Palmiers a.k.a. Elephant Ears Recipe

Palmiers, also known as Elephant Ears, are a delightful and simple pastry that has won the hearts of many across the globe. Originating from French cuisine, these sweet treats are not only easy to make but also offer a crispy, sugary delight in every bite.

Introduction to Palmiers/Elephant Ears

Palmiers, with their unique heart shape and flaky texture, have a rich history in the world of pastries. These pastries are a testament to the simplicity and elegance of French baking. For more on the origins of French pastry recipes, visit History of French Pastries.

• Brief History and Origin: The Palmier is believed to have originated in France, where it is a staple in bakeries.
• Popularity and Cultural Significance: Known for their golden brown color and sugar-glazed surface, Palmiers have become a favorite in many cultures.

Understanding the Recipe’s Simplicity and Appeal

The recipe for Palmiers, also known as Elephant Ears, is celebrated for its simplicity. Using minimal ingredients, primarily puff pastry and sugar, these pastries are a go-to recipe for many home bakers. For detailed baking techniques and tips, check out Baking Techniques and Tips.

• Overview of Simplicity: With just a few ingredients, anyone can create these delightful treats.
• Appeal to Different Age Groups: Their sweet, crispy texture makes them a hit among both children and adults.

Variations Across Cultures

Palmiers are known by various names and have slight variations in different cultures. They are a versatile treat that can be adapted to various tastes and occasions.

• Different Names and Variations: In some places, they are known as heart-shaped cookies or French hearts.
• Cultural Adaptations: Each culture adds its unique twist, whether it’s the type of sugar used or the addition of other flavors.

Ingredients and Tools Needed

To create the perfect Palmiers, also known as Elephant Ears, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• A pinch of salt (optional)

For the tools and equipment:

• A rolling pin to evenly roll out the pastry
• Baking sheets for baking the Palmiers
• Parchment paper to line the baking sheets
• A sharp knife or pizza cutter for cutting the pastry
• A brush for applying water (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement
• A wire rack for cooling the pastries

These simple ingredients and tools are all you need to create this delightful pastry, making Palmiers an accessible recipe for bakers of all levels.

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

1. Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Rolling the Dough: Sprinkle half of the sugar on a clean surface and place the thawed puff pastry on top. Roll the pastry into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick, ensuring the sugar is pressed into the dough.
3. Adding Sugar: Sprinkle the remaining sugar and a pinch of salt over the dough. Lightly brush the surface with water to help the sugar adhere, if needed.
4. Folding the Dough: Fold the long sides of the rectangle towards the center, so they go halfway to the middle. Fold them again so the two folds meet at the center of the dough. Then, fold one half over the other half, as if closing a book, creating six layers.
5. Cutting and Shaping: Cut the dough into 1/2-inch slices. Place the slices on the baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced apart as they will expand during baking.
6. Baking: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the Palmiers are golden and puffed. Flip them halfway through baking for an even color.
7. Cooling: Remove the Palmiers from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool.

Tips for Perfect Dough and Baking:

• Ensure the puff pastry is cold but pliable for easier handling.
• Roll the dough evenly to prevent uneven baking.
• Keep an eye on the Palmiers as they bake, as they can go from perfect to overdone quickly.

Decoration and Serving Suggestions

Palmiers can be served as is or with creative decorations to enhance their appeal:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over the cooled Palmiers for a gourmet touch.
• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar can add sweetness and a decorative finish.
• Fruit Pairing: Serve with fresh berries or a fruit compote for a refreshing contrast.

Serving Suggestions:

• Tea Time: Pair with tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Dessert Platter: Include in a dessert platter with other pastries for variety.
• Special Occasions: Serve at parties or gatherings as a sweet and elegant treat.

Nutritional Information

Each Palmier contains an approximate nutritional breakdown as follows:

• Calories: Ranging from 100-150 calories per piece, depending on size.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from sugar and flour, contributing to the crisp texture.
• Fats: Mostly from the butter in the puff pastry, providing a rich flavor.
• Sugars: A significant amount, as sugar is a key ingredient in both the dough and the coating.

It’s important to note that Palmiers are a treat best enjoyed in moderation due to their sugar and fat content. However, their small size makes them a perfect choice for a sweet indulgence without overindulgence.

Storage and Preservation Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and crispiness of Palmiers:

• Room Temperature Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• Avoiding Moisture: Keep them away from moisture to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Reheating: If they lose their crispness, briefly reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

These tips ensure your Palmiers remain as delightful as the day they were baked, preserving their signature flaky texture and sweet taste.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

Even experienced bakers can encounter issues when making Palmiers. Here are some common mistakes and their solutions:

• Dough Becoming Too Soft: If the puff pastry becomes too soft and difficult to handle, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
• Uneven Browning: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
• Palmiers Not Crispy Enough: If they aren’t as crispy as desired, increase the oven temperature slightly and bake for a few more minutes.
• Sugar Burning: Watch carefully as the sugar can burn quickly. If they start to darken too much, lower the oven temperature.

By being mindful of these potential issues and knowing how to address them, you can achieve perfect Palmiers every time.

FAQs

Can I use homemade puff pastry for Palmiers?

• Yes, homemade puff pastry can be used and often results in a more flavorful pastry. However, it requires more effort and skill.

How thin should I roll the puff pastry?

• Roll the pastry to about 1/8 inch thick. This thickness is ideal for achieving the perfect balance of crispiness and layers.

Can I add other flavors to my Palmiers?

• Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cinnamon, lemon zest, or even savory variations like cheese or herbs.

Why did my Palmiers not puff up properly?

• This could be due to the dough not being cold enough or the oven not being properly preheated. Ensure your dough is chilled and your oven is at the right temperature before baking.

Are Palmiers suitable for freezing?

• Yes, you can freeze the shaped, unbaked Palmiers. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer, and once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Classic Palmiers (Elephant Ears) Recipe

Enjoy the classic taste of French patisserie with this easy Palmiers recipe, also known as Elephant Ears. These sweet, crispy pastries are perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to elegant parties. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful treat that's sure to impress.

5 from 8 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine French

Servings 20 Palmiers

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Rolling Pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Brush (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Ingredients

  

• 1 sheet of puff pastry thawed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• A pinch of salt optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Prepare the Dough: Sprinkle half of the sugar on a clean surface. Place the thawed puff pastry on top and roll it into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. The sugar should be pressed into the dough.
• Sugar the Dough: Sprinkle the remaining sugar and a pinch of salt over the dough. Lightly brush the surface with water to help the sugar adhere, if needed.
• Fold the Dough: Fold the long sides of the rectangle towards the center, so they go halfway to the middle. Fold them again so the two folds meet at the center of the dough. Then, fold one half over the other half, like closing a book, creating six layers.
• Cut and Shape: Cut the dough into 1/2-inch slices. Place the slices on the prepared baking sheets, spaced apart.
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the Palmiers are golden and puffed. Flip them halfway through baking for even color.
• Cool: Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool.

Tips:

• Keep the puff pastry cold for easier handling.
• Roll the dough evenly for uniform baking.
• Watch the Palmiers closely as they can quickly go from perfect to overdone.

Storage:

• Store Palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For crispier cookies, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Notes

• The puff pastry should be thawed but still cold for easier handling.
• Rolling the dough evenly is key to achieving the perfect texture.
• Keep a close eye on the Palmiers in the oven, as they can brown quickly.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Keyword Classic Palmiers (Elephant Ears) Recipe