peace...at least for the time being.) You can use this to stuff any bird, too. I prefer chicken, but I assume it would go well with turkey or even game hens as well. I hope you like it.

Provided by Northwestgal

Categories     Brunch

Time 45m

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 11

6 croissants, torn into bite-size pieces
1 onion, chopped finely
2/3 cup sliced almonds
1 tablespoon tarragon
1 tablespoon thyme
1 tablespoon parsley
3/4 cup dried apricot, quartered
1 teaspoon orange zest
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon apricot preserves or 1 tablespoon apricot jam
2 cups chicken broth

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Place torn croissant pieces, chopped onion, sliced almonds, tarragon, thyme, parsley, quartered apricot bits, and orange zest in a large mixing bowl.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, apricot preserves (or jam), and half of the chicken broth; stir until blended. Pour the broth mixture over the stuffing mixture.
  • Use a large spatula or wooden spoon to toss the stuffing mixture until all the ingredients are well blended. Use as much of the remaining broth--adding a little at a time--as is needed to get the stuffing thoroughly moist (but not saturated or "soupy"). I usually use nearly all of the 2 cups of broth, with maybe 1/8 cup or so not used (I've never really measured the unused portion).
  • Place stuffing in a 10x10-inch baking dish, cover, and bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes.
  • NOTE - I don't usually grease my pyrex casserole dish for this stuffing, and I have never had a problem with the stuffing sticking to the edges or bottom, and the clean-up is very easy (no crusty pieces stuck to the dish). But, depending on what type of dish you use to roast the stuffing, you might want to first lightly butter your baking dish or lightly coat it with a no-stick cooking spray.
  • TIP - Take advantage of sales, and buy day-old croissants at a reduced price when you plan to make this dish. They will be well moistened with the buttery broth, so it won't matter if they are a bit dry.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 321.9, Fat 19.1, SaturatedFat 9, Cholesterol 43.9, Sodium 553.1, Carbohydrate 32.4, Fiber 3.2, Sugar 13.4, Protein 7.1

APRICOT ALMOND TORTE



Apricot Almond Torte image

This pretty cake takes a bit of time, so I like to make the layers ahead of time and assemble the day of serving, making it an easier option for entertaining. -Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Desserts

Time 1h10m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 16

3 eggs
1-1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ground almonds, toasted
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped
FROSTING:
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon almond extract
1-1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped
1 jar (10 to 12 ounces) apricot preserves
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar and vanilla on high speed until thick and lemon-colored. Combine flour, almonds, baking powder and salt; gradually fold into egg mixture alternately with the whipped cream., Transfer to two greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans. Bake 22-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely., In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar and salt until smooth. Beat in extract. Fold in whipped cream., Cut each cake horizontally into two layers. Place bottom layer on a serving plate; spread with 1 cup frosting. Top with another cake layer; spread with half the preserves. Repeat layers. Frost sides of cake; decorate the top edge with remaining frosting. Sprinkle with almonds.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 546 calories, Fat 25g fat (12g saturated fat), Cholesterol 115mg cholesterol, Sodium 284mg sodium, Carbohydrate 75g carbohydrate (51g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 8g protein.

ALMOND TWISTS



Almond Twists image

Easy, showy recipe, pretty on a cookie platter. They taste like something from a fancy bakery. Adapted from the back of a label.

Provided by Deb Wolf

Categories     Dessert

Time 33m

Yield 24 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 5

2 tablespoons superfine sugar, for rolling
1 (8 ounce) can almond paste
1 (8 1/2 ounce) frozen puff pastry, thawed (1 sheet from a 17.25 ounce package)
1 ounce semisweet chocolate
1 ounce white chocolate

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Sprinkle work surface lightly with superfine sugar.
  • Unfold pastry and roll out to 12" square.
  • Break apart almond paste into little pieces and scatter evenly over half of the dough.
  • Fold dough in half over almond paste. Roll out to 10 x 12".
  • Add more sugar to work surface as needed to keep dough from sticking.
  • Fold dough in half again and roll out again to 10" x 12".
  • Cut in half to make 2 rectangles each 5" x 12".
  • Using a pizza wheel, cut each rectangle into 12 strips, each 1" x 5".
  • Twist each strip into a loose corkscrew and put on ungreased cookie sheets 1" apart.
  • Bake 15 - 18 minutes, until puffed and golden.
  • Remove to wire rack to cool.
  • In two small microwaveable bowls, separately melt the chocolates.
  • Drizzle both chocolates over the cooled twists.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 117.5, Fat 7.6, SaturatedFat 1.8, Cholesterol 0.2, Sodium 27.2, Carbohydrate 11.4, Fiber 0.8, Sugar 5.5, Protein 1.9

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE SWIRL BREAD(PAMPERED CHEF)



Double Chocolate Swirl Bread(Pampered Chef) image

Easy and delicious, slice them open to reveal the goodness of chocolate and almonds! Adapted from All The Best The Pampered Chef.

