If you're craving cookies with cinnamon "ears," you've got to try cinnamon palmiers! These delightful pastries combine flaky puff pastry with warm cinnamon and sugar for a satisfying treat. They're quick to make and perfect for any occasion, thanks to their light, crispy texture. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up about 20 of these golden-brown cookies that are loved by many. Stick around to discover more tips and tricks for perfecting your palmiers!
History
When you bite into a Cinnamon Palmier, you're indulging in a treat with a rich history rooted in both French and Spanish pastry traditions. Known also as elephant ears or orejitas, these delightful cookies reflect the culinary artistry of Europe.
The name "palmiers" comes from the French word for "palm trees," inspired by their unique shape that mimics tree leaves. Made from puff pastry, which gained popularity in the 17th century, these cookies are celebrated for their light, flaky texture.
The name "palmiers" reflects their palm tree-inspired shape, showcasing the delightful lightness of puff pastry.
The preparation involves skillfully rolling and folding the dough multiple times, a technique deeply embedded in classic French baking.
Today, Cinnamon Palmiers are beloved around the world, gracing cafes and bakeries with their sweet allure.
Recipe
Cinnamon Elephant Ears, also known as palmiers, are a delightful pastry that combines the richness of flaky puff pastry with the warm sweetness of cinnamon and sugar.
These cookies are incredibly easy to make and require minimal ingredients, making them an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. With a total preparation and baking time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these delicious treats in no time, perfect for serving at gatherings or gifting to friends and family.
The beauty of Cinnamon Elephant Ears lies in their simplicity and the satisfying texture that comes from the multiple layers of puff pastry. As you roll and fold the dough, it creates a delightful flaky quality that pairs wonderfully with the sweet cinnamon-sugar coating.
These cookies are sure to impress with their elegant appearance and irresistible flavor, earning them a popular rating of 4.6 stars from 87 reviews.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- Flour (for dusting)
- Optional: powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet until it's approximately 1/8 inch thick.
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle a generous amount of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the rolled pastry, then fold the sides of the pastry toward the center until they meet in the middle.
Sprinkle more cinnamon-sugar on top, then fold the pastry over itself again, creating a log shape. Slice the log into 1/2 inch thick pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the cookies for 6 minutes on one side, then carefully turn them over and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown.
Extra Tips:
When baking Cinnamon Elephant Ears, it's crucial to keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly, especially during the second baking phase.
Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness at the lower end of the recommended time. Additionally, for an extra touch of sweetness, consider dusting the finished cookies with powdered sugar once they've cooled.
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Elephant Ears fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container to maintain their delightful texture!
Cooking Steps
To get started, preheat your oven to 400°F for optimal baking.
Next, roll your dough into rectangles and generously sprinkle it with cinnamon sugar for that sweet flavor.
After folding and slicing the dough, you'll be ready to bake until golden brown and delicious!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 400°F
Preheating your oven is a crucial step for achieving perfectly baked cookies. Set your oven to 450°F to create optimal baking conditions for your cinnamon palmiers. This higher temperature ensures a beautifully caramelized and browned bottom in just about 6 minutes.
While your oven heats up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Once your oven reaches the desired temperature, place the baking sheets inside.
Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake, turning them with a spatula after the initial 6 minutes. Allow them to bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes for even cooking. Proper monitoring will help you avoid burning and achieve that flaky, crispy texture!
Step 2. Roll Dough Into Rectangles
Start with a sheet of thawed puff pastry, laying it flat on a surface dusted with a mix of sugar and kosher salt to prevent sticking.
Grab your rolling pin and roll the dough into a rectangular shape, aiming for about 13 inches square. As you roll, press the sugar mixture into the pastry, ensuring you create rich layers of flavor. Adding high-quality vanilla extract can further enhance the sweetness of your cookies. Incorporating whole foods in your recipes can improve their overall healthiness.
Once you've got the right shape, fold the dough inwards from both sides, meeting in the center to form six layers. This will help achieve that perfect texture.
Finally, slice the folded dough into 3/8-inch pieces to create the iconic cinnamon "ears" shape. You're now ready for the next delicious step! Additionally, using high-quality ingredients can significantly enhance the overall flavor of your cookies.
Step 3. Sprinkle With Cinnamon Sugar
Once you've rolled out your dough and created those delightful layers, it's time to enhance the flavor with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Start by combining 1/2 cup of sugar with a pinch of kosher salt to make your cinnamon-sugar mixture. Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars are another delicious option that can be made with similar sweet layers. Additionally, using color accuracy in your visual presentation can make your treats even more appealing.
