Cinnamon Palmiers

Cinnamon Palmiers are delightful, light and flaky pastry cookies that are perfect for any occasion. These French treats, coated in cinnamon sugar and baked to golden perfection, are not only simple to make but also impressively delicious. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying an afternoon snack, or gifting them to friends, these pastries will surely stand out with their unique flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create these delicious pastries without any fuss.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for tea time, parties, or as a sweet addition to breakfast.
• Flaky Texture: The use of puff pastry gives these cookies a wonderfully flaky bite that everyone will love.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm and inviting taste that is hard to resist.
• Impressive Presentation: These cookies look elegant and professional, making them a great choice for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Cinnamon Palmiers, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the puff pastry evenly and ensuring the cinnamon sugar adheres well.
• Baking tray: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your palmiers, allowing for even heat distribution.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy 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 Mixture

• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

How to Make Cinnamon Palmiers

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

1. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar on the surface of the thawed puff pastry.
2. Use the rolling pin to press the sugar into the pastry evenly.

Step 3: Flip and Repeat

1. Flip the pastry over.
2. Repeat sprinkling with another 2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar and roll again with the rolling pin.

Step 4: Fold the Edges

1. Fold each long edge halfway towards the center of the pastry.
2. Roll lightly with the rolling pin to flatten slightly.

Step 5: Final Folding

1. Fold both edges together so they meet in the middle.
2. Sprinkle half of the remaining sugar over this fold.
3. Roll again gently to seal.

Step 6: Chill Before Baking

1. Chill the rolled pastry in the fridge for about 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 7: Preheat Your Oven

1. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 8: Cut into Strips

1. Remove chilled pastry from the fridge.
2. Cut into 1cm strips using a sharp knife.

Step 9: Coat with Sugar

1. Dip each cut edge into the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture for extra sweetness.

Step 10: Bake Your Palmiers

1. Place strips on a lined baking tray, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for approximately 14 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.

Step 11: Final Touches

1. Carefully flip each palmier over using tongs or a spatula.
2. Bake for an additional 4 minutes until evenly golden.

Step 12: Cool Down

1. Once baked, cool your palmiers on a rack lined with parchment paper before serving.

With these steps completed, your homemade Cinnamon Palmiers will be ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Cinnamon Palmiers

Cinnamon palmiers are versatile treats that can be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether for a casual snack or a celebration, here are some delightful ways to serve these crispy pastries.

With Tea or Coffee

• Pairing cinnamon palmiers with your favorite tea or coffee enhances the flavors and makes for a delightful afternoon treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cinnamon palmiers alongside other sweets like macarons and chocolate truffles for an elegant dessert presentation at gatherings.

Breakfast Addition

• Serve them with yogurt and fresh fruit for a sweet addition to your breakfast table. The crispiness complements creamy textures beautifully.

Gift Them

• Package cinnamon palmiers in decorative boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift. They make wonderful treats for friends and family during holidays.

At Celebrations

• Include these pastries in your party snacks or dessert buffet. Their flaky texture appeals to both kids and adults alike.

For Brunch Events

• Incorporate cinnamon palmiers into your brunch spread. They pair nicely with fresh juices and can be enjoyed as a light pastry option.

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How to Perfect Cinnamon Palmiers

To achieve the best results when making cinnamon palmiers, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Cold Puff Pastry: Chilling the puff pastry keeps it flaky and helps maintain its shape while baking.
• Even Sugar Distribution: Sprinkle sugar evenly across the pastry surface to ensure every bite is sweet and flavorful.
• Don’t Skip Chilling: Letting the rolled pastry chill before cutting allows the layers to set, resulting in better puffing during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pastries while they bake; ovens vary, and you want them perfectly golden without burning.
• Flip Carefully: When flipping the palmiers, use a spatula gently to avoid breaking them.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Palmiers

Cinnamon palmiers can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their sweetness and texture. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the palmiers.
2. Creamy Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds creaminess, creating a delicious combination with the crispy pastries.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over cinnamon palmiers can elevate them into an indulgent dessert.
4. Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey offers extra sweetness while enhancing the cinnamon flavor profile.
5. Fruit Compote: Serve with a side of apple or berry compote for additional fruity flavor that pairs well with the spices.
6. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix adds texture and heartiness, making it perfect for snacking alongside these sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using unthawed pastry: Ensure that your puff pastry is fully thawed before starting. This helps the layers puff up properly.
• Not rolling the sugar in: Failing to roll the cinnamon sugar into the pastry can lead to uneven flavor. Always press the sugar well into the dough.
• Cutting too thick: If you cut the strips too thick, they may not bake evenly. Aim for 1cm strips for best results.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the rolled pastry is crucial for maintaining its shape during baking. Don’t skip this step!
• Using too much sugar: Overloading with cinnamon sugar can lead to burnt edges. Use only as much as needed for a balanced sweetness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cinnamon Palmiers

• Freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

Reheating Cinnamon Palmiers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds, but note this may soften them.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cinnamon Palmiers.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry for Cinnamon Palmiers?

Yes, store-bought puff pastry works great and saves time in preparation.

How do I make my Cinnamon Palmiers more flavorful?

Consider adding vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile of your Cinnamon Palmiers.

What if I don’t have cinnamon?

You could use other spices like cardamom or pumpkin spice as an alternative.

How do I know when my Cinnamon Palmiers are done?

Look for a golden brown color and a crisp texture. They should caramelize slightly on the edges.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Palmiers are delightful pastries that offer both simplicity and elegance. Perfect for any occasion, these treats can be customized with different spices or fillings. Give them a try and enjoy their flaky goodness!