Provided by Sharon123

Categories     Breads

Time 50m

Yield 4 mini loaves

Number Of Ingredients 9

1/2 cup sliced almonds, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup white chocolate chips, chopped (or you may use all semi sweet chocolate chips)
2 (11 ounce) packages refrigerated French bread dough
1 egg white
1 tablespoon water
1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, grated, divided
1/2 cup white chocolate chips or 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
additional sliced almonds (optional) or chocolate chips (optional)

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 375*F.
  • For bread:.
  • Lightly spray 4 mini loaf pans with nonstick cooking spray. Coarsely chop almonds and white chocolate chips; place in a bowl.
  • Unroll one package of the bread dough on a lightly floured surfaace. Do Not Stretch.
  • Lightly beat the egg white and water in a small bowl. Brush the dough with a portion of the egg white mixture.
  • Grate half of the chocoate chips evenly over the dough(I chop them in the food processor). Sprinkle with half of the almond and white chocolate mixture: roll lightly with a rolling pin, pressing mixture into the dough.
  • Unroll the remaining package of bread dough directly over the first dough layer, matching edges and rolling lightly to seal.
  • Brush dough lightly with a portion of the egg white mixture.
  • Grate the remaining chocolate chips over dough. Sprinkle with remaining white chocolate and almond mixture; roll lightly with rolling pin.
  • Starting at narrow edge, roll dough up tightly; pinch edge to seal. Slice roll into four equal portions; place seam side down in mini pan. Make a deep cut down the length of each loaf without cutting through ends. Brush loaves with remaining egg white mixture.
  • Bake 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven; cool in pan 5 minutes. Remove loaves from pan. Cool completely.
  • For chocolate drizzle, place chocolate chips and oil in a small microwave proof bowl. Place in microwave, uncovered on high 30-40 seconds or until chocolate is melted and smooth. Do not overheat. Drizzle over loaves; sprinkle with additional almonds or chocolate chips, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 787.3, Fat 28.4, SaturatedFat 11.7, Cholesterol 6, Sodium 1002.9, Carbohydrate 115.1, Fiber 6.7, Sugar 31.8, Protein 20

When it comes to delicious and easy-to-make treats, the Apricot Almond Twists are a must-try recipe! The crispy and golden puff pastry is filled with the tangy and sweet apricot preserves, and the nutty and crunchy almonds add an extra layer of flavor and texture to these delightful pastries. Truly a match made in heaven! The Apricot Almond Twists have become a favorite among families and friends, who enjoy these scrumptious pastries as a morning bite, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert after dinner. And the best part? They are super easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and steps to create a beautiful and impressive-looking pastry that will delight your taste buds. To make the Apricot Almond Twists, you'll need some frozen puff pastry sheets, apricot preserves, sliced almonds, egg wash, and a little powdered sugar for garnish. The recipe calls for cutting the puff pastry sheet into strips, brushing them with egg wash, and filling them with a dollop of apricot preserves and some crushed almonds. Then, you'll fold the pastry strips to create a twisted shape, brush again with egg wash, and bake until golden and puffy. The result is a golden and flaky pastry that bursts with flavor with every bite. The tangy apricot preserves add just the right amount of sweetness, while the nutty almonds provide a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making these twists a hit among all age groups. Apart from the taste, the Apricot Almond Twists also score high on presentation. The twisted shape of the pastries creates a beautiful and impressive-looking treat that is sure to impress your guests. You can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness and garnish with some sliced almonds or fresh berries for a pop of color. Overall, the Apricot Almond Twists are a must-try recipe that is easy, delicious, and impressive-looking. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast bite, an afternoon snack, or a fancy dessert, these pastries are sure to hit the spot. Plus, they are perfect for sharing, so make sure to bake a big batch to satisfy everyone's cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 1 package (17.3 ounces) frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed
  • 1/2 cup apricot preserves
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds or almond meal
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each into 6 strips (12 strips total).
  3. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water until smooth.
  4. Using a pastry brush or your finger, brush a little of the egg wash along the edges of each pastry strip.
  5. Place a teaspoon of apricot preserves on the center of each strip, followed by a sprinkle of sliced almonds.
  6. Gently fold each strip in half, lengthwise, and press the edges together to seal.
  7. Twist each strip a few times, holding both ends, to form a twisted shape.
  8. Place the twisted pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
  9. Brush the pastries with the remaining egg wash, making sure to cover the tops and sides.
  10. Bake the pastries for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.
  11. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.
  12. Generously dust with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
  • Make sure that the puff pastry is fully thawed before cutting and filling.
  • Experiment with different flavors of preserves, such as raspberry, peach, or cherry.
  • You can use almond meal instead of sliced almonds for a finer texture.
  • Make sure to brush the pastries with plenty of egg wash to get that crispy and golden crust.
  • Serve the twists warm or at room temperature, with a cup of tea or coffee.
Apricot almond twists are a delicious and simple dessert that can be made with just a few ingredients. It's a perfect recipe to make for parties or special occasions, or even just as a treat for yourself. In this article, you'll find valuable tips to ensure your apricot almond twists turn out perfectly every time.

