Mary Berry Palmiers Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a simple yet indulgent treat, Mary Berry’s palmiers recipe is a must-try!

These crispy, buttery delights are a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the best part is how easy they are to make. With just a few ingredients and a quick prep, you can impress guests or satisfy your own cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, Mary Berry’s foolproof instructions will ensure your palmiers turn out perfectly golden and delicious every time. Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Mary Berry Palmiers Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Palmiers are a delightful treat, combining the perfect balance of buttery, flaky pastry with a delicious sweetness. To create these crispy, caramelized pastries, you’ll need a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. These ingredients come together to form a classic puff pastry base, which is the star of this recipe.

1. Puff Pastry – The foundation of this recipe is a high-quality puff pastry, which creates the light, flaky texture of the Palmiers. You can either make your own puff pastry from scratch or use store-bought puff pastry, which works just as well for a quicker, hassle-free approach.

2. Caster Sugar – This is finely ground sugar that dissolves easily and coats the pastry beautifully. It creates the signature caramelized sweetness on the outside of the Palmiers. A generous sprinkling of caster sugar ensures that the layers of pastry puff up nicely and turn golden brown.

3. Butter – Butter is essential for creating the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. You’ll need to melt it to brush onto the pastry before sprinkling the sugar. This also helps the sugar adhere, as well as adding flavor and ensuring the puff pastry crisps up perfectly in the oven.

4. Optional: Salt – While the recipe doesn’t call for salt, a small pinch can elevate the flavors, providing a delicate contrast to the sweetness of the sugar. This touch of salt helps balance the rich buttery notes, bringing out the natural flavors of the pastry.

5. Optional: Vanilla or Cinnamon – For an extra layer of flavor, some variations of the recipe include a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon. This is entirely optional, but it can add a subtle aromatic depth that pairs wonderfully with the buttery pastry.

With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating an elegant, delicious treat that is sure to impress.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Palmiers, you don’t need much in terms of specialized equipment. However, a few essential tools will ensure that your Palmiers come out perfectly.

1. Baking Tray – A flat, sturdy baking tray is essential for even cooking. It provides the perfect base for your Palmiers to bake and caramelize evenly. Lining the tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat ensures that the pastries don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Rolling Pin – While puff pastry can be bought pre-rolled, having a rolling pin on hand will allow you to adjust the pastry’s thickness if needed. The rolling pin helps to gently flatten the puff pastry to the right size before you start folding it into the classic palmier shape.

3. Pastry Brush – A pastry brush is crucial for brushing the melted butter evenly across the puff pastry. This step is key to making sure the sugar sticks well, and that the pastry gets golden and crisp as it bakes.

4. Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter – After folding the pastry, you’ll need a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice it into individual pieces. Precision is important here, as clean cuts will help the Palmiers maintain their shape and appearance when baked.

5. Cooling Rack – Once your Palmiers are out of the oven, a cooling rack is ideal for allowing the heat to dissipate evenly, keeping the pastry crisp. Cooling the pastries on a rack also prevents them from becoming soggy from any residual moisture.

These basic tools, combined with your ingredients, will make the whole process easy and enjoyable, resulting in delicious, perfectly baked Palmiers.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Palmiers

Making Mary Berry’s Palmiers is a relatively simple process, and with a little patience and care, you’ll create a show-stopping dessert or snack that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the Oven – Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. This ensures your oven is at the right temperature for baking the Palmiers to a crisp, golden brown.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry – Roll out your sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thickness. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, this step may already be done for you. Make sure the edges are even for consistent baking.

3. Brush with Butter – Use your pastry brush to evenly coat the entire surface of the pastry with melted butter. Be sure to cover every corner and edge so the sugar sticks well to the pastry.

4. Sprinkle Sugar – After brushing the butter, generously sprinkle the caster sugar over the entire surface of the pastry. The sugar will form the signature caramelized layer once baked. If you’re adding a pinch of salt, now is the time to sprinkle it on.

5. Fold the Pastry – Now comes the fun part!

   Fold the two opposite edges of the pastry toward the center, making sure they meet in the middle. Then fold both sides in toward the center again, essentially creating a double-fold. The folds should resemble the shape of a letter “S”. You want to end up with a long, compact log of pastry.

6. Slice the Pastry – Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, carefully slice the folded pastry into 1 cm (1/2 inch) slices. You should get about 12-16 slices, depending on how big or small you want your Palmiers.

7. Place on a Baking Tray – Lay the slices flat on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart so they have room to expand as they bake.

8. Bake – Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for around 10-12 minutes, or until the Palmiers are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as they can caramelize quickly.

9. Cool and Serve – Once baked, transfer the Palmiers to a cooling rack and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, or allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will remain crisp for several days if stored properly.

Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and buttery Mary Berry Palmiers!

