Description
Palmiers Cookies, also known as Elephant Ears, are classic French pastries made from puff pastry coated in sugar, folded into a distinctive shape, and baked until golden and caramelized. These crispy, sweet treats are perfect for dessert or as a tea-time snack, boasting a delicate crunch and buttery flavor with a caramelized sugar finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Palmiers Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 lb puff pastry (2 sheets of storebought puff pastry, thawed according to package instructions)
- 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
- Parchment paper to line the cookie sheet
Instructions
- Mix Sugar and Salt: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) with a rack in the center position. Combine the granulated sugar and fine sea salt in a bowl. Pour 1/2 cup of this sugar and salt mixture onto a clean, flat surface such as a large wooden cutting board to coat the pastry later.
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry onto the sugared surface. Evenly spread 1/4 cup of the sugar mixture over the top of the pastry sheet. Using a rolling pin, gently roll the pastry to about a 13-inch square, pressing the sugar into the dough to infuse flavor and create a caramelized crust when baked.
- Fold the Pastry: Fold two opposite sides of the rolled puff pastry into the center so they meet. Fold again, closing it like a book; this will create eight layers of sugar-coated pastry inside, giving the cookies their signature layered look and crispiness.
- Slice and Arrange: Using a sharp knife, cut the folded pastry log into slices just under 1/2 inch thick. Place each slice cut-side-up on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them for even baking. Repeat this process with the second sheet of puff pastry.
- Bake the Palmiers: Bake the cookies for 6 to 8 minutes, checking at 6 minutes, until the bottoms become golden brown and caramelized, which can sometimes be difficult to see. Carefully flip each cookie over, reshape any misshapen ones, and return them to the oven for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown. Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack before serving.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry sheets are properly thawed according to package instructions for best results.
- Check the first side frequently towards the end of baking to avoid burning the sugar.
- Flipping the cookies mid-bake ensures even caramelization on both sides.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Store baked palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispness.
