Cream Cheese and Caramelized Onion Palmiers Recipe

These cream cheese and caramelised onion palmiers are an ideal snack to share with family and friends. A quick, easy recipe perfect for any occasion.

This post was sponsored by PRIMULA. All opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that help make Anna Banana possible!

overhead shot of savoury palmiers arranged on a plate

If you want a fast, fuss-free appetizer to share, these savoury palmiers made with Primula Cheese ‘n’ Paprika or Cheese ‘n’ Jalapeno should be at the top of your list. They use a handful of simple ingredients and are delicious served hot or cold.

The creamy, slightly spicy Primula spreads remove the need to grate or slice cheese—you simply squeeze and spread, which makes assembly quick and convenient. Their smooth texture melts nicely and adds smoky or tangy notes that complement the caramelised onions.

side close up of a small ramekin filled with cream cheese

What are palmiers?

Palmiers are classic French pastries shaped like palm leaves. Made from puff pastry, they bake into crisp, flaky layers and work well in both sweet and savoury versions. Since it had been a while since I posted a savoury recipe (my Butternut Squash and Goats Cheese Tart was the last one), I chose a savoury take on this buttery treat.

super close up of cream cheese and caramelised onion palmiers on white surface

Super easy and effortless recipe

This recipe is wonderfully simple. Whether you’re hosting friends, preparing a snack for family, or need a last-minute appetizer, these palmiers fit the bill. The recipe requires minimal prep and yields impressive results with little effort.

top view of plate with cheese and onion palmiers

The Primula spreads are also high in protein and calcium, gluten free and suitable for vegetarians, making them a convenient choice for many diets. They come in several flavours and are simple to use—no grating or melting required.

  • overhead process shot of a person squeezing soft cheese on puff pastry sheet
  • top view of puff pastry sheet with soft cheese spreaded all over it

I chose caramelised onion for the filling because its sweetness pairs beautifully with creamy, spicy cheese. The onions add depth and balance that lift the whole bite. If you prefer other fillings, try sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, olives, spinach, or ham—palmiers are very adaptable.

  • top view of a person rolling one side of puff pastry sheet
  • top view of person rolling side of puff pastry sheet towards the middle

These palmiers are great for entertaining because you can prepare them ahead of time. Assemble the rolled pastry and chill it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking, or freeze pre-sliced palmiers to bake from frozen when needed.

overhead shot of slices of puff pastry with cheese ad onion on a baking tray
close up at puff pastry palmier filled with cream cheese and caramelised onion

Can palmiers be made ahead?

Yes. You can prep the pastry, spread the cheese, add the onions and roll everything up, then wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, slice the roll into 12–15 pieces and bake until golden. For longer storage, freeze the pre-sliced palmiers on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen for about 15–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden.

side shot of savoury palmiers with caramelised onion

Thanks for reading. If you try this recipe, please leave a rating or comment—I’d love to hear how it turned out.

top view of a plate filled with cream cheese and caramelised onion palmiers

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📖 Recipe

side close up of savoury palmiers on white surface

Cream cheese & caramelised onion palmiers

Savoury palmiers with spicy cream cheese and caramelised onion. A quick, easy snack and ideal appetizer for any gathering.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Chilling time20 minutes
Total Time47 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: French
Keyword: pinwheels, savoury palmiers
Servings: 15 palmiers
Calories:
Author: Anna Wierzbinska

Equipment

  • baking tray
  • baking paper

Ingredients

  • 1 pack ready-rolled puff pastry (320 g)
  • 150 g Primula Cheese ‘n’ Paprika or Cheese ‘n’ Jalapeno
  • 1 medium red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried chilli flakes (optional)
  • 1 medium egg (beaten)

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and caramelised. Set aside to cool slightly.
  • Roll out the puff pastry and spread the soft cheese evenly over the surface. If using, sprinkle dried chilli flakes, then scatter the caramelised onion over the cheese.
  • With the long edge of the pastry facing you, roll each side toward the center until they meet. Brush the outside with beaten egg and chill the roll in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up.
  • Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan). Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone mat. Using a very sharp knife, slice the chilled roll into 12–15 slices. Arrange the slices on the tray and bake for 10–12 minutes, turning the tray halfway through, until the palmiers are puffed and golden.

Note: All my recipes are developed and tested using metric measurements. For the most accurate results use digital scales. A US customary conversion is provided but has not been tested by me.

Did you make this?Tell me how you liked it—leave a comment or tag @anna_wierzbinska on Instagram with a photo. I love seeing your versions of my recipes!

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