Description
Madeleines are small, light, and fluffy French cakes that are shaped like scallop shells. Their unique texture and flavor make them a delightful treat for any occasion. They’re typically flavored with vanilla and a hint of citrus, often paired with tea or coffee. These cakes are soft and tender with a buttery taste, and the iconic “bump” on the back gives them a distinct appearance.
Ingredients
For the Madeleines:
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3 large eggs (room temperature)
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2/3 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
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2 tablespoons honey
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Zest of 1 lemon (optional, but traditional)
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Butter and flour for preparing molds
For Dusting (Optional):
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Powdered sugar
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Lemon glaze (recipe below)
Equipment Needed:
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Madeleine pan (12-shell capacity)
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Electric mixer
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Fine-mesh sieve
Instructions
Prepare the Pan:
- Butter the molds: Generously butter each shell-shaped mold in the madeleine pan.
- Flour the molds: Dust with flour, tapping out excess. This prevents sticking and helps create the signature texture.
- Chill: Place prepared pan in refrigerator while making batter.
Make the Batter:
- Beat eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, beat eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed for 5-8 minutes until thick, pale, and tripled in volume. The mixture should fall in ribbons when lifted.
- Sift dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Fold in flour: Gently fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- Add flavorings: Gently fold in melted butter, honey, vanilla, and lemon zest until just combined.
- Rest the batter: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours). This rest is crucial for the characteristic bump!
Bake the Madeleines:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fill molds: Spoon batter into prepared molds, filling each about 3/4 full. Don’t overfill.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
- Cool: Immediately turn madeleines out onto a wire rack. They should release easily if properly prepared.
Notes
For the perfect finish, dust your madeleines with powdered sugar just before serving. These delicate French treats are best enjoyed fresh with a cup of tea or coffee and make a lovely addition to any dessert table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 madeleine
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg