Raspberry Palmiers

Introduction

Raspberry Palmiers are the perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, offering a crisp, buttery pastry filled with a vibrant layer of sweet-tart raspberry jam. These golden, caramelized treats are as delightful to make as they are to eat, with their intricate heart shape and irresistible flaky texture. Perfect for tea time, brunch spreads, or just a little indulgence with your coffee, Raspberry Palmiers are a crowd-pleasing pastry that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare.

My first attempt at Raspberry Palmiers was for a springtime gathering, and they were an instant hit. As they baked, the kitchen was filled with the warm, buttery aroma of puff pastry mingling with the fruity scent of raspberries. Watching the thin slices of pastry transform into perfectly golden, heart-shaped swirls felt magical. The raspberry jam caramelized just enough to create a sticky, flavorful layer, balancing the crispness of the puff pastry.

These pastries are a wonderful way to elevate simple ingredients into something truly special. They’re versatile, too—swap the raspberry jam for apricot, fig, or even a cinnamon-sugar filling to suit your mood or occasion. Serve them as a light dessert, an afternoon treat, or even packaged as edible gifts. With their beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor, Raspberry Palmiers are guaranteed to bring a touch of joy to any table!

Perfect for

• Afternoon tea parties
• Holiday dessert trays
• Casual family snacks
• Gifting during special occasions
• Impressing guests with minimal effort

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Palmiers

Here’s why Raspberry Palmiers will quickly become one of your go-to recipes:

• Quick and Easy: With ready-made puff pastry and a few simple steps, this recipe comes together in less than an hour.
• Customizable: Swap out the raspberry preserves for your favorite jam or fruit spread to create endless flavor variations.
• Beautiful Presentation: The heart-shaped design and golden, caramelized exterior make these pastries a stunning addition to any dessert table.
• Kid-Friendly: Simple ingredients and a sweet, fruity filling make them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: These pastries can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 12-16 palmiers
• Calories per serving: Approximately 120-140 calories

Ingredients

To make Raspberry Palmiers, you’ll need:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (approximately 8-10 inches square), thawed if frozen
• 1/3 cup raspberry preserves (preferably seedless)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
• Flour, for dusting
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Ingredient Highlights

• Puff Pastry: Provides the light, flaky layers essential for classic palmiers.
• Raspberry Preserves: Adds a sweet, tangy burst of flavor and a vibrant color.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances caramelization for beautifully golden edges.
• Lemon Zest: Optional, but adds a refreshing citrus note that complements the raspberry filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Thaw and Roll Out: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to form a smooth, even square, approximately 10 inches on each side.
2. Trim Edges: Use a sharp knife to trim the edges for a clean, professional finish (optional).

Spread the Filling

3. Add Raspberry Preserves: Spread a thin, even layer of raspberry preserves over the surface of the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow.
4. Optional Lemon Zest: Sprinkle lemon zest over the preserves for added brightness.

Shape the Palmiers

5. Fold: Starting from one side, gently roll the pastry inward toward the center. Repeat with the opposite side until both rolls meet in the middle.
6. Chill: Wrap the rolled pastry tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the shape during slicing and baking.

Slice and Coat

7. Cut: Using a sharp knife, slice the chilled roll into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
8. Coat in Sugar: Dip each piece lightly in granulated sugar, ensuring even coverage on both sides.

Bake the Palmiers

9. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
10. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the palmiers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 1 inch of space between them.
11. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pastries are golden brown and caramelized.
12. Cool: Allow the palmiers to cool on a wire rack before serving.

How to Serve Raspberry Palmiers

Raspberry Palmiers are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• As-Is: Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a simple treat.
• With Tea or Coffee: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.
• With Whipped Cream: Serve alongside a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
• On a Dessert Platter: Include them on a tray with other small pastries or cookies for a stunning presentation.
• As a Gift: Package in a decorative box or bag for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Additional Tips for Raspberry Palmiers

For perfect Raspberry Palmiers, keep these tips in mind:

• Keep Pastry Cold: Always work with cold puff pastry to ensure the layers remain distinct during baking.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid using too much raspberry preserves, as it may leak during baking.
• Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to flip the palmiers halfway through baking for even caramelization.
• Use Parchment Paper: Prevent sticking and make cleanup easy by using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try other fruit preserves, such as apricot, strawberry, or blueberry, for variety.

Recipe Variations for Raspberry Palmiers

Here are 10 variations to customize your Raspberry Palmiers:

1. Chocolate Raspberry Palmiers: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the baked pastries for a decadent touch.
2. Almond Raspberry Palmiers: Sprinkle slivered almonds over the preserves before folding for added crunch and flavor.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Palmiers: Skip the raspberry preserves and coat the pastry in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before folding.
4. Lemon Raspberry Palmiers: Add lemon curd alongside the raspberry preserves for a zesty twist.
5. Berry Medley Palmiers: Use a mix of raspberry, strawberry, and blueberry preserves for a colorful variation.
6. Nutella Raspberry Palmiers: Spread a thin layer of Nutella along with the raspberry preserves for a chocolatey treat.
7. Rose Raspberry Palmiers: Add a few drops of rosewater to the preserves for a delicate floral note.
8. Savory Palmiers: Replace the raspberry preserves with pesto or tomato paste for a savory version.
9. Orange Raspberry Palmiers: Use orange marmalade alongside the raspberry preserves for a citrusy blend.
10. Glazed Palmiers: Brush the baked pastries with a simple sugar glaze for added shine and sweetness.

Freezing and Storage for Raspberry Palmiers

• Freezing: Unbaked palmiers can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store baked palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness.

Special Equipment for Raspberry Palmiers

Here are some tools to help you make Raspberry Palmiers with ease:

1. Rolling Pin: Ensures an even puff pastry layer.
2. Sharp Knife: For clean, precise slices.
3. Pastry Brush: Useful for adding a sugar glaze or brushing off excess flour.
4. Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking.
5. Cooling Rack: Helps pastries cool evenly and maintain their crisp texture.
6. Small Offset Spatula: Ideal for spreading preserves evenly.
7. Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for the sugar and preserves.

FAQ Section for Raspberry Palmiers

1. Can I use homemade puff pastry?
   Yes, homemade puff pastry works wonderfully if you have the time to prepare it.
2. What other fillings can I use?
   Apricot jam, fig preserves, or even a thin layer of peanut butter work well as alternatives.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, use a high-quality gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free version.
4. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
   Grease your baking sheet lightly or use a silicone mat instead.
5. Why did my palmiers lose their shape?
   Overfilling or under-chilling the pastry can cause it to lose shape during baking.
6. How do I prevent the preserves from leaking?
   Leave a small border around the edges and use just enough preserves to coat the pastry thinly.
7. Can I use frozen fruit instead of preserves?
   Frozen fruit can be cooked down with sugar to create a quick homemade filling.
8. Do I need to flip the palmiers?
   Flipping halfway ensures even caramelization, but it’s optional.
9. How can I make them more festive?
   Add colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for a fun, festive look.
10. Can I use sugar substitutes?
    Yes, granular sugar substitutes like erythritol can be used, but caramelization may differ.

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Conclusion

Raspberry Palmiers are a delightful way to indulge in a touch of elegance with minimal effort. These flaky, golden pastries, with their beautifully caramelized edges and the burst of raspberry sweetness, are a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients come together to create a dessert that feels both sophisticated and accessible. Whether you’re serving them as a stunning centerpiece for an afternoon tea or as a sweet finish to a dinner party, Raspberry Palmiers are guaranteed to impress.

Their versatility shines, too; swap out the raspberry for your favorite jam or even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate chips for a unique twist. These pastries are perfect for any occasion, from a cozy gathering to an elegant soirée.

I can’t wait for you to bake these irresistible Raspberry Palmiers! Be sure to share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you make them your own. Enjoy every flaky, fruity bite!