Name: Spiced Palmiers: Irresistibly Crunchy Holiday Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Feel free to substitute with a gluten-free blend.); 1 teaspoon Fine sea salt (No substitutions recommended.); 1 cup Cold unsalted butter (Use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.); 1/2 cup Ice water (Ensure it's very cold.); 1 tablespoon Ground cinnamon (Freshly grated nutmeg can enhance the flavor.); 1 teaspoon Ground cardamom (Can be swapped with ground ginger if needed.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground cloves (Omit if unavailable.); 1/2 teaspoon Freshly grated nutmeg (Use ground nutmeg as a substitute if absent.); 1/2 cup Granulated sugar (Brown sugar can be an alternative.)

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As I was whisking flour and spices together, the fragrant warmth of cinnamon, cardamom, and clove wafted through my kitchen like a cozy hug from winter. This was the moment I knew I was about to create some magical Spiced Palmiers. These delightful little pastries, with their flaky texture and crunchy exterior, embody the essence of holiday baking, making them a perfect homemade treat for gatherings. Plus, the best part? You’ll impress your friends and family with your very own rough puff pastry, elevating a classic recipe to a new level. Not only are these palmiers simple to make, but they also fill your home with irresistible holiday scents that transform any occasion into a special celebration. Ready to dive into this festive adventure? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!

Why Are Spiced Palmiers a Must-Try?

Irresistible Crunch: Each bite of these spiced palmiers delivers the perfect crispy exterior, making them truly unforgettable.
Warm, Festive Flavors: The harmonious blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and clove evokes holiday cheer, perfect for any festive gathering.
Simple Yet Elegant: With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning treat that rivals any bakery classic.
Homemade Goodness: Crafting your own rough puff pastry adds a personal touch, impressing even the most discerning foodies.
Versatile Delight: Serve them alongside a warm beverage or as a sweet snack during celebrations — they’re sure to please everyone!
Embrace the joy of baking with these delightful palmiers, and for more cozy recipes, check out our seasonal favorites to keep the festivities going!

Spiced Palmiers Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry

All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the pastry; feel free to substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
Fine sea salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; no substitutions recommended.
Cold unsalted butter – Essential for flakiness; always use cold butter to create those delightful layers. Use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Ice water – Helps bind the dough without making it wet; ensure it’s very cold to maintain the butter’s integrity.

For the Spiced Filling

Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness; no substitute needed, but freshly grated nutmeg can enhance the flavor.
Ground cardamom – Offers an exotic flavor twist; can be swapped with ground ginger if needed.
Ground cloves – Contributes a deep, warm spice; omit if unavailable, but it will alter the depth of flavor.
Freshly grated nutmeg – Enhances flavor profile; if absent, use ground nutmeg as a substitute.

For the Caramelized Coating

Granulated sugar – Used to coat the palmiers for a caramelized finish; brown sugar can be an alternative for a deeper flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Palmiers

Step 1: Make the Puff Pastry
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and the warm spices: cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and freshly grated nutmeg. Chop cold unsalted butter into small pieces and toss them into the flour mixture, coating the butter thoroughly. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until large pea-sized pieces remain. Create a well in the center, add ice water, and mix gently until the dough just holds together. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Folding Process
After chilling, remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about a ½-inch thickness. Fold the dough into thirds, like a letter, and wrap it again. Chill for another 30 minutes. Repeat this rolling and folding process four times to develop that desired flaky texture, ensuring to keep the dough cold and avoiding any stickiness. Each fold incorporates air, vital for making your spiced palmiers light and airy.

Step 3: Baking Preparation
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Roll out half of your chilled spiced puff pastry onto a floured surface until about ¼ inch thick. Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly on both sides of the rolled dough, then tightly roll the dough into a log shape from both ends towards the center. Chill the log for another 15 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to slice.

Step 4: Slicing and Coating
Once the log is firmly chilled, use a sharp knife to slice it into ½-inch-thick pieces. Carefully coat each side of the slices in sugar, ensuring they are well coated for that caramelized finish during baking. Arrange the coated slices on the prepared baking sheets, leaving ample space between them to allow for expansion while baking. This step is crucial to keep your spiced palmiers from sticking together.

Step 5: Baking
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the spiced palmiers for 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp on the bottom. Carefully flip each palmier and continue baking for an additional 12-15 minutes, until both sides are beautifully caramelized and the pastries have expanded to their lovely, flaky shape. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary, ensuring they don’t over-bake.

Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Once baked, remove the spiced palmiers from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheets. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, the palmiers will maintain their crispiness. Serve these delightful treats warm or at room temperature alongside a cup of tea or coffee, and let the warm, festive flavors fill your home with holiday cheer!

What to Serve with Spiced Palmiers?

