Cinnamon Palmiers

Light, flaky and deliciously sweet, Cinnamon Palmiers are the perfect treat for any occasion. These French pastry cookies, coated in a delightful cinnamon sugar mixture, are surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack or an elegant addition to a dessert table, these cookies will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, coffee breaks, or as a sweet gift.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery puff pastry and cinnamon sugar is irresistible.
• Elegant Presentation: Shaped like hearts, they look beautiful on any platter.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for baking with children who will love the fun shapes.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing delicious Cinnamon Palmiers requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for evenly flattening the pastry and pressing in the cinnamon sugar.
• Baking tray: Provides a sturdy base for baking your palmiers to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

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 Mixture

• 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 with the cinnamon until well mixed. This will create a flavorful coating for your palmiers.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry

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

Step 3: Flip and Repeat

Carefully flip the pastry over and sprinkle another 2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar on this side. Roll again with the rolling pin to ensure even coverage.

Step 4: Fold Edges Inward

Fold each long edge of the pastry halfway toward the center. Then roll up from one end to flatten further.

Step 5: Create Layers

Fold both edges together to meet in the middle, then sprinkle half of the remaining cinnamon sugar over this fold. Roll again to secure layers.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

Wrap your rolled pastry in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps maintain its shape during baking.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

While chilling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot when you’re ready to bake.

Step 8: Cut Strips

Once chilled, remove from the fridge and cut into strips about 1cm wide.

Step 9: Sugar Dip Edges

Dip each cut edge into any leftover cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them on a lined baking tray.

Step 10: Bake

Arrange strips on your baking tray with about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 14 minutes or until they caramelize nicely.

Step 11: Flip for Crispiness

Carefully flip each strip over using tongs or a spatula and bake for an additional 4 minutes until golden brown.

Step 12: Cool Down

Once baked, transfer them onto a rack lined with parchment paper to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Palmiers, perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!

How to Serve Cinnamon Palmiers

Cinnamon Palmiers are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a dessert, snack, or part of a special occasion, these pastries offer versatility. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these flaky delights.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pairing Cinnamon Palmiers with coffee or tea creates a perfect afternoon treat. The warmth of the beverage complements the sweet, crunchy texture of the cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Add Cinnamon Palmiers to a dessert platter alongside other sweets. This adds visual appeal and offers guests a variety of flavors to choose from.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve Cinnamon Palmiers alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples. The sweetness of the fruit balances well with the rich pastry.

Dusted with Icing Sugar

• For an extra touch, dust your Cinnamon Palmiers with icing sugar just before serving. This makes them look even more enticing and adds a subtle sweetness.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Palmiers

To achieve the best results when making Cinnamon Palmiers, consider these helpful tips. They can make your baking process smoother and enhance the flavor and texture of your pastries.

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Ensure that your puff pastry is cold; this helps create those beautiful flaky layers during baking.
• Even Sugar Distribution: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly on both sides of the pastry to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Chill Before Cutting: After shaping, chill the rolled pastry again before cutting; this will help maintain its shape during baking.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your palmiers while baking; oven temperatures can vary, so adjust time as needed for perfect caramelization.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Palmiers

Cinnamon Palmiers pair wonderfully with certain side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some delicious options to consider when serving this delightful treat.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crispy texture.
2. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over Cinnamon Palmiers for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
3. Whipped Cream – Light and airy whipped cream complements the sweetness of the pastries nicely, making for an elegant presentation.
4. Caramel Sauce – A rich caramel sauce provides a sweet dipping option that pairs perfectly with cinnamon flavors.
5. Fruit Compote – Serve with a homemade fruit compote for added freshness and vibrant color on the plate.
6. Cheese Plate – Include a selection of mild cheeses that balance out the sweetness, creating an interesting flavor profile when enjoyed together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cinnamon Palmiers can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some tips to ensure your pastries turn out perfectly.

• Incorrect pastry temperature: Using puff pastry that is too warm can lead to tough cookies. Always ensure the pastry is cold before rolling it out and baking.

• Uneven sugar distribution: Not spreading the cinnamon sugar evenly can cause some areas to burn while others remain bland. Take time to sprinkle and roll the sugar thoroughly on both sides of the pastry.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the rolled pastry helps maintain its shape during baking. Be sure to refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to achieve optimal flakiness.

• Overbaking: Watching the baking time is crucial. Leaving them in too long may result in burnt edges. Keep an eye on them as they bake, especially during the last few minutes.

• Neglecting parchment paper: Baking directly on a tray can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Always line your baking tray with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cinnamon Palmiers

• Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Palmiers

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds, but be cautious as this may make them soft rather than crispy.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, warm them for a couple of minutes, flipping occasionally to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cinnamon Palmiers without puff pastry?

You can use phyllo dough as an alternative, although it may not yield the same flakiness. Layer several sheets with butter and cinnamon sugar before folding and cutting.

Can I customize my Cinnamon Palmiers?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or even add chocolate chips for extra flavor.

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Palmiers?

Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

What should I serve with Cinnamon Palmiers?

These treats pair well with coffee or tea. For a special touch, serve them alongside whipped cream or fruit preserves.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Palmiers are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with elegance. Their light, flaky texture and sweet cinnamon flavor make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize these pastries with your favorite spices or toppings, ensuring each batch is uniquely yours. Enjoy making these delightful French cookies!