French Cookies, also known as Palmiers, are a delicate and buttery pastry that’s both simple and elegant. Made from layers of puff pastry coated in sugar, these cookies are shaped into hearts or palm-like shapes and baked until golden and crispy. The caramelized sugar adds a delightful crunch to every bite, making them a perfect treat for tea time, dessert, or a light snack. Palmiers are incredibly easy to prepare, yet they offer a taste of classic French patisserie that feels fancy and indulgent with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet into a large rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick.
- Add Sugar and Cinnamon:
- Evenly sprinkle the sugar (and cinnamon, if using) over the surface of the puff pastry. Press the sugar gently into the dough with your hands to ensure it sticks.
- Fold the Pastry:
- Fold the long sides of the pastry toward the center, meeting in the middle. Then fold each side again toward the center, forming a double-folded log. Slice the log into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Place the slices cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each piece. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized. Flip halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature.
French Cookies (Palmiers) are crisp, sweet, and buttery delights that melt in your mouth. With their beautiful appearance and rich flavor, these cookies are sure to impress, whether for a special occasion or just as an everyday treat.