Expert Tips

1. Use High-Quality Puff Pastry – The better the puff pastry, the flakier and crispier your Palmiers will be. If you have time, opt for all-butter puff pastry, as it enhances the flavor and texture significantly.

2. Chill the Dough – If you’re making the dough from scratch, chilling it for at least 30 minutes after preparing the pastry folds will prevent the butter from melting too quickly when baked, giving the pastry a better rise.

3. Handle the Dough Gently – Puff pastry is delicate, so try to handle it as little as possible to avoid losing the air pockets that create the flaky texture. If your pastry becomes too soft to work with, simply place it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm it up before proceeding.

4. Watch the Sugar – Be cautious when sprinkling the sugar. You want a generous coating, but too much sugar can cause the Palmiers to burn. Keep an eye on them in the oven to ensure they don’t over-brown or become overly caramelized.

5. Personalize with Flavors – Feel free to experiment by adding flavors such as cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even finely grated zest from an orange or lemon. These small additions can elevate the flavor profile of your Palmiers and make them even more delicious.

Mary Berry’s Palmiers are a simple yet elegant treat that showcases the beauty of classic French pastry with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and basic tools, you can create a dessert that is both delicious and visually stunning.

Whether enjoyed with tea or served as a party snack, these golden, flaky pastries are sure to be a hit. With expert tips to guide you through the process, there’s no reason not to try making these delightful Palmiers at home. The result will be a sweet, buttery masterpiece that will surely impress friends, family, or guests, proving that sometimes the best treats come from the simplest recipes.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Palmiers

Mary Berry’s classic palmiers recipe is simple yet delightful, with its buttery, flaky pastry and rich flavor. But just because the base recipe is perfect doesn’t mean you can’t experiment and tailor it to your taste. There are plenty of easy variations to elevate this treat or adapt it to suit different dietary preferences.

1. Sweet Cinnamon Palmiers

One of the easiest ways to add a twist is by introducing spices. For sweet cinnamon palmiers, sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cinnamon over the pastry before rolling it up.

This gives the palmiers a warm, aromatic flavor. You can even drizzle them with a bit of icing once baked to add an extra sweet touch.

2. Chocolate Palmiers

Who doesn’t love chocolate?

To create a more indulgent version, spread a thin layer of melted chocolate or Nutella over the puff pastry before folding it into the signature palmier shape. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate work beautifully here. The rich, gooey chocolate inside the crispy pastry makes for an irresistible treat.

3. Cheese And Herb Palmiers

For a savory twist, sprinkle finely grated parmesan cheese or any cheese of your choice (Gruyère or cheddar works wonderfully) over the pastry. Then, add a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for a fragrant, savory version. You can even season with cracked black pepper or garlic powder to heighten the flavor profile.

4. Spicy Palmiers

Spice lovers can create a spicy version by mixing chili flakes, smoked paprika, and a bit of garlic powder into the sugar or cheese mix. This offers a surprising kick that balances out the sweetness or savory richness of the pastry. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes just before baking will elevate the heat and add a crunchy texture.

5. Fruit-Infused Palmiers

For a fruity twist, you can sprinkle the pastry with a thin layer of fruit jam or fresh fruit like raspberries, apricots, or strawberries. Be sure to spread the jam thinly, so the pastry doesn’t become soggy. Alternatively, small pieces of dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries mixed into the dough can create a chewy texture in contrast with the crisp pastry.

Each of these variations is easy to implement, making it simple to switch up the flavors depending on what you’re in the mood for or the ingredients you have on hand.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Palmiers are best when they are freshly baked and crispy, but sometimes there are leftovers, and knowing how to store them properly ensures that they stay delicious for a little longer.

1. Allow To Cool Completely

After baking your palmiers, let them cool completely at room temperature before storing them. If you put them away while still warm, they might become soggy due to condensation. Cooling them off ensures that the crisp texture is preserved.

2. Store In An Airtight Container

Once cool, store the palmiers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This will help maintain their crispiness for several days. If you’re storing sweet or savory versions, you can even line the container with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

3. Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover palmiers that have lost their crispiness, don’t despair. The best way to revive them is by reheating them in an oven rather than a microwave.

Place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are crispy again. Microwaving them might make them soft and chewy, which isn’t ideal for the flakiness of a palmier.

4. Freezing For Later

If you’re planning to store palmiers for longer periods, freezing is a great option. Simply allow the palmiers to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Freeze them for a couple of hours, and once they’re solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you want to enjoy them again, bake directly from frozen, increasing the baking time by a few minutes.

5. Storage For Savory Palmiers

For savory palmiers, such as the cheese and herb variety, it’s important to note that they may lose a bit of flavor intensity over time. If they start to lose their appeal after a day or two, consider repurposing them in dishes like a salad topping or a charcuterie board to give them new life.

