Palmieri

Palmieris: Crunchy Delights with Sugar Canelure

Who doesn't love a sweet, crunchy, and fragrant snack? Palmieris, also known as "hearts" due to their characteristic shape, are pastries made from flaky dough that perfectly combine a crunchy texture with the sweetness of caramelized sugar. These delights are easy to prepare, and the final result will surely impress anyone who tastes them. Moreover, they are ideal to be served with coffee or tea.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 500 g flaky dough or puff pastry (can be bought or made at home)
- 1 cup (approximately 200 g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1-2 packets of vanilla sugar

The History of Palmieris

The origins of palmieris are not very clear, but it is believed that these pastries were created in France, having deep roots in pastry tradition. They have evolved over time, becoming a popular dessert in various forms, depending on local ingredients and personal preferences. Their characteristic shape, reminiscent of hearts, makes them not only delicious but also very visually appealing.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. If you choose to use store-bought puff pastry, let it soften at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to handle it easily.

2. Mixing the sugars: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, vanilla sugar, and cinnamon. This mixture will give a special flavor to your palmieris. It is important to use brown sugar, as it adds moisture and a deeper flavor, caramelizing beautifully during baking.

3. Dividing the dough: Cut the puff pastry into two equal parts. This will facilitate rolling and shaping the palmieris.

4. Sprinkling the sugar: Sprinkle a portion of the sugar mixture on a flat surface. Place one part of the dough over the sprinkled sugar and use a rolling pin to roll out the dough, incorporating the sugar into it. Repeat this process with the other part of the dough.

5. Rolling the dough: From both ends, start rolling the dough towards the center. Continue until the two rolls meet in the middle. This technique is essential for creating beautiful layers of puff pastry.

6. Cutting the palmieris: Once you have rolled the dough, cut it into strips about 1 cm wide. Place these strips on their sides on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave space between them, as they will expand during baking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Bake the palmieris for 15-20 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. It is important to keep an eye on them in the last minutes, as they can brown very quickly.

8. Cooling and serving: Once ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a cooling rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature, preferably alongside a cup of coffee or fragrant tea.

Practical Tips

- Variations of the recipe: You can add other flavors, such as nutmeg or lemon zest for a fresh note. You can also experiment with different types of sugar, such as coconut sugar, for a more exotic taste.

- Cooling the dough: If you are working with homemade dough, make sure to refrigerate it for 30 minutes before use. This will help maintain the crunchy texture.

- Serving: For an elegant presentation, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top of the palmieris after they have cooled. Add some fresh fruits or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside for a special dessert.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of palmieris contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on their size and the ingredients used. Brown sugar not only provides sweetness but also minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron. Consumed in moderation, this dessert can be a good choice for an occasional sweet snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of dough? Yes, you can experiment with muffin dough or even cookie dough for a different texture.

- How can I enhance the flavor? You can add rum or almond extracts to the sugar mixture for an extra flavor.

- What drinks pair best with palmieris? We recommend mint tea or espresso coffee, but a sweet wine would also be an excellent choice for a festive meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to unleash your creativity and prepare these delicious palmieris. Whether you serve them on a special occasion or simply indulge yourself, these pastries will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!