There are certain foods that simply belong to Palm Beach. The Palm Beach Puff is one of them.
Its exact origin is a little fuzzy, but this delicate hors d'oeuvre became a fixture of Palm Beach entertaining during the island's golden age in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, it's just as beloved, appearing at everything from intimate dinner parties to elegant charity galas.
If you've spent any time in Palm Beach during the season, you've probably heard someone ask between sips of an ice-cold martini, "Have the puffs come out yet?" It's a fair question. No matter what else is being passed—lobster, caviar, crab cakes, or elegant tartlets—a tray of warm Palm Beach Puffs is almost always the first to disappear.
Like so many Palm Beach classics, every hostess has her own version. Some add Dijon mustard, Gruyère, Worcestershire, or herbs. Mine has remained blissfully simple.
I love these because they're elegant, wonderfully light, and easy to make ahead. I keep a batch in the freezer so they're always ready to pop under the broiler when friends stop by or an impromptu cocktail gathering comes together. My only non-negotiable is a pinch of red pepper flakes—just enough to wake up the Parmesan without overpowering it.
Holly's Simple Palm Beach Puffs
Makes: About 70 one-bite rounds
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Pepperidge Farm Thin-Sliced White or Butter Bread
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely grated onion
- 2 egg whites
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional—but highly recommended!)
Directions: Cut 1¼-inch rounds from the bread. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Combine the Parmesan, mayonnaise, onion, seasonings, and red pepper flakes, then gently fold in the egg whites. Spread onto the bread rounds. Freeze if making ahead. Broil for 10–12 minutes until puffed and lightly golden. Serve immediately while warm.
About Holly Holden
Holly Holden is a Palm Beach-based author, designer, and etiquette expert who has spent more than 35 years celebrating the art of gracious living. Through her books, the weekly Secrets to Lovely Living newsletter, and her devoted Instagram community @HollyHoldenDesign, she shares recipes, entertaining inspiration, and timeless Palm Beach style. Visit www.hollyholden.com to learn more.