What Goes Well With Palmiers

Palmiers are versatile and can be served as part of a wide variety of meals or occasions. Their flaky, buttery texture makes them an excellent accompaniment to many dishes, both sweet and savory.

1. Coffee Or Tea

For a casual afternoon treat or breakfast, pair your palmiers with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The sweetness of cinnamon or sugar palmiers complements the bitterness of coffee, while a light herbal or floral tea like chamomile or Earl Grey pairs wonderfully with savory palmiers.

2. Cheese Platter

Palmiers, particularly savory ones filled with cheese and herbs, are a fantastic addition to any cheese platter. Their crispy texture contrasts beautifully with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese. Pair them with some dried fruits, fresh grapes, or a drizzle of honey for a balanced bite.

3. Wine Pairing

A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs perfectly with savory palmiers. If you’ve made sweet palmiers, try pairing them with a light, fruity sparkling wine or a sweet dessert wine such as Moscato or a late-harvest Riesling.

4. Salads

Palmiers can elevate a salad by adding a bit of texture and flavor contrast. Pairing savory palmiers with a fresh, green salad works wonders, especially with salads that feature tangy vinaigrettes. A Caesar salad or an arugula-based salad with lemon and parmesan would complement the buttery flavor of the pastry.

5. Soup Or Stew

For a comforting meal, serve palmiers alongside a bowl of soup or stew. A rich tomato soup or a hearty vegetable stew will be enhanced by the crispiness of the palmiers. If you have cheese palmiers, the flavor pairing with the soup becomes even more harmonious.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s palmiers are a delightful, versatile pastry that can easily adapt to a wide range of flavors, both sweet and savory. With easy variations, you can experiment to make them your own, whether you’re craving cinnamon sugar, rich chocolate, or savory cheese.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy them for several days, and with simple reheating methods, you can keep that signature crisp texture. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, added to a cheese board, or served alongside a salad, palmiers pair beautifully with many dishes.

Their light, buttery, and flaky nature makes them a crowd-pleasing treat that can be easily customized for any occasion. So, whether you’re preparing them for a casual gathering, a brunch, or a special event, palmiers are a guaranteed hit!.

FAQs

What Are Palmiers In Mary Berry’s Recipe?

Palmiers, also known as “elephant ears”, are a type of puff pastry pastry made by folding the dough in layers, often with a sugar or savory filling. Mary Berry’s palmiers are typically sweet, with a caramelized sugar coating, but you can also make savory versions using ingredients like cheese or herbs.

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Palmiers Recipe?

To make Mary Berry’s sweet palmiers, you’ll need puff pastry, caster sugar, and butter. You may also choose to add a pinch of salt for extra flavor. For savory palmiers, you can substitute the sugar with grated cheese, mustard, or even herbs.

Can I Use Ready-made Puff Pastry For Mary Berry’s Palmiers?

Yes, you can use ready-made puff pastry for Mary Berry’s palmiers. In fact, it’s recommended for ease and convenience, especially if you’re short on time. Just make sure the puff pastry is chilled before you start rolling it.

How Do I Shape The Palmiers In Mary Berry’s Recipe?

To shape the palmiers, sprinkle sugar on a work surface, then roll out the puff pastry on top. Fold both long sides of the pastry towards the center, and then fold both sides towards each other again to form a tight roll.

Slice into individual pieces and bake. The layers will unfurl during baking, creating the signature palm shape.

How Long Do I Bake Mary Berry’s Palmiers?

Mary Berry’s palmiers are typically baked in a preheated oven at 200°C (180°C fan) for about 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly due to the sugar caramelizing.

Can I Freeze The Palmiers Before Baking Them?

Yes, you can freeze the palmiers before baking. Once you’ve shaped them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 30 minutes.

After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. You can bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy them-just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What Should I Do If My Palmiers Are Too Sticky?

If your palmiers are too sticky, it could be due to excess sugar or butter. Make sure you’re rolling the dough on a lightly floured surface or using parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you’re using sugar, a light dusting is often enough. You can also refrigerate the dough for 10-15 minutes before slicing to make it easier to handle.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Palmiers In Advance?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s palmiers in advance. You can either prepare the dough, shape the palmiers, and freeze them until you’re ready to bake, or you can bake them and store them in an airtight container for 1-2 days. For the freshest taste and texture, it’s best to enjoy them within a day or two of baking.

What Other Flavors Can I Add To Mary Berry’s Palmiers?

Mary Berry’s palmiers can be customized with various flavorings. For a savory version, consider adding grated cheese, mustard, or finely chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a sweet twist, you can also experiment with cinnamon sugar or even drizzle melted chocolate over the baked palmiers.

How Do I Know When My Palmiers Are Done Baking?

Your palmiers are done when they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as sugar can quickly burn.

If you gently press on one, it should feel firm and crunchy. If it’s still soft or doughy, continue baking for a couple more minutes.