The delightful crunch and warm spices of these palmiers make them perfect for complementing cozy gatherings and festive moments.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich drink balances the spiced flavors perfectly, enveloping you in warmth with every sip.
Mulled Wine: The aromatic spices in mulled wine harmonize beautifully with the palmiers, enhancing the overall sensory experience of your gathering. Its bold flavors will keep the holiday spirit alive!
Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad filled with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the rich, buttery pastry, providing a delightful burst of freshness.
Warm Apple Cider: Sipping warm apple cider alongside these pastries transports you to an autumn orchard, where the sweet and spicy notes perfectly echo the rustic charm of spiced palmiers.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Try serving these palmiers with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful interplay of warm and cold, sweet and spiced.
Cheese Platter: Pairing these pastries with a selection of mild cheeses—such as brie or goat cheese—creates a sophisticated touch, combining textures and flavors in an unexpected way.
Fruit Compote: A side of berry or citrus compote complements the palmiers’ sweetness while adding a juicy element that brightens each bite.
Coffee or Tea: Whether you prefer a robust cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea, these beverages enhance the pastry experience, inviting cozy conversations and comforting moments.

Explore these pairings to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that celebrates the flavors of the season!

Make Ahead Options

These spiced palmiers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors with convenience. You can make the rough puff pastry up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare it as per the instructions, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can slice the log of chilled pastry into pieces and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just coat them in sugar and follow the baking instructions for that heavenly, crispy finish. This way, you can effortlessly impress guests with freshly baked treats while saving valuable time for holiday preparations!

Expert Tips for Spiced Palmiers

Keep It Cold: Always work with cold ingredients to maintain the dough’s integrity. If the dough gets sticky, chill it again before continuing.
Layering is Key: Proper folding techniques create those beautiful flaky layers. Don’t rush the folding process; it’s essential for perfect spiced palmiers.
Even Sugar Coating: Ensure every slice is evenly coated in sugar. This will help achieve a consistent caramelization during baking, enhancing the flavor.
Watch Your Oven: Since ovens can vary, keep an eye on your palmiers as they bake. Remove them when they turn golden brown and crispy to avoid over-baking.
Play with Spices: Feel free to experiment! Add your favorite spices or zest, like orange, to create a unique twist on the classic spiced palmiers.

Spiced Palmiers Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful spiced palmiers with these creative ideas!

Citrus Zest: Add zest from an orange or lemon to the dough for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavors.
Nutty Surprise: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds into the filling for added texture and nutty richness.
Maple Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with maple sugar for a deeper, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with spices.
Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the palmiers for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Alternative Spices: Swap out the cinnamon for a mix of allspice and ginger for a warm, fragrant alternative.
Herbed Variation: Try adding dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory spin, perfect for those who crave a less sweet pastry.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these delightful palmiers suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Burnt Sugar Crunch: For an extra crispy texture, sprinkle raw sugar on top before baking for a delightful caramelized finish.

Enjoy exploring these variations, and if you’re intrigued by the endless possibilities of puff pastry, don’t miss our easy pastry dough guide for more inspiration!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Palmiers

Room Temperature: Store spiced palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This maintains their delightful crunch and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but be mindful that this may soften their texture slightly.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the cooled spiced palmiers individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To revive their crispiness, simply bake frozen palmiers at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Enjoy these delicious pastries anytime!

Spiced Palmiers Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my spices are fresh enough for the Spiced Palmiers?
Absolutely! Fresh spices greatly enhance the flavor of your Spiced Palmiers. Check the expiration date on the packaging, and if you can’t remember when you bought them, do a sniff test. If the aroma is weak or dull, it may be time to replace them. For the best results, use ground spices that are less than six months old.

What’s the best way to store leftover Spiced Palmiers?
Very! To keep your Spiced Palmiers crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to prolong their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, although this may make them slightly softer. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing them to avoid condensation inside the container.

Can I freeze Spiced Palmiers for later?
Yes, you can! For long-term storage, wrap your cooled Spiced Palmiers individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the frozen palmiers for about 8-10 minutes, and watch them crisp up beautifully!

What should I do if my dough becomes sticky during the folding process?
Don’t worry! If your dough happens to get sticky, it’s a sign that it needs to be cooler. Simply wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for another 15-30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to work with, ensuring you still achieve that delightful flaky texture.

Are Spiced Palmiers safe for pets or people with allergies?
Great question! The primary ingredients in Spiced Palmiers, such as flour, butter, and spices, are not toxic to pets; however, keep in mind that some, like cinnamon, can be harmful in large amounts. If anyone in your household has food allergies, be careful with substitutions (like gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose) and always read ingredient labels for allergens.

Can I make any substitutions in the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Of course! To make your Spiced Palmiers vegan-friendly, substitute cold unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. For those on a gluten-free diet, you can easily swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still taste fabulous!