Ree’s Bear Claws Pastry Recipe: A Delicious Treat

If you’re looking for a delightful pastry that combines flaky layers with a sweet almond filling, look no further than Ree Drummond’s Bear Claws. This delicious treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of the day. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, Ree’s Bear Claws are sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we’ll explore the bear claws, provide a detailed recipe, and share tips for making this delightful pastry at home.

Ree’s Bear Claws Pastry Recipe

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg

For the Almond Filling:

• 1/2 cup almond paste
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
4. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Make the Almond Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond paste, granulated sugar, softened butter, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Use a fork or a hand mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Bear Claws

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cut the Dough: Cut the dough into two equal rectangles. Spread half of the almond filling down the center of each rectangle, leaving about an inch of space on the edges.
4. Shape the Bear Claws: Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to make slits along the top of the dough, creating the “claws.” Gently pull the slits apart to create a bear claw shape.
5. Add Toppings: Place the bear claws on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle sliced almonds over the top for added texture and flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Bear Claws

1. Bake: Bake the bear claws in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
2. Cool: Once baked, remove the bear claws from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

1. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be pour able but not too runny.

Step 6: Glaze the Bear Claws

1. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the bear claws have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or a piping bag for a more decorative touch. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Bear Claws

1. Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and milk are cold when making the dough. This helps create a flaky texture in the pastry.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the dough, be careful not to overwork it. Overmixing can lead to tough pastries instead of the desired flaky texture.
3. Experiment with Fillings: While almond filling is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fillings such as chocolate, fruit preserves, or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Assemble the bear claws and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for brunch gatherings.
5. Serve Warm: Bear claws are best enjoyed warm, so consider serving them fresh out of the oven or reheating them slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch: Serve bear claws alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee for a delightful brunch spread.
• Afternoon Tea: Pair them with a selection of teas for a charming afternoon tea experience.
• Dessert: Enjoy them as a sweet treat after dinner, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Gift Giving: Wrap bear claws in decorative packaging to give as a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays or special occasions.

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