Description
These classic French Madeleine cookies are light, buttery, and delicately sweet with a golden hue and signature shell shape. Achieving the perfect texture — crisp edges with a soft, spongy center — is easier than you think. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create flawless madeleines that melt in your mouth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar for about 8-10 minutes until pale and fluffy. This step creates the light texture that madeleines are known for.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the egg mixture using a spatula, being careful not to overmix.
- Add Butter and Cream: Gently fold in the melted butter and heavy cream until just combined. The batter should be smooth and thick.
- Chill the Batter: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). Chilling enhances flavor and helps achieve the signature “bump.”
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a madeleine pan with butter and dust lightly with flour.
- Fill the Molds: Spoon the chilled batter into the madeleine molds, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden and the signature “bump” has formed.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
- For chocolate-dipped madeleines, melt dark chocolate and dip one side of each cooled cookie for a decadent twist.
- Adding orange zest, almond extract, or lavender can create delightful flavor variations.
- To achieve the perfect signature bump, ensure your batter is well-chilled before baking.
- Store madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months for long-term enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Protein: 2 g