Classic French Madeleines

Ingredients

All-purpose flour

1 cup, sifted

Granulated sugar

3/4 cup

Unsalted butter

1/2 cup (1 stick), melted and slightly cooled

Eggs

3 large

Powdered sugar

for dusting

Lemon zest

1 tablespoon (freshly grated)

Vanilla extract

1 teaspoon

Salt

1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a madeleine pan to ensure easy release.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and continue to mix until well incorporated.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
7. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
8. Gently remove the madeleines from the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Before serving, dust the madeleines with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.