Madeleines are delicate French tea cakes with a distinctive shell-like shape and a light, fluffy texture.
These classic treats are perfect for serving alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Madeleines are surprisingly easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients.
With this recipe, you can recreate the irresistible flavor and texture of traditional Madeleines right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Equipment
- Madeleine pan(s)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease your madeleine pan(s) with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until pale and thick, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the vanilla extract and salt, and whisk until combined.
Add the Dry Ingredients:
Sift the flour and baking powder into the bowl with the wet ingredients.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula until just combined.
Incorporate the Butter:
Pour the melted butter over the batter and gently fold it in until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
Fill the Madeleine Pans:
Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pans, filling each mold about three-quarters full.
Tap the pans lightly on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.
Bake the Madeleines:
Place the filled madeleine pans in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the madeleines are golden brown around the edges and spring back when lightly pressed.
Cool and Serve:
Remove the madeleine pans from the oven and let the madeleines cool in the pans for a few minutes.
Then, carefully transfer the madeleines to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Dusting:
Once cooled, dust the madeleines with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Storage Instructions:
Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made.
However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Recipe Variations:
Add lemon zest or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
Dip the cooled madeleines in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Sprinkle finely chopped nuts or seeds over the batter before baking for added texture.
Nutritional Information:
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: 110 kcal per madeleine
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 2g
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is traditional for madeleines, you can experiment with other types of flour such as cake flour or almond flour for different textures.
Do I need a special madeleine pan?
Yes, a madeleine pan is essential for achieving the classic shell shape of madeleines.
You can find madeleine pans at most kitchen supply stores or online.
Can I make mini madeleines?
Yes, you can use a mini madeleine pan to make smaller-sized madeleines.
Adjust the baking time accordingly, as mini madeleines will bake faster than standard-sized ones.
Can I freeze the madeleine batter?
Yes, you can freeze madeleine batter in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Thaw the batter in the refrigerator overnight before using, then proceed with filling and baking as usual.
How can I prevent my madeleines from becoming dry?
Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense and dry madeleines.
Additionally, avoid overbaking the madeleines, as they should be moist and tender in the center.