Desserts > Pastries > Puff Pastry > Palmiers Recipe

Classic Palmiers Recipe

A simple yet elegant pastry made with puff pastry and sugar. These crispy, caramelized treats are perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet snack.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12-15 minutes
Servings
About 24 palmiers
Ingredients
  • 1 sheet (about 14 oz) Puff Pastry
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Optional: Cinnamon

Prepare Your Work Surface

Begin by lightly flouring a clean, flat surface. This will prevent the puff pastry from sticking.

Unfold the Puff Pastry

Carefully unfold the sheet of puff pastry onto the floured surface. If it's very cold, let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to work with.

Coat with Sugar

Evenly sprinkle half of the granulated sugar over the entire surface of the puff pastry. If you're using cinnamon, mix it with the sugar before sprinkling.

Roll the Pastry

Using a rolling pin, gently roll the sugar into the puff pastry. This helps it adhere and caramelize during baking. Apply even pressure to avoid tearing the dough.

Fold to the Center

Fold one side of the puff pastry towards the center, covering about halfway. Repeat with the other side, so the two folds meet in the middle.

Fold Again

Fold one of the folded sides over the other, creating a log shape. This should result in four layers of pastry.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to slice and helps prevent the palmiers from losing their shape during baking.

Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Slice the Palmiers

Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. Space them about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet, as they will spread during baking.

Sugar the Tops

Sprinkle the remaining granulated sugar evenly over the top of the palmiers.

Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized. Flip the palmiers halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning on both sides. Watch them closely, as they can burn quickly.

Cool & Serve

Remove the palmiers from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. They will crisp up as they cool.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 100g of product)

Note: This is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Calories: 500-550
Fat: 30-35g
Saturated Fat: 18-22g
Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Sugar: 30-40g
Protein: 4-6g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Palmiers are a high-calorie, high-sugar treat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider using a lower-sugar substitute or reducing the amount of sugar used in the recipe to decrease the sugar content. For a slightly healthier version, consider using whole wheat puff pastry (if available) for added fiber.

FAQ

  • Can I use homemade puff pastry?

    Yes, homemade puff pastry will result in even better palmiers! Just make sure it's well-chilled before slicing.
  • Can I add other flavorings?

    Absolutely! Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, lemon zest, or even a little cocoa powder to the sugar mixture.
  • How do I store palmiers?

    Store cooled palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best consumed within a few days, as they may lose some of their crispness over time.
  • Why are my palmiers soggy?

    Soggy palmiers are often due to not baking them long enough or at a high enough temperature. Ensure your oven is properly preheated and bake until they are a deep golden brown and the sugar is caramelized.