Bear claw pastries are a beloved breakfast treat and afternoon snack that have delighted pastry enthusiasts for decades. These sweet, almond-flavored delicacies are shaped to resemble a bear’s paw, complete with distinct “claws” formed by slits in the dough. A typical bear claw pastry contains 500 to 527 calories, with most of its energy coming from carbohydrates and fats.

Bear claws originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, gaining popularity in areas with large Scandinavian populations. The pastry’s unique shape and rich almond filling quickly made it a staple in American bakeries and cafes. Often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, bear claws have become a go-to choice for those seeking an indulgent brunch option or a satisfying pastry to accompany their morning routine.

While bear claws are traditionally filled with almond paste, some variations incorporate other flavors such as apple or cherry. The pastry’s exterior is typically flaky and golden-brown, providing a delightful contrast to the sweet, dense filling inside. Whether enjoyed as a special weekend treat or an occasional indulgence, bear claw pastries continue to captivate taste buds with their distinctive appearance and comforting flavors.

History and Origin

Bear claw pastries emerged in the early 20th century as a delightful fusion of American and Danish baking traditions. Their unique shape and sweet filling quickly captured the hearts of pastry lovers across the United States.

Evolution of the Bear Claw

The bear claw pastry first appeared in California around 1914. A German bakery in Sacramento advertised these treats for five cents each, marking their early commercial presence.

Danish immigrants likely influenced the creation of bear claws. The pastries share similarities with Danish kamme, meaning “combs” in English.

Bear claws gained widespread popularity in mid-20th century America, especially in regions with significant Scandinavian populations. Bakeries and cafes often paired them with coffee or tea.

The distinctive claw-like shape became a hallmark of these pastries. In 1950, James Fennell invented a specialized bear claw cutter, facilitating their production.

Today, bear claws remain a beloved staple in American bakeries. Their sweet almond filling and flaky texture continue to delight pastry enthusiasts across the country.

Types of Bear Claw Pastries

Bear claw pastries come in various forms, with different fillings and flavors to satisfy diverse palates. The classic almond bear claw remains a beloved favorite, while creative variations offer exciting new taste experiences.

Classic Almond Bear Claw

The traditional bear claw pastry features a rich almond filling encased in flaky puff pastry. This nutty filling combines ground almonds, sugar, and butter to create a smooth, sweet paste. The pastry is carefully shaped to resemble a bear’s paw, with distinct “claws” formed by making small cuts along one edge.

Bakers fold the dough over the almond filling and crimp the edges to seal in the delicious center. The bear claw is then baked until golden brown, resulting in a crisp exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Some recipes call for a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing to enhance the sweetness.

Variations with Different Fillings

While almond remains the most popular, bear claws can be made with a variety of sweet fillings. Fruit-based options like apple, cherry, or apricot offer a tangy contrast to the buttery pastry. Chocolate lovers might enjoy a rich cocoa filling, sometimes paired with nuts for added texture.

Some bakers experiment with savory fillings, creating unique breakfast pastries. Ham and cheese or spinach and feta bear claws provide a delightful twist on the classic sweet treat. Cream cheese fillings, sometimes flavored with vanilla or citrus zest, offer a creamy alternative to the traditional almond paste.

These variations maintain the iconic bear claw shape while introducing new flavors to suit different tastes and occasions.

Ingredients

Bear claw pastries require a combination of basic baking ingredients and specialty items to achieve their distinctive flavor and texture. The dough and filling components work together to create the pastry’s signature taste and appearance.

Essential Components

The foundation of bear claw pastries is puff pastry or Danish dough. This requires all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, salt, and active dry yeast. For the filling, almond paste is crucial, often mixed with sugar and egg to create a smooth consistency. Sliced almonds are used for decoration and added crunch.

Milk is essential for brushing the pastry before baking, giving it a golden color. Powdered sugar or confectioners’ sugar is used for dusting the finished pastries. Some recipes incorporate cinnamon for extra flavor in the filling.

Substitutes and Alternatives

For those with dietary restrictions, almond flour can replace some of the all-purpose flour to increase the almond flavor and reduce gluten content. Yogurt can substitute for milk in the dough or as a brushing agent before baking.

Granulated sugar can be used instead of powdered sugar for a different texture on top. For a dairy-free version, plant-based milk and vegan butter alternatives work well. Almond extract can enhance the almond flavor if almond paste is unavailable.

Salted butter can replace unsalted butter and salt in the recipe. For egg allergies, commercial egg replacers or aquafaba (chickpea water) can be used as a binding agent in the filling.

Baking Techniques

Creating the perfect bear claw pastry requires mastering several key baking techniques. From preparing the dough to achieving a golden-brown finish, each step is crucial for producing a delicious and visually appealing pastry.

Preparing the Dough

Puff pastry forms the foundation of a bear claw. Start with high-quality frozen puff pastry for convenience. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight. On a lightly floured surface, roll the pastry into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick.

Cut the dough into smaller rectangles, typically 4×6 inches. Place a spoonful of almond cream or sweet filling in the center of each rectangle. Fold the dough over the filling, leaving a small border for the “claws.”

Shaping the Bear Claw

To create the distinctive bear claw shape, use a sharp knife to make 4-5 cuts along the folded edge of the pastry. These cuts should be about 3/4-inch deep and spaced evenly. Gently separate the cuts to form the “claws.”

Curve the pastry slightly to resemble a paw shape. Place the shaped bear claws on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are spaced at least 2 inches apart to allow for expansion during baking.

Applying the Egg Wash

An egg wash gives bear claws their characteristic shiny, golden-brown appearance. In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with a tablespoon of water or milk. Using a pastry brush, gently apply the egg wash to the surface of each bear claw.

