Butterfly shortbread, also known as “Palmiers” or “pig’s ear biscuits”, is a classic dessert originating in France. Its name comes from its shape, which resembles a butterfly with its wings outstretched. This shortbread is loved by people all over the world for its crispy texture and sweet taste.
The origin of butterfly shortbread biscuits
The history of butterfly shortbread can be traced back to the 19th century in France. The process of making this shortbread is very simple, but it requires a certain amount of skill. Traditional butterfly shortbread biscuits are made from layers of puff pastry and white sugar, which are baked and caramelized to form a golden and crispy crust.
The production process
The process of making butterfly shortbread cookies is mainly divided into the following steps:
- Prepare the puff pastry: First, you need to prepare a high-quality puff pastry. This puff pastry is usually made from flour, butter, and a little water, and needs to be folded and refrigerated repeatedly to ensure that each layer is evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle with sugar: Roll out the puff pastry into thin slices and sprinkle an even layer of white sugar on the surface. This layer of sugar caramelizes during the baking process, creating the unique sweetness and golden color of the butterfly shortbread.
- Fold & Cut: Fold the sugared puff pastry from the sides to the middle until it forms a long strip. Then cut the long strips of puff pastry into small pieces, each about 1 cm wide.
- Baking: Place small pieces of sliced puff pastry flat on a baking sheet and slightly flatten the sides to form the shape of butterfly wings. Bake in a preheated oven at 200 degrees until the shortbread is golden brown and the crust is crispy.
Variations of butterfly shortbread biscuits
Over time, the methods and flavors of butterfly shortbread biscuits have gradually diversified. Some makers add ingredients such as chocolate, cinnamon or nuts to the traditional recipe to add flavor. In addition, there are innovative versions of butterfly shortbread that use whole wheat flour or low-sugar recipes to cater to the needs of modern people for a healthy diet.
Butterfly shortbread biscuits are not just a delicious dessert, they also carry a rich cultural significance. In France, butterfly shortbread biscuits are often found during afternoon tea or coffee breaks, making them a delicious companion for a leisurely moment. In other parts of the world, butterfly shortbread biscuits are also popular for their simplicity and crispy texture.
With its unique shape and delicious taste, butterfly shortbread biscuits have become a classic French dessert. It’s simple but fun to make, and it’s a wonderful experience whether it’s do-it-yourself or sharing it with family and friends. This classic dessert not only makes people taste a strong French style, but also a sweet historical heritage.
