Description
Delight in the classic French madeleines—soft, buttery sponge cakes with a delicate crumb and signature shell shape. This recipe emphasizes techniques and ingredients to ensure your madeleines remain moist and tender, perfect for pairing with your favorite tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
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Prepare the Batter:
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add honey, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the egg mixture; mix until combined.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in three additions, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the melted butter and milk until the batter is smooth.
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Chill the Batter:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it against the surface of the batter to prevent a skin from forming.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight. Chilling helps develop the characteristic hump and keeps the madeleines moist.
-
Prepare the Molds:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Generously butter and flour the madeleine molds, tapping out any excess flour.
-
Bake the Madeleines:
- Spoon or pipe the chilled batter into the prepared molds, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
- Remove from the oven and immediately tap the pan on a counter to release the madeleines. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool.
Notes
- Storage: Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain moisture, consider adding a slice of apple or a damp paper towel to the container, ensuring it doesn’t touch the madeleines directly.
- Variations: For added flavor, dip cooled madeleines in melted chocolate or glaze with a simple sugar icing.
- Freezing: To extend shelf life, freeze madeleines in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature and warm slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes, plus chilling time
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 madeleine
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: moist madeleines, French madeleines, buttery sponge cakes, tea cakes