Classic French Palmiers Recipe: Sweet, Crunchy Delights

Ingredients

1 cup of granulated sugar
2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
1/4 teaspoon of fine salt

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Spread half of the sugar on a clean, flat surface and unfold the puff pastry over the sugar.
Sprinkle the rest of the sugar and the salt over the pastry. Use a rolling pin to press the sugar into the puff pastry.
Fold the sides of the pastry towards the center so they go halfway to the middle. Fold them again so the two folds meet exactly at the middle of the dough, then fold one half over the other half as if closing a book. You should have 6 layers.
Slice the dough into 1/2-inch slices and place the slices cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until caramelized and brown. Then, flip over the palmiers and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until caramelized on the other side.
Finally, allow the baked palmiers to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

Rolling pin - Used for rolling out the puff pastry and pressing the sugar into it.
Baking sheet - A flat sheet pan used for baking the palmiers.
Parchment paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Wire rack - Used for cooling the baked palmiers and allowing air to circulate, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Recipe variations

Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or other spices to the sugar before spreading it on the puff pastry.
Using flavored sugars, such as vanilla sugar or lavender sugar, for a unique twist.
Adding a layer of chocolate or Nutella spread on the puff pastry before folding and slicing.
Incorporating finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the sugar mixture for added crunch and flavor.
Experimenting with different types of puff pastry, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, for dietary preferences or restrictions.
Using different shapes for the palmiers, such as triangles or pinwheels, for a visually appealing presentation.
Drizzling a glaze or icing over the baked palmiers, made from powdered sugar and a liquid like lemon juice or milk, for added sweetness.
Adding a savory twist by sprinkling grated cheese and herbs such as rosemary or thyme before folding and baking the palmiers.
Creating a fruit-filled variation by spreading a layer of preserves or fruit compote on the puff pastry before folding and slicing.

Recipe overview

Palmiers are a classic French pastry that are light, crisp, and incredibly delicious. Made with just three simple ingredients - sugar, puff pastry, and a hint of salt - they are surprisingly easy to prepare at home. In this recipe, we'll guide you through the process of making your own palmiers. We'll start by rolling out the pastry, sprinkling it with sugar and salt, and then folding it in a specific manner to give the pastries their distinctive palm leaf shape. After a quick bake in the oven, they emerge caramelized and golden brown, ready to be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you're new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a fun and rewarding project. Despite their simplicity, palmiers are always a hit and are sure to impress your guests. Let's start baking!

Common questions

Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe? Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe. Make sure to thaw it according to the package instructions before using.
How can I store the palmiers? Once completely cooled, you can store the palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the palmiers? Yes, you can freeze the palmiers. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I add other flavors or fillings to the palmiers? Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors and fillings such as cinnamon sugar, Nutella, chocolate, or even savory options like cheese and herbs. Just make sure to sprinkle or spread the additional ingredients on the puff pastry before folding and slicing.
Can I make palmiers ahead of time? Yes, you can make the palmiers ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, fold, and slice them, then refrigerate on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, simply bake as directed.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking sheet - Used for baking the palmiers in the oven.
Parchment paper - Placed on the baking sheet to prevent the palmiers from sticking.
Rolling pin - Used to press the sugar into the puff pastry and help with rolling the dough.
Wire rack - Used for cooling the baked palmiers.
Knife - Used to slice the dough into palmier shapes before baking.

Origin stories

Palmiers, also known as elephant ears, are a classic French pastry. Their name comes from their distinct shape that resembles a palm leaf, or an elephant's ear. The simple yet enchanting beauty of this pastry lies in its simplicity and elegance, using only puff pastry, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Born out of the creativity and skill of French bakers, palmiers are a testament to the adage that sometimes less is more. Despite their fancy appearance, they are surprisingly easy to make, making them a popular choice for both professional and home bakers alike. The art of making palmiers is a delicate dance between the crisp sugar crust and the soft, flaky layers of the puff pastry - a true symphony of textures and flavors that is quintessentially French.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.