Want to make your kitchen smell like a pâtisserie in Paris? Then you should try making these delicious Madeleines at home.
Madeleines are buttery French sponge cakes with a slightly crispy edge that makes them just irresistible. They are known for their delicate texture and unique seashell shape meant to symbolize the scallop shell of the Way of Saint James, a pilgrimage route in Spain. They are baked in a special madeleine pan that gives them their elegant appearance.
Madeleines are one of my favorite sweet treats to bake and, most importantly, to eat! I love serving them with a pot of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a midday pick-me-up! I’ve tried what seems like hundreds of madeleine recipes, and every time I use this recipe, it delivers consistent and beautiful results. Ready in just 30 minutes, this madeleine recipe is super easy to follow, even for a novice home baker. The best part is that you probably already have all of the ingredients in your pantry—all you need now is an oven and a madeleine pan. Trust me, the latter will be worth the investment.
Are madeleines considered cookies?
Madeleines are actually a type of cake, not cookies. They are a type of French cake with a tender, spongy interior and slightly crisp edge. In the pastry world, they are often classified as “petit fours,” which is a French term used to describe a wide range of small, sweet baked goods.
How do I store leftovers?
Once they’re fully cooled, you can store any leftover madeleines in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. They will quickly defrost at room temperature.
Serving suggestions
Anytime I make a batch of sweet treats, I love serving them with a pot of hot coffee or this Copycat Starbucks Vanilla Spice Latte as a midday pick-me-up. The madeleines’ soft and fluffy texture absorbs the coffee like a sponge when dipped into it, giving it a delightful moistness that perfectly contrasts the crispy golden exterior. Beyond coffee, I love serving these madeleines as an ending to a good meal. Make these Braised Beef Short Ribs with a side of Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Brussels Sprouts, then serve these madeleines at the end for a perfect finish.
Madeleines
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
- Extra powdered sugar for optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a madeleine pan with melted butter and dust each mold with a little flour.
- In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with vanilla extract and lemon zest using an electric mixer for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and pale. Slowly add the powdered sugar while beating continuously.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gently fold this dry mix into the egg mixture using a rubber spatula until just combined.
- Slowly fold in the melted and cooled butter until the batter is smooth. Avoid over-mixing to keep the batter light.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the tops are light golden and spring back when lightly touched. Let cool in the pan for 1 minute before transferring to a cooling rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.
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