Cinnamon Palmiers

Light and flaky, Cinnamon Palmiers are delightful French cookies that bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. With their irresistible cinnamon sugar coating, these pastries are perfect for tea time, parties, or simply as a sweet treat at home. Surprisingly easy to make, they impress with their crispy texture and rich flavor, making them a must-try for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for any gathering—serve them at brunch, as dessert, or pack them for a picnic!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a delightful sweetness that pairs well with coffee or tea.
• Impressive Appearance: The unique shape and golden color make these palmiers look like they came straight from a French patisserie.
• Adaptable Recipe: Feel free to experiment with different spices or fillings to create your own twist on this classic!

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you will need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out the pastry evenly, ensuring the cinnamon sugar adheres well for deliciously crispy cookies.
• Baking tray: A sturdy baking tray ensures even heat distribution while baking your Cinnamon Palmiers.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

Light, flaky pastry cookies coated in cinnamon sugar and baked until golden and crispy. These French treats are surprisingly easy to make.

For the Pastry

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (24cm/10-inch square).

For the Cinnamon Sugar

• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

How to Make Cinnamon Palmiers

Step 1: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon thoroughly. This mixture will add the signature flavor to your palmiers.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over one surface of the thawed puff pastry. Use a rolling pin to press it into the pastry gently.

Step 3: Flip and Repeat

Carefully flip the pastry over. Sprinkle another 2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar on this side, repeating the rolling process to embed it into the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Pastry

Fold each long edge of the pastry halfway toward the center. Roll tightly to flatten slightly.

Step 5: Create Layers

Fold both edges together so they meet in the middle. Sprinkle half of your remaining sugar over these folds before rolling again.

Step 6: Chill

Wrap your shaped pastry in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This step helps maintain its shape while baking.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

As you prepare to bake, heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you’re done chilling.

Step 8: Cut Into Strips

Remove chilled pastry from the fridge. Cut it into strips about 1cm wide.

Step 9: Coat with Sugar

Dip each cut edge into the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture for extra sweetness before placing them on a lined baking tray. Ensure there’s space between each strip (about 2 inches apart).

Step 10: Bake

Bake your Cinnamon Palmiers for approximately 14 minutes until they caramelize beautifully.

Step 11: Flip & Finish Baking

Gently turn each strip over and bake for an additional 4 minutes until golden brown.

Step 12: Cool Down

Once baked, cool your pastries on a rack lined with parchment paper before serving. Enjoy these delightful treats fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Cinnamon Palmiers

Cinnamon palmiers are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their light and flaky texture pairs well with a range of accompaniments, making them perfect for any occasion.

With Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the sweet flavors of cinnamon palmiers, providing a comforting experience.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cinnamon palmiers on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruits and chocolate sauce for an appealing presentation.

At Breakfast

• Serve these pastries as part of a breakfast spread, alongside yogurt and berries for a balanced meal.

With Ice Cream

• Top warm cinnamon palmiers with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that contrasts textures beautifully.

For Festive Occasions

• Present cinnamon palmiers during holiday gatherings or celebrations, as they look elegant and taste fantastic.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Cinnamon Palmiers

Creating flawless cinnamon palmiers is simple with a few tips. These tricks will ensure your pastries turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Working with chilled puff pastry helps maintain its flaky texture while baking.
• Even Sugar Distribution: Ensure that the cinnamon sugar is evenly sprinkled over the pastry to achieve consistent sweetness in each bite.
• Roll Firmly: When rolling the pastry, apply enough pressure to embed the sugar without crushing the layers.
• Chill Before Baking: Chilling the rolled pastry helps maintain its shape during baking and enhances flakiness.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pastries while they bake to avoid over-browning; they should be golden and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Palmiers

Cinnamon palmiers can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some excellent pairings:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of cinnamon palmiers.
2. Greek Yogurt: Serve with honey-drizzled Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy cookies.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Provide melted chocolate for dipping; this creates a rich flavor experience that chocolate lovers will adore.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which offer a savory touch against the sweet pastries.
5. Mimosa: A refreshing mimosa made with orange juice and champagne complements the sweetness perfectly during brunch.
6. Herbal Tea: Choose herbal teas like chamomile or mint to serve alongside your palmiers for a soothing beverage option.
7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over your palmiers for an extra layer of flavor that’s sure to impress guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cinnamon Palmiers can be fun, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not Thawing the Pastry Properly: Ensure your puff pastry is completely thawed before using. This helps achieve the perfect flaky texture.
• Skipping the Rolling Step: Rolling the sugar into the pastry is crucial. It ensures that the cinnamon flavor permeates throughout the layers.
• Overcrowding the Baking Tray: Leave enough space between each palmier on the tray. They need room to expand and caramelize evenly.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 400°F. This helps in getting that golden, crispy finish on your cookies.
• Cutting Uneven Strips: For consistent baking, cut your palmier strips evenly. This ensures they bake at the same rate and look appealing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cinnamon Palmiers in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cinnamon Palmiers

• Wrap individual palmiers in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating Cinnamon Palmiers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crisp.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds, but this may soften them.
• Stovetop: Place them in a skillet on low heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Cinnamon Palmiers last?

Cinnamon Palmiers last about 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature or up to a week when refrigerated.

Can I customize my Cinnamon Palmiers?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices like nutmeg for unique flavors.

Are Cinnamon Palmiers difficult to make?

Not at all! These treats are quite simple and require minimal ingredients, making them perfect for beginner bakers.

What is the best way to serve Cinnamon Palmiers?

Serve them warm or at room temperature alongside coffee or tea for a delightful snack experience.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Palmiers are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with impressive results. Their flaky texture and sweet cinnamon coating make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with various fillings or toppings for a personal touch!