Paula'S Maids Of Honor
Delightful Maids Of Honor pastries featuring a tender pastry shell filled with raspberry jam and almond-flavored filling, topped with glaze and a cherry, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat together butter and sugar.
- Add egg, almond flavor, flour, and almonds; beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Mix well the pastry ingredients.
- Use plenty of flour to roll out the dough.
- Cut circles about 3 inches in diameter and place in a well-greased cupcake pan.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon raspberry jam in each pastry shell, then top with 1 teaspoon of almond mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
- Cool the pastries.
- Glaze with powdered sugar and milk.
- Top with a cherry.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using cold butter instead of shortening, or try a combination of both for richness. You can substitute almond flavor with vanilla extract if preferred. Ensure the dough isn't overworked for the best texture. When rolling out the dough, dust with additional flour to prevent sticking. For a twist, experiment with different jams like apricot or cherry.
Serving Suggestions
These pastries make an excellent dessert or tea-time treat. Serve them alongside a cup of Raspberry Coffee for a delightful pairing. For added elegance, dust with extra powdered sugar before serving and consider garnishing with fresh berries. They also pair nicely with a light fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. For reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paula'S Maids Of Honor contains roughly 213 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 20g fat.
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 make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out, as it will be easier to handle when slightly softened.
What can I use instead of almond flavoring?
If you're looking for alternatives to almond flavoring, vanilla extract is a great substitute that will still provide a lovely aroma and taste. You could also try a hint of coconut extract for a tropical twist or even lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Can I freeze the pastries?
Yes, you can freeze the pastries before baking. Assemble them in the cupcake pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
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).