Name: Savory Bacon, Swiss, and Caramelized Onion Palmiers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 sheets puff pastry, defrosted (17-ounce package); 2 tablespoons cream-style horseradish; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 2/3 cup caramelized onions; 8 strips bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled; 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

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Introduction

These savory palmiers combine crispy bacon, nutty Swiss cheese, and sweet caramelized onions for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Flaky puff pastry wraps these flavorful fillings into elegant, bite-sized spirals. Perfect for parties or cozy gatherings, they’re sure to impress.

This image shows a close-up view of several palmier pastries arranged in neat rows on a white rectangular plate, which rests on a white marbled surface. Each pastry has a golden brown outer edge with a slight crisp texture and light beige inner layers that curl inward on both sides, forming a heart-like shape. Scattered throughout the swirled dough are small bits of what looks like a savory filling in reddish-brown and orange tones, adding a toasted and slightly caramelized texture in patches. The pastries have multiple thin, flaky layers visible along the edges, giving them a delicate and buttery appearance. The focus is sharp on the front pastries and gradually softens toward the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 sheets puff pastry, defrosted (17-ounce package)
2 tablespoons cream-style horseradish
2 cups shredded Gruyère
2/3 cup caramelized onions
8 strips bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Lay one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If needed, roll it out slightly to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Step 2: Spread 1 tablespoon of cream-style horseradish evenly over the dough. Then, evenly distribute 1 cup shredded Gruyère, 1/3 cup caramelized onions, half the crumbled bacon, and 1/2 teaspoon chopped thyme over the horseradish.
Step 3: Place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on top of the pastry and press down gently to compact the layers, or roll lightly with a rolling pin.
Step 4: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the pastry towards the center. Repeat with the opposite long edge until the two rolls meet in the middle. Dab a few drops of water where the rolls meet to help them stick together.
Step 5: Repeat the layering and rolling process with the second puff pastry sheet and the remaining ingredients.
Step 6: Wrap each pastry roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or freeze for 30 minutes, until firm but not fully frozen.
Step 7: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Unwrap the chilled rolls and slice each into 1/4-inch thick pieces, about 24 slices per roll.
Step 8: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Place palmiers 1 inch apart on the sheets.
Step 9: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and flaky, rotating the pans halfway through baking. Baking time may vary depending on how cold the pastry is before baking.
Step 10: Let the palmiers rest for 2–3 minutes, then use a thin metal spatula to loosen them from the parchment. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly and serve warm.
Step 11 (Optional Freezing): To freeze for later, freeze sliced palmiers on baking sheets until solid. Then transfer to freezer-safe bags and store for up to 1 month.
Step 12 (Baking from Frozen): When ready to bake, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place frozen palmiers 1 inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and flaky, rotating pans halfway through. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, substitute Gruyère with Swiss or mozzarella cheese.
Use caramelized shallots instead of onions for a slightly sweeter taste.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the horseradish for extra heat.
Make ahead and freeze the sliced palmiers for quick, impressive snacks anytime.

Storage

Store any leftover baked palmiers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh their crispness. Unbaked, frozen sliced palmiers keep well for up to 1 month and can be baked directly from frozen.

How to Serve

A long white rectangular plate shows a neat row of golden-brown puff pastry pinwheels, each shaped like a heart with two thick spirals meeting at the center. The outer layer is crispy and flaky with a shiny surface, while the inner spiral reveals a filling of reddish-brown bits likely made from sun-dried tomatoes and herbs, appearing slightly caramelized. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a glimpse of a purple cloth and a golden spoon on the side, giving a warm and inviting setting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramelized onions?

Yes, store-bought caramelized onions work well and save time, but homemade will give the best flavor.

Can I prepare these vegetarian?

Certainly! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding roasted mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.