After unfolding the puff pastry, evenly sprinkle that mixture over the entire surface. As you roll the dough into a 13-inch square, press the sugar mixture into the pastry for better adherence.
This step is crucial for achieving that sweet, cinnamon flavor in each bite. Incorporating sweet and swirled breakfast treats into your morning routine can elevate the experience even further.
Once you finish rolling, you'll be ready to fold the dough, but remember to keep any remaining cinnamon-sugar handy to coat your sliced pieces later for maximum flavor.
Step 4. Fold and Slice Dough
With your dough rolled into a perfect 13-inch square, it's time to fold it into layers that will create those delightful cinnamon ears.
Start by pressing your sugar mixture into the dough to make sure it sticks. Next, fold the dough towards the center, bringing in the edges to form a compact package with six layers. This folding technique is crucial for achieving that flaky texture, similar to the layering technique used in creating puff pastry.
Once you've completed the folds, grab a sharp knife or pastry cutter and slice the dough into 3/8-inch thick pieces. Arrange these slices on your baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion while baking.
This step is vital for ensuring even baking and a beautiful presentation. Additionally, ensure that you have proper cage setup to create an ideal environment for your baked goods, just as you would for a pet.
Step 5. Bake Until Golden Brown
As you preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, get ready to transform your cinnamon ear slices into golden-brown delights.
Place the cookies on a baking sheet, ensuring they've enough space to spread. Bake until golden brown for about 6 minutes, watching for caramelization on the bottom.
When they start to brown, carefully turn the cookies with a spatula and return them to the oven. Bake them for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Once they're beautifully golden on both sides, remove them from the oven. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack, allowing them to cool evenly while retaining that flaky texture you love.
Additionally, remember that regular maintenance of your baking tools can enhance your overall baking experience.
Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Simplicity often leads to the most delightful culinary experiences, and Cinnamon Palmiers exemplify this perfectly.
These easy-to-make cookies aren't only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With just a few basic ingredients—sugar, cinnamon, and puff pastry—you can whip up a batch of about 20 cookies in no time.
Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, these cookies require just sugar, cinnamon, and puff pastry to create a delightful batch.
The preparation takes roughly 15 minutes, followed by a quick 10-minute bake, making them a fantastic option for any occasion. Highly rated by those who've tried them, they're praised for their deliciousness and flaky texture.
Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself, these cookies are sure to please. Don't hesitate to customize them with extra cinnamon for an added kick! Additionally, baking these treats in a clean environment can further enhance indoor air quality, making your culinary experience even more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Cinnamon With Other Spices?
Absolutely, you can substitute cinnamon with other spices!
If you're looking for warmth, try nutmeg or allspice. For a different twist, consider using cardamom or ginger for a zesty kick.
Each spice brings its own flavor profile, so don't hesitate to experiment. Just remember that some spices are stronger than others, so adjust the quantity according to your taste.
Enjoy exploring new flavor combinations in your recipes!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
When it comes to storing those leftover cookies, you want to keep them fresh, so they don't go stale on you.
Start by letting them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container.
If you've got a mix of cookies, consider separating them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
You can also freeze them if you want to save them for later. That way, they'll be good as new when you're ready to indulge!
Are These Cookies Suitable for Vegans?
To determine if these cookies are suitable for vegans, you need to check the ingredients. If they contain dairy, eggs, or any animal-derived products, they're not vegan-friendly.
Look for alternatives like plant-based butter or egg replacers if you're making them yourself. If you're buying them, read the label carefully.
There are many delicious vegan cookie recipes available that use substitutes, so you can enjoy treats without compromising your dietary choices.
Can I Freeze These Cookies for Later?
Yes, you can freeze cookies for later! Freezing helps preserve their freshness and flavor.
Start by letting the cookies cool completely. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. You can also layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
When you're ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes. Enjoy your treats anytime!
What Beverages Pair Well With These Cookies?
When you're enjoying those delightful cookies, consider pairing them with a warm beverage. A cup of spiced chai or rich hot chocolate complements the flavors beautifully.
If you prefer something cold, a glass of milk or a creamy vanilla latte works wonders. For a twist, try a sweet cinnamon-infused tea to enhance the cookie experience.
Each sip will elevate your treat, making it a perfect pairing for your taste buds!
