Pin Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers are a quintessential French treat that transforms humble puff pastry into crisp, buttery cookies with an irresistible swirl of cinnamon sugar. These delicate, caramelized pastries come together fast and always bring a touch of elegance to coffee time or afternoon snacks.
The first time I tried making palmiers I was skeptical about how something so simple could taste so good. Now whenever I host brunch these are the first cookies to disappear from the plate.
Ingredients
- All-butter puff pastry: Choose high-quality puff pastry made with real butter for the flakiest and best flavor. Pressed against the dough it forms flaky layers that puff beautifully in the oven
- Granulated sugar: The primary sweetener and the key for forming that golden caramelized crust. Use superfine for extra delicacy if you prefer
- Ground cinnamon: Brings classic warmth and depth. Opt for fresh ground if possible for better aroma and flavor
- Fine sea salt: Enhances the overall taste and sets off the sweetness. Try to avoid table salt for a cleaner finish
- Unsalted butter: For added richness if you want a softer finish and glossier sugar topping. Use good European style for an extra touch (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to two hundred degrees Celsius or four hundred degrees Fahrenheit and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking
- Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:
- Combine sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of fine sea salt in a small bowl. Blend thoroughly to break up any lumps and create an even cinnamon distribution which ensures every bite has a balanced flavor
- Sugar the Surface and Roll Out Dough:
- Scatter half the cinnamon sugar evenly on your work surface. Lay the thawed puff pastry over the sugar and gently roll it out to a rectangle about twenty five by thirty centimeters or ten by twelve inches as this presses the sugar into the base layers and maximizes caramelization
- Top with Butter and Remaining Sugar:
- Brush the top of the dough lightly with melted unsalted butter if using then coat with the rest of the cinnamon sugar. Press in gently to ensure the coating sticks and gets into all the corners
- Shape into Double Spirals:
- Starting from one long edge roll the pastry tightly towards the center. Then repeat from the other long edge. Both rolls should meet in the middle and form a double spiral like a book closing. This gives palmiers their iconic heart shape
- Slice and Arrange:
- Using a very sharp knife cut the log crosswise into one centimeter or about one third inch slices. You should have around twenty four pieces. Place them flat and well spaced on the lined baking sheets. The space allows them to crisp properly
- Bake and Flip:
- Bake for nine minutes on the first side until the sugar underneath is golden and starting to caramelize. Flip each cookie over gently with a thin spatula and bake for another eight to nine minutes. You want the palmiers equally golden and crisp on both sides
- Cool Down:
- Once golden and completely crisp transfer to a wire rack to cool fully. This keeps them crunchy and ready for serving or storage
Pin Cinnamon is always my favorite part I remember the smell of it filling my kitchen and drawing my family out of their rooms It is the kind of ingredient that turns a simple recipe into something truly nostalgic
Storage Tips
Store these palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature up to three days for the best texture If you live in a humid climate place a sheet of parchment between layers to stop sticking Avoid refrigerating as this softens their crisp exterior If making ahead for an event you can bake a double batch and re-crisp them in a moderate oven for a few minutes the day you serve
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find real butter puff pastry most regular frozen puff pastry will work just fine For a dairy free version seek out a vegan puff pastry and leave out the final butter brush Try turbinado sugar for a crunchier finish or mix in a pinch of cardamom for extra spiced aroma
Serving Suggestions
These cookies pair perfectly with strong brewed coffee or a mug of hot chocolate For brunch displays arrange them alongside chocolate dipped strawberries or fresh berries For dessert scatter a few palmiers around vanilla ice cream for a beautiful and simple sundae If you want a holiday touch add a thread of orange zest to your cinnamon sugar mix
French Origins
Palmiers originally hail from classic French patisseries The simple method of folding and slicing puff pastry gave rise both to savory appetizers and these sweet swirls Known by several names including elephant ears and palm leaves their shape and crisp caramel layers make them a bakery favorite that adapts well to the home kitchen
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap half the cinnamon for ground ginger and nutmeg to make festive holiday palmiers Add a touch of crushed dried lavender or finely chopped rosemary in spring for a delicate herbal note Use maple sugar or brown sugar in autumn to enhance richness and deepen caramel notes
Success Stories
Friends always rave about how these cookies taste bakery fresh but require almost no skill I have received recipe requests at nearly every brunch and even used palmiers as gifts for neighbors on a snowy afternoon My kids love swirling the dough and watching the transformation as they bake
Freezer Meal Conversion
Palmiers can be sliced and frozen raw on a tray once frozen store them in a zip top bag When ready to bake simply put them frozen on a prepared sheet pan and bake a couple minutes longer than the recipe states They are incredibly convenient this way and taste just as fresh
Pin Bake a batch once and you will find yourself returning to this effortless French cookie for every celebration and cozy coffee break. They are the kind of treat that makes home feel extra welcoming.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve a perfect spiral shape?
Tightly roll both long sides of the pastry inward, meeting at the center, then slice crosswise for even spirals.
- → Can I use ready-made puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought all-butter puff pastry gives excellent results. Let it thaw fully before rolling and shaping.
- → Why flip cookies during baking?
Flipping ensures both sides caramelize evenly, delivering consistent texture and golden color.
- → Any tips for extra flavor?
For a citrus twist, add orange zest to the cinnamon sugar before layering it on the dough.
- → Are these suitable for vegan diets?
Use vegan puff pastry and skip the butter brush to make them entirely plant-based.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.