Cinnamon palmiers, also known as elephant ears or palm leaves, are a delightful pastry with a crispy, caramelized exterior and a delicately sweet, buttery flavor. These treats are surprisingly easy to make with just a few ingredients and are sure to impress your family and friends. Imagine biting into a warm palmier, the crispy layers shattering with a satisfying crunch, releasing the aroma of cinnamon and sugar – pure bliss! Let’s dive into the simple steps of making these delightful cookies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a batch of these irresistible treats, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional: A pinch of salt can enhance the flavors. Some recipes also call for a teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small bowl
- Pastry brush
- Rolling pin (optional, if your puff pastry needs to be rolled out)
Let’s Make Cinnamon Palmiers!
Step 1: Preparing the Puff Pastry
- If you’re using frozen puff pastry, make sure it’s thawed completely in the refrigerator.
- Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking.
- Gently unfold the puff pastry sheet onto the floured surface.
- Use a rolling pin to even out the pastry if needed.
Step 2: Creating the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- In the small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Mix well to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assembling the Palmiers
- Brush the entire surface of the puff pastry with the egg yolk and water mixture. This will help the sugar adhere and create a beautiful golden brown color while baking.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the puff pastry, ensuring it reaches all edges.
- Gently press the sugar into the dough.
Step 4: Rolling and Shaping
Now comes the fun part – shaping the palmiers:
- Starting from one of the long sides of the puff pastry, tightly roll the dough towards the center until you reach the middle.
- Repeat from the other long side, rolling the dough tightly towards the center until the two rolls meet in the middle.
- Gently press the two rolls together.
Step 5: Slicing and Baking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into ½-inch thick pieces.
- Place the slices cut-side down onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each palmier.
Step 6: Baking to Perfection
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized.
- Keep a close eye on them, as they can brown quickly!
Step 7: Cooling and Enjoying
- Once baked, remove the palmiers from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your warm, crispy, and utterly delicious cinnamon palmiers!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Palmiers
- For extra crispiness: Bake the palmiers for a few more minutes, but watch them closely to prevent burning.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Overworking the puff pastry can make it tough.
- Experiment with flavors: Try adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Storage: Store leftover palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
FAQs About Making Cinnamon Palmiers
Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s completely thawed before using.
Why are my palmiers not crispy?
If your palmiers aren’t crispy, they might not have baked long enough. Make sure your oven is at the correct temperature and bake them for a few more minutes, checking frequently.
Can I freeze cinnamon palmiers?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked palmiers for up to 2 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
A Final Word
Making cinnamon palmiers is easier than you think. With a handful of pantry staples and these simple instructions, you’ll be enjoying these delightful treats in no time. For another delicious pastry variation, check out our recipe for classic palmiers, or explore the delightful world of elephant ear cookies. Happy baking!
