Gingerbread Palmiers Recipe
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry Brush
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Sharp Knife
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour, for dusting
- 250g (2 sheets) puff pastry, thawed
- 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 15g (1 tbsp) ground cinnamon
- 10g (2 tsp) ground ginger
- 2g (1/2 tsp) ground cloves
- 2g (1/2 tsp) ground nutmeg
- 2g (1/2 tsp) allspice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar with 15g (1 tbsp) ground cinnamon, 10g (2 tsp) ground ginger, 2g (1/2 tsp) ground cloves, 2g (1/2 tsp) ground nutmeg, and 2g (1/2 tsp) allspice. Stir until all the spices are evenly distributed in the sugar. This mixture will provide the gingerbread flavor in your palmiers.
Step 2: Roll Out the Puff Pastry
Lightly dust your work surface with 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour. Unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry and roll it out to a rectangle approximately 30×40 cm (12×16 inches).
Step 3: Add the Spiced Sugar
Sprinkle half of the spiced sugar mixture evenly over the rolled pastry, pressing it gently to adhere. Be sure to cover every part of the pastry for even flavor distribution.
Step 4: Shape the Palmiers
Starting from one long edge, fold the pastry towards the center. Do the same with the opposite edge until both meet in the middle. Then, fold one side over the other as if closing a book. You will now have a layered log. Repeat with the second sheet of puff pastry and the remaining spiced sugar.
Step 5: Slice the Palmiers
Using a sharp knife, slice the pastry logs crosswise into 1 cm (1/2 inch) thick slices. You should get about 24 slices per log. Arrange them cut-side-up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each palmier for expansion.
Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash
Using a pastry brush, gently coat the tops of each palmier with the beaten egg. This will give them a shiny, golden finish as they bake.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the palmiers in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, then flip each one and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until both sides are golden brown and caramelized.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the palmiers from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve at room temperature and enjoy the delightful blend of crispy pastry and gingerbread spices!
Conclusion
Congratulations on making your very own batch of Gingerbread Palmiers! These delicate and flavorful pastries are sure to add a touch of holiday magic to your celebrations.
Additional Notes
Pastries are not merely a delightful indulgence; they embody the essence of the holiday spirit with every morsel. The act of baking and sharing these delicious treats can transform a simple gathering into a memorable event, brimming with joy and warmth. As you prepare to delight your friends and family—or even as you treat yourself to a quiet moment of pleasure with a steaming cup of tea—these palmiers stand out as a festive favorite.
Feel free to let your culinary creativity loose by experimenting with a variety of spice blends until you find the one that best captures your holiday cheer. The versatility of these spices allows you to customize your pastries to suit any palate. And as you take time to enjoy these delightful creations, remember to pause and savor the richness of the moment, for it is these little pleasures that make the season truly special.
