Pesto, Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Palmiers 🟢🍅🧀✨
Golden, flaky pastry spirals bursting with vibrant pesto, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and gooey melted mozzarella
There’s something irresistibly elegant about Pesto, Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Palmiers fresh from the oven. Each palmier is crispy, buttery, and golden on the outside, with layers of flaky puff pastry enveloping a filling of herby pesto, sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes, and melty mozzarella. They are perfect as appetizers, snacks, or party treats, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
These palmiers balance rich, nutty pesto, sweet, chewy tomato, and creamy, stretchy mozzarella, all wrapped in delicate layers of buttery pastry. Unlike ordinary savory snacks, these palmiers feel sophisticated yet approachable, ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a flavorful treat at home.
Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack, a fancy cocktail party, or a family gathering, these Pesto, Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Palmiers are guaranteed to disappear fast.
Why Everyone Loves These Palmiers
These palmiers are flaky, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile.
What makes them so special?
Golden, crisp puff pastry
Rich pesto flavor with herbs and garlic
Sweet, chewy sun-dried tomatoes
Creamy mozzarella that melts beautifully
Elegant, bite-sized presentation
Perfect for parties, picnics, or appetizers
Simple ingredients, impressive result
They’re the ultimate combination of savory, cheesy, herby, and flaky.
What Are Pesto, Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Palmiers?
Palmiers are delicate, buttery puff pastry spirals traditionally sweet, but in this savory version, they are filled with:
Pesto – basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil
Sun-dried tomatoes – sweet and concentrated
Mozzarella cheese – melty, creamy, and mild
The filling is rolled inside puff pastry, chilled for stability, then sliced and baked to create golden, crisp, and buttery spirals.
The result is a snack that is:
Savory
Cheesy
Herby
Flaky
Perfectly bite-sized
Flavor Profile: What to Expect
Taste
Fresh, aromatic basil from the pesto
Savory, garlicky notes
Sweet, concentrated sun-dried tomato
Mild, creamy mozzarella
Buttery puff pastry complementing every flavor
Texture
Crisp, golden pastry exterior
Soft, gooey melted cheese inside
Slight chew from tomato
Tender, airy layers of pastry
Aroma
Warm butter from baked puff pastry
Basil, garlic, and herbs from pesto
Roasted tomato sweetness
Each bite is crispy, savory, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.
Preparation Overview
Time Needed
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour
Difficulty Level
Intermediate
Yield
About 20–24 palmiers, depending on size
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
3–4 tablespoons basil pesto
8–10 sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), sliced thinly
1 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Best Ingredients for the Best Result
High-quality puff pastry – for maximum flakiness
Fresh basil pesto – vibrant, aromatic flavor
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil – sweeter and tender
Mozzarella – fresh or low-moisture shredded for melting without excess water
Equipment You May Need
Rolling pin
Sharp knife or pizza cutter
Baking tray
Parchment paper or silicone mat
Small bowl for egg wash
Spoon or spatula
How to Make Pesto, Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Palmiers (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 10x12 inches (25x30 cm).
Ensure edges are straight and even for uniform rolling.
Step 2: Spread the Pesto
Evenly spread pesto over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border on all sides.
The pesto adds flavor and acts as a barrier to prevent cheese leakage.
Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cheese
Layer thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes evenly over the pesto.
Sprinkle or layer mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the tomatoes.
Optional: small fresh basil leaves can be added for extra aroma and color.
Step 4: Roll the Palmiers
Start rolling both long edges toward the center, meeting in the middle to create a double spiral.
Use gentle but firm pressure to keep layers tight.
Step 5: Chill for Stability
Wrap the rolled pastry in plastic wrap.
Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
Chilling prevents cheese from spilling and ensures even baking.
Step 6: Slice the Palmiers
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Remove the chilled roll and slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife.
Place palmiers on a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing slightly apart.
Step 7: Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops lightly with beaten egg.
This creates a golden, glossy finish during baking.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
Rotate tray halfway through baking for even color.
Keep an eye near the end to avoid over-browning.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let palmiers cool 5 minutes on the tray, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Palmiers
Chill dough before slicing – keeps spirals intact
Even layers of filling – prevents uneven baking
Thin, uniform slices – ensures even puff and crispness
Use egg wash – adds shine and golden color
Don’t overbake – avoid dark or bitter edges
How to Serve Them Beautifully
Arrange on a platter for parties or snacks
Serve warm for gooey cheese, or room temperature for crispness
Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan
Perfect with wine, tea, or a sparkling beverage
Perfect Pairings
Fresh green salad or caprese salad
Tomato soup for dipping
Aperitif drinks like Prosecco or light white wine
Herb-infused olive oil for dipping
Delicious Variations
Prosciutto & Pesto Palmiers – swap mozzarella for thin prosciutto slices
Sun-Dried Tomato & Goat Cheese – tangy goat cheese instead of mozzarella
Spicy Version – add red pepper flakes to pesto
Mini Bite-Sized Palmiers – slice thinner for cocktail appetizers
Gluten-Free Puff Pastry – for dietary needs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Slicing too thick → uneven baking
Overfilling → cheese leaks
Skipping chilling → spirals lose shape
Overbaking → dry or burnt edges
Uneven rolling → distorted spirals
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble and chill in advance; bake fresh when needed
Slice and freeze unbaked palmiers for up to 1 month, bake directly from freezer
Storage Tips
Room temperature: Airtight container, up to 2 days
Freezing: Freeze baked palmiers up to 1 month, reheat briefly for crispness
Approximate Nutritional Notes (Per Palmier)
Calories: 120–150
Protein: 4–6 g
Fat: 7–10 g
Carbohydrates: 12–15 g
A savory, cheesy, herby bite perfect for snacks, appetizers, or festive occasions.
Final Thoughts
These Pesto, Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Palmiers are crispy, buttery, cheesy, and herby—an elegant yet simple appetizer or snack. The combination of golden puff pastry, aromatic pesto, sweet sun-dried tomato, and melty mozzarella makes them irresistible.
Perfect for parties, afternoon snacks, or a family treat, these palmiers are sure to impress anyone who bites into their delicate, flavorful layers.