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Classic French Palmiers Puff Pastry Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar
By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished May 2, 2026 · Updated May 12, 2026
French
25 mins
beginner-friendlyeasystep-by-stepclassiccomfort-foodminimal-ingredientssnackno-fusspartykid-friendly
Learn how to make Classic French Palmiers—crispy, buttery puff pastry cookies coated with sweet cinnamon sugar. This easy beginner-friendly recipe requires minimal ingredients and yields elegant cookies perfect for parties, snacks, or kid-friendly treats.
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Total
25 min
Servings
24
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
French
Ingredients
Servings
24
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (thawed according to package instructions)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
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In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to create even cinnamon sugar.
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Lightly sprinkle a tablespoon of the cinnamon sugar mixture onto a clean work surface.
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Unfold the thawed puff pastry sheet carefully onto the sugared surface. Evenly sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar over the top of the pastry.
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Use a rolling pin to gently press the cinnamon sugar into the puff pastry, ensuring it sticks well and spreads evenly.
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Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the pastry toward the center until you reach the middle. Repeat rolling the opposite long edge toward the center so both sides meet.
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Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on a sheet of parchment paper. Place the rolled pastry log onto the sugared parchment and lightly dust more cinnamon sugar on top.
-
Using a very sharp knife, slice the pastry log into approximately 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick slices to form individual palmiers.
-
Arrange each slice cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies for expansion.
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Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with a light dusting of extra cinnamon sugar.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes until the palmiers puff up, turn golden brown, and caramelize slightly.
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Remove from the oven and allow the palmiers to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Serve these crisp, buttery French palmiers with tea or enjoy them as a delightful snack anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reader questions and answers for this recipe will appear here.
If you want to adapt this beginner-friendly French palmiers recipe for dietary preferences or ingredient availability, try these simple swaps that maintain flaky texture and sweet cinnamon flavor:
- Puff Pastry: Use vegan puff pastry found in many stores, or gluten-free puff pastry for gluten-sensitive diets—texture may slightly vary.
- Granulated Sugar: Substitute coconut sugar or granulated low-calorie sweeteners like erythritol for reduced sugar versions.
- Ground Cinnamon: Alternate with warm spices like nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, or cardamom-clove mixes to vary flavor yet keep cookies comforting and kid-friendly.
These ingredient swaps ensure the palmiers stay quick, delicious, and suitable for diverse dietary needs while preserving their classic buttery crispness—perfect for any occasion.
Equipment Needed
To bake these Classic French Palmiers successfully, you'll need essential kitchen tools that make the process easier and beginner-friendly.
- Baking Sheet: A flat, rimmed baking sheet ensures even baking and fits comfortably in your oven.
- Parchment Paper: Non-stick paper lines the baking sheet, prevents sticking, and simplifies cleanup.
- Rolling Pin: Gently presses the cinnamon sugar into the puff pastry for an even coating and adherence.
- Sharp Knife or Chef’s Knife: A very sharp blade is crucial for slicing the rolled pastry log into thin, uniform slices without crushing the dough.
- Mixing Bowl: To blend granulated sugar and ground cinnamon evenly.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: For precise measurement of sugar and spices to maintain balanced flavor.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the palmiers to cool completely while retaining a crispy texture.
These simple tools help beginners bake elegant, buttery cookies with confidence and ease.
Ingredient Prep Notes
Preparing Puff Pastry: Thaw puff pastry according to package instructions, usually about 30-40 minutes at room temperature until pliable yet cool. This prevents tearing and promotes even puffing during baking.
Mixing Sugar & Cinnamon: Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly to ensure an even cinnamon sugar coating and rich flavor. You may substitute granulated sugar with fine cane sugar or coconut sugar for varied texture and taste.
Ingredient Substitutions: For dairy-free or vegan options, choose puff pastry labeled vegan or free from animal products. Check for nut-free labeling if allergies are a concern.
Flavor Variations: While cinnamon sugar is classic, try pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, or cinnamon-nutmeg blends for seasonal and flavorful twists—all beginner-friendly.
Observing these prep tips ensures a smooth baking experience making crisp, elegant palmiers ideal for novice bakers.
Oven Note
Proper oven settings are key for achieving palmiers’ delicate, crispy texture and caramelized golden color. These beginner oven tips will help you bake perfectly every time:
- Fully Preheat: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking, as puff pastry requires immediate high heat to rise properly.
- Use Middle Rack: Place the baking sheet in the center rack for even heat distribution and uniform browning.
- Minimize Door Opening: Avoid opening the oven door during baking to maintain stable temperature and crisp layers.
- Rotate Baking Sheet: If you notice uneven heating, rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even caramelization.
- Watch Closely near End: Palmiers can quickly go from golden perfect to burnt; monitor carefully in the last few minutes.
- Cool on Baking Sheet: Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack to maintain crispness.
Mastering these oven tips results in palmiers that are perfectly puffed, buttery, and golden each bake.
Easy Ways to Customize Classic French Palmiers
- Chocolate Dip: Dip half of each cooled palmier in melted dark or milk chocolate for a decadent, kid-friendly twist.
- Nutty Texture: Add finely chopped pistachios or almonds with cinnamon sugar before rolling for extra crunch and flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Sprinkle dried orange or lemon zest on top before baking to brighten and freshen the flavor.
- Spiced Variations: Enhance the cinnamon sugar with ground ginger or nutmeg for cozy seasonal flavors.
- Herbal Flavor: Mix finely chopped fresh rosemary into the sugar for a sweet-savory note perfect with tea or coffee.
- Glaze Drizzle: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze after baking for extra sheen and sweetness.
- Vegan & Dairy-Free: Use vegan puff pastry and organic cane sugar to keep treats plant-based without sacrificing flavor.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked rolled logs wrapped tightly; slice and bake fresh for quick elegant snacks anytime.
These creative upgrades make your palmiers stand out for parties, school snacks, or cozy homemade comfort food occasions.
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