Palmiers, also known as Elephant Ears, are a delightful treat that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. These crispy pastries are made from simple ingredients yet deliver an impressive flavor that will make you the star of your next event. Whether served alongside coffee or as a sweet ending to dinner, palmiers boast a unique shape and texture that makes them irresistible. Their flaky layers and caramelized edges result from the rolling and folding technique used in preparation. Plus, they require minimal effort while allowing you to indulge in gourmet flavors from the comfort of your own kitchen. In just a few steps, you can create these delightful treats that everyone will love. Perfect for parties or special occasions, palmiers are sure to impress both visually and taste-wise.
Why You’ll Love This Palmiers (Elephant Ears)
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
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Ingredients for Palmiers (Elephant Ears)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Puff Pastry Sheets: Use store-bought or homemade puff pastry; ensure it’s thawed if frozen before starting the recipe.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps achieve the caramelized effect during baking.
- Ground Cinnamon: Optional but recommended for added warmth and flavor; adjust to taste.
- Flour: A little dusting of flour on your work surface prevents sticking while rolling out the dough.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Palmiers (Elephant Ears)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Work Surface
Lightly flour your work surface where you’ll roll out the puff pastry. This step is important to avoid any sticking issues.
Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Unroll one puff pastry sheet onto the floured surface. Gently roll it out into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick.
Step 4: Add Sugar Mixture
Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the rolled-out dough. If using cinnamon, mix it with sugar beforehand and then sprinkle it onto the dough.
Step 5: Fold the Dough
Starting from one long side of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough towards the center until it meets in the middle. Repeat this process on the opposite side so both rolls meet at the center.
Step 6: Slice and Bake
Cut the rolled dough into about 1/2-inch thick slices. Place them cut-side up on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Transfer to plates and enjoy these delectable pastries fresh out of the oven!
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Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Coating: Ensure an even sprinkle of sugar on your puff pastry for consistent sweetness across all pieces.
- Chill Before Baking: For even flakier palmiers, chill them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before baking.
- Watch Closely: Keep an eye on them while baking since ovens vary; they can quickly go from golden brown to burnt.
How to Serve Palmiers (Elephant Ears)
This Palmiers (Elephant Ears) is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh Fruit: The sweetness of fresh fruit balances the rich buttery flavor of the Palmiers.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses enhances the savory notes, making it a delightful accompaniment for a gathering.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements the crispy texture perfectly, creating an ideal snack or dessert option.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
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Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Palmiers dough up to two days in advance. Roll out the dough, sprinkle with sugar, and fold as instructed. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to slice and bake.
- Storing: Store leftover Palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them for up to one month; just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the Palmiers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness without drying them out.
Suggestions for Palmiers (Elephant Ears)
Use Fresh Puff Pastry
Using fresh puff pastry is crucial for making delicious palmiers. Frozen puff pastry can be a convenient option, but it often lacks the flaky texture that fresh dough provides. When you use fresh pastry, ensure it is well-chilled before rolling. This helps maintain the crispiness during baking. Always check the packaging for any signs of damage or thawing, as this can lead to uneven results. If you’re making your own puff pastry, remember that resting the dough between folds is essential for achieving those beautiful layers. Avoid shortcuts; they can compromise the final product.
Proper Sugar Distribution
Even sugar distribution is vital for achieving evenly caramelized palmiers. When sprinkling sugar on your rolled pastry, be generous but ensure that it covers all areas evenly. If too much sugar accumulates in one spot, it may burn while other areas remain bland. To avoid this, use a fine layer of sugar and gently press it into the dough using a rolling pin before folding. This technique helps integrate the sugar into the layers more effectively. Additionally, consider using a mix of white and brown sugar for extra flavor depth.
Correct Baking Time and Temperature
Baking palmiers at the right temperature and duration is key to getting them perfectly golden brown and crispy. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for best results. Keep an eye on them during baking, as palmiers can quickly go from perfectly baked to overdone within minutes. Depending on your oven’s calibration, the baking time may vary slightly, so start checking around the 12-minute mark. Rotate your baking tray halfway through for even cooking. Allow them to cool slightly before serving; this helps them firm up further.
Storage Tips
Storing palmiers correctly ensures they remain fresh and retain their crunchy texture. After baking, let them cool completely on a wire rack; if stored while warm, steam will make them soggy. Place cooled palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a couple of days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to enjoy homemade palmiers at a later date without sacrificing quality.
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FAQs
What are Palmiers (Elephant Ears)?
Palmiers, also known as Elephant Ears, are delightful French pastries made from puff pastry and sugar. They take their name from their distinctive shape, which resembles palm leaves or elephant ears when cut and baked. The dough is rolled with sugar added between layers, then folded and sliced before baking until golden brown and crispy. Their sweet flavor makes them perfect as snacks or desserts alongside coffee or tea.
Can I add flavors to my Palmiers?
Absolutely! While traditional palmiers are simply made with sugar, you can customize them by incorporating various flavors into the dough or sugar mixture. Adding ground cinnamon or vanilla extract enhances the sweetness beautifully. For a savory twist, consider using cheese or herbs in place of sugar—these variations create unique snacks that can impress guests at gatherings.
How do I make Vegan Palmiers (Elephant Ears)?
To make vegan palmiers, swap out butter in traditional recipes with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or vegan margarine. Ensure your puff pastry is also vegan-friendly; many store-bought versions contain butter but there are brands specifically designed for vegans available now. The preparation method remains similar: roll out your vegan pastry with sugar and follow standard folding techniques for delightful treats.
Can I prepare Palmiers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare palmiers ahead of time by following two methods: first, make the dough and roll it up with sugar inside; then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake. Alternatively, bake them in advance and store cooled pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.
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Conclusion for Palmiers (Elephant Ears)
In summary, making perfect palmiers (elephant ears) involves careful attention to detail throughout the process—from using fresh puff pastry to ensuring proper baking times and temperatures. By avoiding common mistakes such as improper sugar distribution or inadequate storage techniques, you elevate these simple yet elegant pastries to new heights of flavor and texture. With their versatility in flavor options and ease of preparation ahead of time, palmiers can easily become a favorite treat in any household. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and impressing friends with these delightful French pastries!
Easy Palmiers Recipe: Perfectly Flaky Elephant Ears
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
Palmiers, or Elephant Ears, are delightful French pastries that combine a crispy, flaky texture with a sweet caramelized flavor. Made from just a handful of simple ingredients, these elegant treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack. Their unique palm leaf shape adds visual appeal, making them an impressive addition to dessert tables. With minimal effort and quick preparation, you can create these irresistible pastries that pair beautifully with coffee or tea. Customize them with your favorite spices or sugars for a personal touch. Follow this easy recipe to indulge in the delectable world of homemade palmiers that will surely impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Flour for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar (and cinnamon if using) evenly over the pastry.
- Roll the dough from both long sides towards the center until they meet.
- Slice the rolled dough into 1/2-inch thick pieces and place cut-side up on the baking sheets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Notes
For extra flakiness, chill the sliced pastries in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking.
Experiment with different sugars like brown sugar for added depth of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pastry (20g)
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For extra flakiness, chill the sliced pastries in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking. Experiment with different sugars like brown sugar for added depth of flavor.
