Singaporean Chinese Style Coconut Palets

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional French Palets de Dames are transformed into a Singaporean Chinese delight by incorporating the flavors of coconut. The original recipe's simplicity and elegance are maintained, but the addition of coconut adds a tropical twist that is popular in Singaporean Chinese cuisine. This adaptation also highlights the cultural exchange between French and Singaporean Chinese culinary traditions, creating a unique and flavorful pastry. We alse have the original recipe for Palets de dames, so you can check it out.

• 200g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour 200g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 50g (1/2 cup) desiccated coconut 50g (1/2 cup) desiccated coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 13g, 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, desiccated coconut, baking powder, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. 6.
   Roll the dough into small balls, about 2cm in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and allow the Coconut Palets to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Desiccated coconut — Make sure to use unsweetened desiccated coconut for an authentic flavor. If you prefer a stronger coconut taste, you can lightly toast the coconut before adding it to the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced coconut flavor, you can substitute coconut extract for vanilla extract.
• If you prefer a sweeter pastry, you can sprinkle the Coconut Palets with a little powdered sugar before serving.
• These Coconut Palets are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Coconut Palets as a delightful afternoon snack or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be served as part of a dessert platter or gifted to friends and family.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Coconut Palets on a serving platter, allowing their golden-brown color to shine. You can garnish the platter with fresh coconut shavings or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.