Tip 1: Choose Quality Ingredients

When making apricot almond twists, it's important to choose quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture. Look for fresh apricots with a bright orange color and firm texture. If fresh apricots are not available, you can use canned apricots, but be sure to drain them well before using. For the almond component, use fresh almonds or almond flour. Using fresh nuts will give your twists a pleasantly crunchy texture while almond flour will give your twists a finer, smoother texture.

Tip 2: Use the Right Pastry Dough

The choice of pastry dough can make or break your apricot almond twists. The traditional dough used for making twists is puff pastry, which is a flaky and buttery pastry. Puff pastry is perfect for apricot almond twists as it adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the apricots and the nuttiness of the almonds. You can either make the puff pastry from scratch or purchase it pre-made at your local grocery store.

Tip 3: Prepare the Apricots

Preparing the apricots is an important step in making apricot almond twists. To prepare the apricots, wash them thoroughly and remove the pits. If you're using fresh apricots, slice them thinly and set them aside. If you're using canned apricots, drain them well and cut them into small pieces before setting them aside.

Tip 4: Toast the Almonds

Toasting the almonds is a small but important step that can greatly enhance the flavor of your twists. Toasting the almonds brings out their natural nuttiness and gives them a nice crunch. To toast the almonds, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) and spread the almonds evenly on a baking sheet. Roast the almonds for about 10-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Let them cool and then chop them into small pieces.

Tip 5: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Rolling out the puff pastry is an essential step in making apricot almond twists. To roll out the pastry, dust your working surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking. Roll out the pastry into a thin rectangular shape, about 8-10 inches long and 5-6 inches wide.

Tip 6: Arrange the Apricots and Almonds on the Puff Pastry

Once the pastry has been rolled out, arrange the sliced apricots and chopped almonds on top of the pastry, leaving about 1 inch around the edges. Sprinkle some sugar over the apricots and almonds to give them a sweet flavor.

Tip 7: Fold and Seal the Pastry

After arranging the apricots and almonds, it's time to fold and seal the pastry. Carefully lift the edges of the pastry and fold them over the apricots and almonds, making sure to seal the edges well. Use a fork to press down and seal the edges of the pastry.

Tip 8: Egg Wash

Before baking, it's important to give your twists an egg wash. An egg wash is a mixture of beaten egg and water or milk, which is brushed onto the pastry surface to give it a shiny and golden appearance. To make an egg wash, simply mix one egg with a tablespoon of water or milk and whisk until well combined. Brush the egg wash over the entire surface of the pastry.

Tip 9: Bake to Perfection

Baking is the final step in making apricot almond twists. To bake, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and place your twists on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown and the filling is cooked through. Let the twists cool for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion

Apricot almond twists are a delightful dessert that can be made easily with simple ingredients. Following these tips will help you achieve the perfect twists every time. Remember to choose quality ingredients, prepare the apricots and almonds well, and use the right pastry dough. Don't forget to give your twists an egg wash and bake them to perfection. Enjoy your delicious apricot almond twists with family and friends!

Related Topics