Pump Street Pain Aux Amandes 38% Review: A White Chocolate Pastry Worth Savoring

When it comes to artisan chocolate, few names command as much respect as Pump Street Chocolate. Known for their bean-to-bar craftsmanship and innovative flavor combinations, they've recently turned their attention to pastries. One standout is the Pain Aux Amandes 38%—a white chocolate creation that reimagines the classic almond croissant. In this review, we'll break down what makes this pastry so special, from its delicate layers to its rich, creamy filling.

White chocolate can sometimes be an afterthought in the pastry world, often too sweet or cloying. But Pump Street's 38% cocoa butter white chocolate brings a balanced sweetness and a silky mouthfeel that elevates the entire experience. Whether you're a die-hard dark chocolate fan or a pastry enthusiast looking for something new, this Pain Aux Amandes might just change your mind about white chocolate.

First Impressions: Packaging and Presentation

The Pain Aux Amandes 38% arrives in Pump Street's signature minimalist packaging—a simple, elegant box that lets the pastry speak for itself. Unwrapping it reveals a golden-brown, flaky exterior dusted with a light snowfall of icing sugar. The almond slices on top are toasted to perfection, adding a nutty aroma that promises depth.

The pastry itself is generously sized, with visible layers of buttery puff pastry. A gentle squeeze reveals a soft, yielding interior, hinting at the creamy white chocolate filling within. It's clear that this is a labor of love, made with the same attention to detail as their single-origin chocolate bars.

• Serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

Taste Test: The Flavor Profile

The first bite is a symphony of textures. The outer pastry shatters with a satisfying crunch, giving way to a tender, almost brioche-like interior. The white chocolate filling—made with Pump Street's own 38% cocoa butter—is neither too sweet nor too heavy. Instead, it offers a creamy, milky sweetness that complements the toasted almonds and buttery pastry.

What sets this Pain Aux Amandes apart is the balance. The white chocolate's natural vanilla notes meld seamlessly with the almond paste, creating a flavor that's both familiar and elevated. There's a subtle hint of sea salt that cuts through the richness, a signature touch from Pump Street that keeps each bite interesting. For comparison, their Madagascar & Sea Salt 55% bar shows a similar mastery of salt-sweet contrast.

• Pairs beautifully with a black coffee or an espresso to offset the sweetness.
• The 38% cocoa butter white chocolate is less sweet than standard white chocolate, making it more versatile.

Texture and Mouthfeel: A Pastry Lover's Dream

Texture is where this pastry truly shines. The outer layers are crisp and laminated, with dozens of paper-thin sheets that separate as you bite. Inside, the almond and white chocolate filling is smooth and almost custard-like, coating your palate without feeling greasy. The toasted almond slivers add a pleasant crunch that contrasts with the soft interior.

This is not a dry, crumbly pastry. The filling keeps everything moist and cohesive, while the pastry itself retains its structural integrity. It's the kind of treat that demands to be eaten slowly, savored with each bite. If you enjoy the texture of a classic almond croissant, this white chocolate version offers an even more luxurious mouthfeel.

• Warm it in a 150°C oven for 3-4 minutes to revive the crispness if not eaten fresh.

How It Compares to Other Pump Street Offerings

Pump Street is renowned for their chocolate bars, like the Cookie Chip 60% Mini Bar, which combines dark milk chocolate with crunchy cookie pieces. The Pain Aux Amandes 38% shares that same commitment to quality ingredients and balanced flavor. However, it occupies a unique niche as a ready-to-eat pastry, bridging the gap between their baking chocolate and their confectionery.

For those who prefer darker flavors, the 1 kg Bag - Dark Baking Pastilles - Ecuador 85% - Hacienda Victoria offers an intense, fruity chocolate perfect for baking. But the Pain Aux Amandes is a standalone indulgence—no baking required. It's a testament to Pump Street's versatility, proving they can excel in both chocolate making and pastry crafting.

• If you love the Pain Aux Amandes, try their other pastry offerings for similar quality.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

At its price point, the Pain Aux Amandes 38% is an investment, but one that pays off in pure enjoyment. The quality of ingredients—from the single-origin white chocolate to the hand-laminated pastry—is evident in every bite. It's a pastry that feels special, perfect for a weekend treat or a thoughtful gift for a chocolate lover.

While it may not replace your everyday croissant, it's a delightful departure from the norm. The balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and buttery richness is hard to beat. If you're a fan of Pump Street's chocolate bars, this pastry is a natural next step. It's a white chocolate pastry that even dark chocolate purists can appreciate.

• Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.

If you're ready to experience the artistry of Pump Street Chocolate beyond their bars, the Pain Aux Amandes 38% is a delicious place to start. For a similar treat that combines chocolate and texture, explore the Cookie Chip 60% Mini Bar—a perfect companion for your next tasting session.