Dutch Letters
Dutch Letters are flaky, almond-filled pastries with a rich, sweet flavor, perfect for almond lovers and ideal for special occasions or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter and flour.
- Stir in water and mix well.
- Chill the dough overnight or longer.
- Beat almond paste with an electric mixer until smooth.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla to the almond paste and mix well.
- Chill the filling.
- Divide the dough and filling into 14 equal parts.
- Roll each dough portion into a 14 x 4-inch strip.
- Spread a portion of filling down the center of each dough strip.
- Fold one side of the dough over the filling, then fold the other side over, pinching the ends shut.
- Place the pastries on a greased cookie sheet with seams on the bottom.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg whites and sprinkle sugar on top.
- Prick each pastry with a fork every 2 inches to allow steam to escape.
- Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the best texture for your Dutch Letters, make sure to chill the dough adequately, as this helps it maintain its shape during baking. If you don't have almond paste, you can substitute with marzipan, but be aware it may alter the flavor slightly. Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the filling for an extra layer of warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dutch Letters warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Chocolate Mousse Cups for a festive dessert spread. Consider offering a fruit compote or whipped cream on the side to enhance the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dutch Letters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them; just wrap each pastry individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, bake them at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dutch Letters contains roughly 1664 calories, with 22g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut paste?
Yes, you can substitute almond paste with hazelnut or pistachio paste for a unique twist on the flavor. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and texture of the filling may change slightly, so adjust the sugar if necessary.
How do I know when the pastries are done baking?
The pastries are done when they are golden brown on top and slightly firm to the touch. They should also have a pleasant aroma. If you're unsure, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating that the filling has set.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just remember to let the dough sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before rolling it out, which will make it easier to work with.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).