How to Make Palmiers: The Classic French Puff Pastry Biscuit

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction: What Are Palmiers?

Palmiers, also known as elephant ears or French hearts, are light, crispy pastries made from puff pastry and sugar. Their beautiful heart shape and caramelised, golden crust make them a delightful treat with tea or coffee. Despite their elegant appearance, palmiers are incredibly easy to make at home with just two main ingredients.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make palmiers using shop-bought puff pastry, perfect for a quick homemade French pastry experience.

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Ingredients (Makes 20–24)

1 sheet of ready-rolled all-butter puff pastry (approx. 320g)

100g granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)

A pinch of sea salt (optional, for balance)

Optional flavour twists:

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla sugar

Zest of 1 orange or lemon

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Equipment Needed

Baking tray

Baking parchment or non-stick baking mat

Rolling pin

Sharp knife

Pastry brush (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Palmiers

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / Gas Mark 6.

Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Surface

Sprinkle a clean work surface with half of the sugar. Unroll the puff pastry onto the sugared surface. This sugar underneath will help caramelise the bottom of the palmiers.

Sprinkle the remaining sugar evenly over the top of the pastry. You can also add cinnamon or citrus zest at this point if desired.

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Step 3: Roll and Fold

Using a rolling pin, gently press the sugar into both sides of the pastry to help it stick.

Now, fold the long edges of the pastry towards the centre so they meet in the middle. Then fold them in again towards the centre. Finally, fold one half over the other like closing a book. You should have a long, narrow log of pastry with six layers.

Chill the folded log in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up (this helps cleaner cuts).

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Step 4: Slice and Arrange

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into pieces about 1cm thick. Place the slices cut side up on the baking tray, leaving plenty of space between them to allow for puffing and spreading.

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Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12–15 minutes, then flip each palmier over carefully with a spatula and bake for another 5–8 minutes until golden brown and caramelised on both sides.

Keep a close eye on them—sugar can burn quickly!

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Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Transfer the palmiers to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.

Serve with tea, coffee, or as part of an afternoon treat selection.

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Tips for Perfect Palmiers

Use granulated sugar: It gives the best caramelised texture.

Chill the pastry log before slicing to get neat, even shapes.

Flip halfway through baking for even caramelisation.

Don’t overbake: Watch closely during the last few minutes.

Use all-butter puff pastry for the most flavour and flakiness.

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Flavour Variations

Want to add a twist to your palmiers? Try these ideas:

Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers: Add 1 tsp ground cinnamon to the sugar.

Lemon Zest Palmiers: Mix grated lemon zest into the sugar for a fresh zing.

Chocolate Palmiers: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped dark chocolate before folding.

Savoury Palmiers: Use grated cheese, pesto, or tapenade instead of sugar for a delicious snack.

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Storage Advice

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Recrisp in the oven at 160°C for 5 minutes if needed.

Freeze before baking: Place raw palmiers on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the time.

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How to make palmiers

Easy palmier recipe UK

French puff pastry biscuits

Homemade palmiers with puff pastry

Caramelised puff pastry hearts

Quick French dessert with sugar and pastry

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Learn how to make palmiers, the classic French puff pastry biscuits, with this easy British-style recipe. Light, crispy, and caramelised – perfect with tea or coffee.

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Conclusion

Palmiers may look like they came straight from a patisserie, but they’re one of the easiest French pastries to make at home. With just puff pastry and sugar, you can create a crisp, sweet treat that’s both elegant and satisfying. Perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or a little everyday indulgence.