Dutch Almond Paste-Filled Pastry Log (Banketstaaf)

Dutch Almond Paste-Filled Pastry Log (Banketstaaf)

'Banketstaaf' is a traditional Dutch treat served at Christmas time, a flaky puff pastry, dusted with powdered and a rich sugar almond paste center.
  • Preparation:
  • Cooking:
  • Total:
  • Serves: 8 persons

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Gather the ingredients and preheat the oven to 437 F / 225 C.
  2. Step 2

    Cut the ready-rolled puff pastry into a strip of approximately 4 1/2 x 15 inches (12 x 40 centimeters).
  3. Step 3

    Roll the Dutch almond paste into a log that is 1.1 inches (3 centimeters) shorter lengthways than the pastry.
  4. Step 4

    Place on the pastry. Wet the edges of the pastry with a pastry brush dipped in water.
  5. Step 5

    Fold in the short ends first and then fold over long bits and press at the seams.
  6. Step 6

    Carefully flip the pastry over so that the seam is at the bottom. Brush with the beaten egg.
  7. Step 7

    Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and place on a wire cooling rack.
  8. Step 8

    Heat the apricot jam in a microwave-safe container for a few seconds, so that it melts a little. Brush the still-warm banketstaaf with the apricot jam.
  9. Step 9

    Dust with confectioners' sugar. 
  10. Step 10

    Serve sliced with freshly brewed coffee.