Simple and Delicious Pecan Plait Recipe UK
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Nuts
Servings
6
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Calories
390
Made with flaky ready-rolled puff pastry, a creamy frangipane-style almond filling, crunchy pecans, and the deep, luxurious taste of Whitakers dark chocolate, this UK recipe is ideal for brunches, afternoon tea, or a special dessert.
It serves 6, takes just 20 minutes to prep, and bakes in 20–25 minutes.
Each plait is around 390 calories, striking a perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity.
Great for hosting guests or enjoying a sweet moment, this plait’s golden, plaited pastry and tasty filling will impress every time.
Ingredients
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1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry (320g)
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100g pecans, roughly chopped
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50g Whitakers dark chocolate
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50g light brown soft sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
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2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for brushing after baking)
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50g unsalted butter, softened
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40g icing sugar
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1 medium egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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60g ground almonds
For the filling:
Directions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6 and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Make the almond filling
In a bowl, beat the softened butter and icing sugar together.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and ground almonds.
Mix until smooth – this forms your frangipane-style base.
Prepare the pastry
Unroll the puff pastry onto your lined tray.
Lightly score into thirds lengthways (don’t cut through), so you have a centre panel and two outer flaps.
Add the filling
Spread the almond filling down the centre third of the pastry, leaving a small border at the top and bottom.
Sprinkle over the chopped pecans, chocolate, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Create the plait
Using a sharp knife, cut diagonal strips (about 2cm wide) into the outer thirds of the pastry.
Fold the top and bottom ends over the filling, then alternate strips from each side to form a plait.
Bake
Brush the pastry with beaten egg and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed up.
Finish
Brush with maple syrup or honey for a glossy finish (optional).
Allow to cool slightly before slicing.
Recipe Notes
More Delicious Recipes:
If you have any questions about how to make this recipe, please post a comment below and we will get back to you.
Servings: The recipe typically yields 6 delicious portions of pecan plait.
Calories per serving: 390 calories.
Remember: Please tag #whitakerschocolates with photos of your homemade pecan-flavoured pastry plait.
What is a Plait in Baking?
In baking, a plait refers to a pastry or bread shaped by weaving or braiding strips of dough to create an attractive, woven appearance.
This technique is often used with puff pastry, as in this Pecan Plait recipe, or with enriched doughs like challah or brioche.
To form a plait, the dough is typically rolled out, filled, and then cut into strips along the sides.
These strips are folded alternately over the filling from each side, creating a braided look.
The result is a visually appealing, golden pastry or bread with a flaky or soft texture, depending on the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve it warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful brunch or afternoon tea.
For a dessert option, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich Whitakers dark chocolate and nutty pecans.
Slice into smaller portions for an elegant addition to a party spread or a festive gathering.
For extra flair, dust with icing sugar or drizzle with melted Whitakers dark chocolate before serving.
It’s also great as a make-ahead treat for lazy weekends or last-minute guests—just reheat gently in the oven to restore its flaky, golden texture.
Storing Your Homemade Pecan Plait
To keep your homemade plait fresh and flaky, store it properly.
Once cooled, place the plait in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in cling film to prevent it from drying out.
It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the plait for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s well-sealed to avoid absorbing fridge odours.
To serve, bring to room temperature or gently reheat in the oven at 150°C (130°C fan) for 8–10 minutes to restore its crisp, golden texture.
For gifting, wrap the plait securely in cellophane or place in a decorative tin to maintain its Whitakers dark chocolate and pecan flavours.
Avoid storing in humid or warm conditions to keep the pastry from softening.
