Cinnamon and sugar palmiers are one of those irresistible treats that combine buttery, flaky pastry with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. These French pastries, often called “elephant ears” in some countries, are surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or serving them as a party treat, these palmiers will impress your guests with their crisp texture and delightful sweetness. Let’s dive into how you can make these delicious, elegant pastries from the comfort of your own kitchen.
What Are Cinnamon and Sugar Palmiers?
Cinnamon and sugar palmiers are small, delicate pastries made from puff pastry dough. They are rolled with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, then baked until golden brown and crispy. The result is a sweet, flaky treat that’s light yet satisfying. The name “palmier” comes from the French word for “palm tree” because of the shape of the pastry.
Palmiers have a rich history in French baking, and while they can be found in bakeries across the globe, making them at home brings a sense of accomplishment and joy. The light, airy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness of these pastries are why they remain a favorite for dessert or a mid-afternoon snack.
The Origin of Cinnamon and Sugar Palmiers
Cinnamon and sugar palmiers belong to a family of French pastries known as “puff pastry” treats. The origins of puff pastry can be traced back to the 17th century when it was invented by a French pastry chef, Claude Gellée, also known as “Le Lorrain.” The puff pastry dough is known for its flaky layers, which are achieved through a delicate process of folding and rolling dough and butter together multiple times.
While palmiers themselves are quite popular in French patisseries, the cinnamon and sugar version adds a simple yet effective twist. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and puff pastry has become a staple in many homes around the world, taking advantage of the ease and versatility of store-bought puff pastry.
Ingredients for Cinnamon and Sugar Palmiers
To make these sweet pastries at home, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Most of these items can be found in your kitchen, but don’t forget to use high-quality puff pastry for the best results.
Ingredients List
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed according to package directions)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided into two portions)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted, optional for extra richness)
While these are the basic ingredients, we’ll also discuss some variations to enhance the flavor profile of your palmiers.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Making cinnamon and sugar palmiers is incredibly straightforward, even for beginners. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have crispy, delicious pastries ready in no time.
Preparation
- Preheat Oven to 400°F (200°C)
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature for baking. - Line Baking Sheets with Parchment Paper
This helps prevent the palmiers from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup much easier. - Mix Cinnamon and Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir well to ensure they are evenly mixed. This cinnamon-sugar mixture will be spread over the puff pastry and give it that delicious sweetness and spice.
Assembly
- Prepare Your Work Surface
Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on a clean work surface. This will serve as the base for rolling out your puff pastry. - Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Take your thawed puff pastry sheet and place it on the sugared surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×10 inches in size. Try to make the dough as even as possible. - Add the Toppings
- If you’re using butter, brush the entire surface of the pastry with the melted butter. This will add richness and make the palmiers even more delicious.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pastry.
Shaping the Palmiers
- Shape the Palmiers
Start rolling the pastry from one long side toward the center. Do the same from the opposite side. Continue rolling both sides toward each other until they meet in the middle. You should have a tightly rolled-up pastry that resembles a scroll or a “double roll.”
Baking
- Slice the Roll into 1/2-inch Thick Slices
Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled-up pastry into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Make sure your knife is sharp to avoid crushing the layers of puff pastry. - Arrange the Palmiers on a Baking Sheet
Place the slices, cut-side down, on the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches between each one to give them space to puff up during baking. - Bake the Palmiers
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the palmiers are golden brown and crispy. After about 10 minutes, flip them over to ensure they bake evenly and turn golden on both sides. - Cool Completely
Let the palmiers cool on the baking sheet for the best texture. If you move them too soon, they might lose their crispiness.
Tips for Success
- Keep the Puff Pastry Cold
Work quickly and keep the pastry cold. If it becomes too warm, the butter in the pastry will start to melt, affecting the texture. If necessary, pop the pastry in the fridge for a few minutes to chill it. - Use a Sharp Knife for Slicing
A serrated knife or a sharp chef’s knife will help you slice the pastry without crushing the delicate layers. A sawing motion works best. - Avoid Overbaking
Keep an eye on the palmiers as they bake. They should turn a light golden brown, but avoid baking them too long, as this can cause them to become too dark or overly crisp. - Cool Before Storing
Allow the palmiers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This ensures they maintain their crispy texture.
Variations of Cinnamon and Sugar Palmiers
While the traditional cinnamon and sugar palmiers are delightful, here are a few variations you can try to mix things up:
Savory Palmiers
For a savory twist, replace the cinnamon and sugar with grated Parmesan cheese and your favorite herbs (such as rosemary or thyme). These make a wonderful appetizer or snack for a savory craving.
Chocolate Palmiers
If you love chocolate, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a chocolatey version. This adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the crisp pastry.
Nutty Palmiers
For an extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans before rolling the pastry. This variation gives a nice texture contrast and deepens the flavor.
FAQs about Cinnamon and Sugar Palmiers
Can I use homemade puff pastry for palmiers?
Yes, homemade puff pastry will work beautifully for this recipe. However, store-bought puff pastry is much more convenient and still produces delicious results.
Can I freeze the palmiers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the palmiers before baking them. Just arrange the slices on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. When ready to bake, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
How do I store leftover palmiers?
Store your palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For the best texture, enjoy them fresh, as they can lose some of their crispness over time.
Can I add other spices?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.
Conclusion
Cinnamon and sugar palmiers are the epitome of a simple yet elegant treat. Their flaky layers and the perfect balance of sweetness make them an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for an afternoon tea, a dinner party, or just a special snack, these pastries will impress anyone who tries them.
By following these straightforward instructions, you can master the art of making palmiers right at home. The variations you can create with just a few ingredients will ensure that you can enjoy these pastries in many different ways. Try the classic cinnamon-sugar version or get creative with chocolate or nuts for a unique flavor profile.
With just a little time and a few basic ingredients, you’ll be able to make these scrumptious pastries that are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, go ahead, preheat your oven, and get rolling with these delightful cinnamon and sugar palmiers!
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Cinnamon and Sugar Palmiers Recipe: A Delightful French Pastry
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 palmiers 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon and sugar palmiers are small, delicate pastries made from puff pastry dough. They are rolled with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, then baked until golden brown and crispy. The result is a sweet, flaky treat that’s light yet satisfying. The name “palmier” comes from the French word for “palm tree” because of the shape of the pastry.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed according to package directions)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted, optional for extra richness)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper
- Mix cinnamon sugar: Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl
Assembly
- Prepare work surface: Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on a clean work surface
- Roll out pastry: Place thawed puff pastry on the sugared surface and roll it into a 12×10 inch rectangle
- Add toppings:
- Brush with melted butter (if using)
- Sprinkle remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the entire surface
- Shape the palmiers:
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the pastry toward the center
- Repeat from the opposite side until both rolls meet in the middle
- You should have a double roll that looks like a scroll
Baking
- Slice: Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 1/2-inch thick slices
- Arrange: Place slices cut-side down on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart
- Bake: 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy
- Flip halfway: Turn palmiers over after 10 minutes for even browning
Notes
For an extra touch, drizzle the baked palmiers with a light glaze or dip one edge in melted chocolate for a fancier presentation. These pastries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 palmier
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: Low
Keywords: Cinnamon and Sugar Palmiers Recipe
