When it comes to delicious French treats, Brittany cannot be left out. This region is famous for its rich cuisine, salted butter, and delicious pastries. A highlight among Breton specialties are Palets Bretons – deliciously buttery, crispy biscuits that are perfect for Carnival. But what makes them so special? Let’s delve into the history of this treat and discover how to make them yourself.
The History of Palets Bretons
Origin and Tradition
Palets Bretons originate from Brittany, a region in northwestern France known for its butter and salt tradition. As early as the 19th century, these biscuits were baked in Breton households – with plenty of salted butter, which is typical of Brittany.
They owe their name to the traditional Breton game “Palet”, in which metal or wooden discs are thrown onto a playing surface, similar to bocce or pétanque. The biscuits have the same round, flat shape as these playing discs, which is why they were called “Palets.”
Palets Bretons and Carnival
During Carnival in France, sweet treats take center stage—whether doughnuts, crêpes or waffles. In Brittany, Palets Bretons are among the most popular Carnival pastries, as they are easy to make and perfect for on the go. Their buttery, slightly salty flavor makes them especially delicious with a hot cup of cocoa or cider—a traditional drink of Brittany.
Recipe: Palets Bretons – Buttery Cookies from Brittany
🕒 Preparation time: approx. 45 minutes
👩🍳 Difficulty: Easy
🍪 Makes: approx. 20 pieces
Ingredients:
- 160 g salted butter (alternatively: regular butter + ½ tsp salt)
- 100 g sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 200 g flour
- ½ packet baking powder (approx. 5 g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cream the butter and sugar
- Beat the salted butter and sugar until creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the egg yolks and mix well.
2️⃣ Incorporate the flour and baking powder
- Mix the flour with the baking powder and gradually add it to the butter-sugar mixture.
- Knead everything into a smooth dough.
3️⃣ Let the dough rest
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to shape.
4️⃣ Shape and bake the cookies
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C (top/bottom heat).
- Roll out the dough to approx. 1 cm thick and cut out round cookies (e.g., using a glass or round cookie cutter, approx. 5 cm in diameter).
- Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- If desired, press a pattern into the surface with a fork.
5️⃣ Baking
- Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, until golden yellow.
- Then remove them from the oven and let them cool completely – this will make them nice and crispy.
Serving suggestions:
✔️ With coffee or tea – Perfect as an accompaniment to a hot drink.
✔️ With jam or chocolate – A sweet addition for those with a sweet tooth.
✔️ With Breton cider – The combination of sweet cookies and slightly tart apple cider is a delight.
Conclusion: Carnival indulgence in the Breton style
Palets Bretons are not only a sweet temptation, but also a piece of Breton culture. With their crispy bite and delicate buttery flavour, they are a highlight on every Carnival table in France. Whether as a sweet snack on the go or as an elegant pastry with afternoon coffee – these little delicacies are always a good choice.
Feel like baking them yourself? Then get to the dough and Bon appétit! 🎭🇫🇷✨