Teresa's Recipes
Classic French Madeleines
Indulge in the elegance of these classic French madeleines, delicate shell-shaped sponge cakes that are perfectly buttery with a delightful hint of lemon zest. Often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, madeleines are a true French culinary treasure that have charmed palates since the 18th century. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them a wonderful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a leisurely afternoon snack or a sophisticated dessert at a gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 cup, sifted All-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted and slightly cooled Unsalted butter
- 3 large Eggs
- for dusting Powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon (freshly grated) Lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 12
- Dish Type: Dessert
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 13g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a madeleine pan to ensure easy release.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and continue to mix until well incorporated.
- 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.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
- Gently remove the madeleines from the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Before serving, dust the madeleines with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla.
- Experiment with different citrus zest such as orange or grapefruit for a unique twist.
- Madeleines are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.