How to Make Banket: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Pastry

Banket, the iconic Dutch pastry filled with almond paste, is a delightful treat that brings a taste of the Netherlands to your kitchen. Imagine the aroma of buttery pastry and sweet almond filling wafting through your home, and the joy of sharing a slice of this traditional delicacy with loved ones. In this guide, we’ll unlock the secrets to creating your own beautiful and delicious banket, perfect for special occasions or a cozy afternoon treat.

What You’ll Need to Bake Up Delicious Banket

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks, 226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (100g) almond paste
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg white
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk

Optional: Pearl sugar or sliced almonds for decorating

Equipment:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife

Let’s Get Baking!

Making the Pastry Dough:

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, sugar, and ice water. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix!
4. Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).

Preparing the Almond Filling:

1. Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the almond paste, sugar, egg white, and almond extract.
2. Beat until smooth: Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

Assembling and Baking the Banket:

1. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 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 12 inches long and 8 inches wide.
3. Spread the filling: Spread the almond filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
4. Fold and seal: Fold the longer sides of the dough over the filling to meet in the middle. Press gently to seal.
5. Transfer to baking sheet: Carefully transfer the banket to the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
6. Score and brush: Using a sharp knife, make diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart across the top of the banket. Brush the top with the egg wash.
7. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If the banket starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
8. Cool and serve: Let the banket cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Banket dough rolled out and ready to be filled.

Tips for Banket Baking Success:

• Use cold ingredients: Cold butter is essential for creating flaky pastry. Keep the dough chilled throughout the process to prevent the butter from melting and making the pastry tough.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing develops gluten, which can result in a chewy, rather than flaky, pastry.
• Customize your filling: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the almond filling for a flavor twist.
• Get creative with toppings: Sprinkle the banket with pearl sugar or sliced almonds before baking for added texture and visual appeal.

Banket baking in the oven.

FAQs About Making Banket:

Can I freeze banket dough?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked banket dough for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before filling and baking.

What can I use instead of almond paste?

If you don’t have almond paste, you can substitute it with an equal amount of marzipan.

How do I store leftover banket?

Store leftover banket in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

A Taste of Tradition

Baking banket is a rewarding experience that connects you to centuries of Dutch culinary tradition. With this step-by-step guide and helpful tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a banket that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Share your baking triumph with family and friends and savor the warm feeling of homemade goodness.

Don’t forget to share your banket creations with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience making this classic Dutch pastry. Happy baking!