Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Palmier Cookies are perfect when you want something elegant yet easy. They require only two main ingredients, come together quickly, and deliver bakery-level results without the fuss. They’re ideal for afternoon tea, holiday platters, or a light dessert after dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen

  • Granulated sugar

  • Optional: cinnamon, vanilla sugar, or coarse sugar for extra flavor and texture

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Sprinkle a clean work surface generously with sugar.

  3. Place puff pastry sheet on the sugared surface and sprinkle more sugar on top.

  4. Roll lightly with a rolling pin to press the sugar into the dough.

  5. Fold the left and right sides of the pastry toward the center so they meet in the middle.

  6. Fold each side toward the center again, then fold one half over the other to form a log.

  7. Slice into ¼-inch thick pieces and place cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

  8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and caramelized.

  9. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Servings and timing

Makes about 20 cookies.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers: Mix sugar with cinnamon before sprinkling.

  • Savory Version: Replace sugar with grated Parmesan and herbs.

  • Chocolate-Dipped: Dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate.

  • Jam-Filled: Spread a thin layer of fruit jam before folding.

  • Nutty Twist: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts with the sugar.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To crisp them up, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–4 minutes.
Freezing is not recommended once baked, but unbaked slices can be frozen and baked directly from frozen.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes, homemade works beautifully if you have the time.

Do I have to flip them during baking?

Flipping helps them caramelize evenly, but it’s optional.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, shape and slice the cookies, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

Can I use brown sugar?

Yes, but it will give a deeper, molasses-like flavor.

Why are my palmiers not crispy?

They may need a few more minutes in the oven or to cool completely before storing.

Can I add flavor extracts?

Yes, brush the pastry lightly with vanilla or almond extract before adding sugar.

Are palmiers vegan?

Yes, if you use vegan puff pastry.

Can I make mini palmiers?

Yes, simply use smaller cuts of puff pastry and reduce baking time.

What’s the best way to serve them?

They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or ice cream.

Can I freeze baked palmiers?

It’s not ideal as they lose crispness, but reheating in the oven can help restore texture.

Conclusion

Palmier Cookies are a timeless pastry that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat. With their buttery layers and sweet crunch, they’re sure to impress guests and satisfy your own sweet cravings


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Palmier Cookies

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Palmier Cookies, also known as elephant ears or French hearts, are light, crisp pastries made from puff pastry and sugar. Their signature swirl shape and caramelized crunch make them a bakery-worthy treat that’s incredibly simple to prepare.

  • Author: Catherine
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: About 20 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed if frozen
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • Optional: 1 tsp cinnamon, vanilla sugar, or coarse sugar for extra flavor/texture

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Generously sprinkle sugar over a clean work surface.
  3. Place puff pastry sheet on top and sprinkle more sugar evenly over the surface.
  4. Roll lightly with a rolling pin to press the sugar into the dough.
  5. Fold the left and right sides of the pastry toward the center so they meet in the middle.
  6. Fold each side toward the center again, then fold one half over the other to form a log.
  7. Slice into 1/4-inch thick pieces and arrange cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and caramelized.
  9. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

Mix sugar with cinnamon for a warm, spiced version.Swap sugar for Parmesan and herbs for a savory take.Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate for extra indulgence.Spread a thin layer of jam before folding for a fruity variation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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