Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers Recipe

If you’re craving a sweet, crispy treat that’s downright addictive, you’ve got to try this Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers Recipe. These delicate, caramelized pastries are ridiculously easy to make with store-bought puff pastry, yet taste like something from a fancy bakery. I absolutely love how these palmiers come out—light, flaky, and so perfectly cinnamon-spiced. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds). Stick around, because I’m sharing my favorite tips to help you nail them on your first try!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic here lies in a few basic pantry staples that work beautifully together. Using turbinado sugar instead of plain granulated sugar adds an extra crunch and depth of flavor I’ve come to adore.

• Storebought puff pastry: Make sure it’s properly thawed but still cold—this keeps it flaky and easy to handle.
• Turbinado sugar: Coarser than regular sugar, it caramelizes beautifully and adds a lovely crunch.
• Light brown sugar: Gives a caramel-like sweetness and pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
• Ground cinnamon: I recommend fresh, fragrant cinnamon for maximum flavor punch.
• Salt (optional): A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Variations

This Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers Recipe is a fantastic base you can personalize. I’ve played around with a few twists that really make it fun to switch up depending on your mood or occasion.

• Chocolate Drizzle: I once drizzled melted dark chocolate over cooled palmiers—my family went crazy for the added richness!
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mix to deepen the warm spices for fall vibes.
• Fruit Filling: Try spreading a thin layer of apricot jam under the sugar before folding for a fruity surprise.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: For those avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free puff pastry options—the method stays the same!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pastry and Sugar Base

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat—both ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. Next, mix your brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl so it’s ready to sprinkle. Then, on a clean, flat surface, spread half a cup of turbinado sugar evenly. This creates a crunchy base that sticks to the puff pastry beautifully once rolled out.

Step 2: Roll the Puff Pastry into Sugar

Lay the first sheet of thawed puff pastry on top of your turbinado sugar layer, then give it a gentle roll with a rolling pin to press the sugar into the dough. This trick is something I discovered after a few attempts—it’s key for that crisp, caramelized bottom that makes palmiers so special. Repeat this with the second pastry sheet after you’re done with the first.

Step 3: Add Cinnamon Sugar and Fold

Now sprinkle your cinnamon-brown sugar mixture evenly over the rolled pastry. Fold each side of the pastry inward toward the center halfway, then fold again so both sides meet perfectly in the middle. Finally, fold one side over the other like closing a book. This folding creates the iconic palmier shape with those lovely layers of sugar and cinnamon sandwiched inside.

Step 4: Slice and Bake to Perfection

Using a sharp knife, slice your folded dough into ¼-inch thick pieces and place them evenly on your baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each so they have space to expand. Bake for about 6 minutes until they’re just starting to brown on top—then comes a little trick I love: gently flip each palmier over with a thin spatula. Bake for another 4-5 minutes until they’re golden and caramelized on both sides. Let them cool completely before diving in—trust me, that patience pays off!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers Recipe

Garnishes

I like to dust my palmiers with a little powdered sugar or a light sprinkle of extra cinnamon right before serving—it adds a pretty touch and boosts flavor. Occasionally, I’ll add a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate if I’m feeling fancy, which makes them extra special for guests.

Side Dishes

These are perfect alongside a cup of hot coffee or chai tea, making for a cozy morning or afternoon snack. I’ve also paired them with fresh fruit or a simple vanilla yogurt for a light dessert plate that always impresses.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or parties, I arrange these palmiers in concentric circles on a pretty platter or stack them in a clear glass jar tied with a ribbon for a lovely homemade gift. You can even sandwich a bit of cream cheese frosting between two palmiers for an indulgent twist that makes for a fun surprise treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They keep their crispness surprisingly well—just be sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid sogginess from trapped steam.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze the sliced, uncooked palmiers spaced apart on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time. I love this hack for last-minute treats!

Reheating

To freshen up stored palmiers, pop them back in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes. This helps restore that exquisite crunch without drying them out. Avoid the microwave—it turns them chewy, and we definitely want crisp!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I seriously can’t recommend this Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers Recipe enough—it’s become a staple in my kitchen for quick, impressive treats. The blend of buttery pastry with cinnamon sweetness feels like a hug in cookie form. Whether you’re making these for a cozy weekend or sharing them at your next gathering, I know you’ll have a blast making (and eating) them. Dive in, and don’t be surprised if they turn into your new favorite go-to snack!

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