Orejas
Orejas, also known as palmiers or elephant ears, are delicate, flaky pastries made from puff pastry dough that is folded and caramelized with sugar. Originating in France as 'palmiers' but widely adopted in Spanish-speaking countries as 'orejas' (meaning 'ears'), they are a beloved treat in bakeries and homes across Latin America and Spain.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
These pastries are very high in carbohydrates and fat, primarily from the butter in the puff pastry and the sugar coating, with minimal protein. A typical serving of two small orejas provides roughly 150-200 calories, offering quick energy but little in the way of essential nutrients.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbs | 30 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Calcium | 30 mg |
| Potassium | 60 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.05 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.8 mg |
| Folate | 15 µg |
| Phosphorus | 40 mg |
Per 2 pieces (approx. 60 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, orejas are a staple of Spanish and Latin American 'merienda' (afternoon snack) traditions, often enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate. Their unique, ear-like shape comes from a simple folding technique that creates hundreds of flaky layers, making them a visually appealing yet straightforward homemade pastry.