Be careful not to let excess egg wash pool around the base of the pastry, as this can prevent proper rising. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle sliced almonds or coarse sugar on top of the egg wash.

Baking to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking sheet with the prepared bear claws in the center rack of the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.

Keep a close eye on the bear claws during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Serving and Presentation

Bear claw pastries offer various options for enhancing their visual appeal and taste. Proper presentation can elevate these treats from simple bakery items to eye-catching desserts.

Topping and Decoration

Bear claws often feature a dusting of powdered sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness and visual contrast. Some bakers opt for coarse sugar sprinkled on top before baking, creating a pleasing crunch and sparkle.

Sliced almonds are a classic decoration, reinforcing the pastry’s nutty flavor profile. These can be arranged in neat rows or scattered randomly for a rustic look.

Icing drizzles are another popular embellishment. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can be applied in thin lines or swirls across the pastry’s surface.

Plating Suggestions

For individual servings, place a bear claw on a small dessert plate or saucer. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can complement the pastry’s flavors.

In cafes or bakeries, bear claws are often displayed in glass cases. Arrange them in a single layer on a tray lined with parchment paper for an attractive presentation.

For brunch settings, serve bear claws on a tiered dessert stand alongside other pastries. This creates an inviting display and allows guests to easily select their preferred treats.

Consider pairing bear claws with fresh berries or sliced fruit for a pop of color and added freshness. A small ramekin of warm almond cream sauce can also enhance the serving experience.

Pairing and Accompaniments

Bear claw pastries pair well with various beverages and side dishes that complement their sweet almond flavor and flaky texture. The right pairings can enhance the overall enjoyment of this popular pastry.

Beverage Pairings

Coffee is a classic choice to accompany bear claws. A rich, medium-roast coffee balances the pastry’s sweetness and brings out its nutty notes. For those who prefer tea, a robust black tea like English Breakfast or Earl Grey works well.

Fruit-based beverages offer a refreshing contrast. Apple juice or fresh-squeezed orange juice can cut through the richness of the pastry. For a more indulgent option, hot chocolate with a dollop of whipped cream pairs nicely with the almond filling.

Iced beverages are also suitable, especially on warm days. An iced latte or cold brew coffee can be particularly refreshing alongside a bear claw.

Side Dishes

Fresh fruit makes an excellent side dish for bear claws. Berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a tart contrast to the sweet pastry. Sliced apples or pears can also complement the almond flavors.

A small portion of vanilla yogurt or Greek yogurt can add a creamy element to balance the pastry’s texture. For a more substantial pairing, consider a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, which offers a savory counterpoint to the sweet bear claw.

For brunch settings, scrambled eggs or a small omelet can turn the bear claw into part of a more complete meal. The protein helps balance the carbohydrates in the pastry.

Storage and Freshness

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and taste of bear claw pastries. Keeping them fresh ensures the best eating experience, whether enjoying them immediately or saving for later.

Short-Term Storage

Bear claws are best consumed fresh on the day of purchase or baking. For short-term storage, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. This method preserves their texture and flavor for 1-2 days. Line the container with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

Avoid refrigerating bear claws, as cold temperatures can dry out the pastry and alter its texture. If you must refrigerate, wrap each pastry individually in plastic wrap before placing in an airtight container. Allow them to come to room temperature before eating.

Extending Freshness

For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Wrap each bear claw tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track freshness.

To thaw, remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. For best results, reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

To revive slightly stale bear claws, warm them in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes. This can help restore some of their original texture and aroma.

Home Baking

Creating bear claw pastries at home allows bakers to customize flavors and enjoy fresh-from-the-oven treats. The process involves making flaky dough, preparing almond filling, and shaping the iconic claw design.

Classic Bear Claw Recipe

To make bear claws, start with a rich, buttery dough. Mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add milk and eggs, then knead until smooth.

Roll the dough into a rectangle and fold it like a letter. Chill for 30 minutes. Repeat this process twice more to create flaky layers.

For the filling, combine ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites. Roll out the chilled dough and spread the almond mixture in a strip down the center.

Fold the dough over the filling and cut slits along one side to form the “claws”. Shape into a curve and brush with egg wash.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Drizzle with icing for a sweet finish.

Making Homemade Almond Paste

Homemade almond paste enhances bear claw pastries with fresh flavor. Begin by blanching almonds in boiling water for one minute, then removing the skins.

Grind the almonds in a food processor until they form a fine meal. Add powdered sugar and process until well combined.

Mix in egg white and almond extract. Blend until the mixture forms a smooth, pliable paste.

If the paste is too dry, add a few drops of water. If it’s too wet, incorporate more powdered sugar.

Store the almond paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week, ready for use in bear claws or other pastries.

Health and Nutrition

Bear claw pastries pack a significant caloric punch and contain various macronutrients. Their nutritional profile raises important considerations for those with dietary restrictions or health goals.

Calorie Content

A typical bear claw pastry contains between 500 to 550 calories. This represents about 25% of the daily calorie intake for an average adult on a 2000-calorie diet.

The macronutrient breakdown varies slightly between sources, but generally falls within these ranges:

• Carbohydrates: 35-51%
• Fat: 41-58%
• Protein: 7-8%

These pastries are notably high in fat content, with some versions deriving up to 58% of their calories from fat.

Dietary Considerations

Bear claws are not suitable for individuals following gluten-free diets due to their wheat flour base. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid these pastries.

The high calorie and fat content make bear claws a challenge for people managing their weight or cardiovascular health. Individuals on low-carb diets may find them difficult to fit into their meal plans.

Some bakeries offer modified versions with reduced sugar or fat, but these alterations can affect taste and texture. Consumers with specific dietary needs should inquire about ingredients and nutritional information before indulging.