Imagine a pastry so elegant, so deliciously simple, that it transforms just three ingredients into a heavenly French treat that will make your taste buds dance! French Palmiers, also known as "elephant ears" for their distinctive shape, are the ultimate combination of crispy, buttery puff pastry and golden caramelized sugar. These stunning cookies are not just a dessert; they're a culinary experience that looks like you've trained in a Parisian patisserie, but can be created in your very own kitchen with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 24 pieces
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Remove the puff pastry sheet from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to become pliable but still cold.
- Lightly dust your clean work surface with some of the granulated sugar, creating an even layer that will caramelize during baking.
- Unfold the puff pastry sheet carefully onto the sugared surface, ensuring it's flat and not cracked.
- Sprinkle the entire surface of the pastry generously and evenly with the remaining granulated sugar. If using nuts, sprinkle the finely chopped nuts over the sugar.
- Using a rolling pin, gently press the sugar and nuts (if using) into the pastry, creating a light adhesion.
- Fold the long sides of the pastry inward towards the center, meeting in the middle, creating two rolled edges that look like scrolls.
- Sprinkle additional sugar between the folded layers to ensure caramelization.
- Fold the pastry in half again, creating a long, compact log shape.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the butter and make slicing easier.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the pastry log from the refrigerator and slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife.
- Place the palmier slices cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for expansion.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the sugar has caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips
- • Keep your puff pastry cold but pliable - this ensures the perfect flaky texture • Use granulated sugar generously - it's key to achieving those beautiful caramelized edges • Don't rush the chilling process; refrigerating the log helps create clean, precise slices • Use a very sharp knife when cutting to maintain the palmier's elegant shape • Watch your palmiers closely while baking - they can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly • Allow them to cool completely to achieve maximum crispness • For variations, experiment with adding finely chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
