Madeleines
Delicate French shell cakes, known for their distinctive hump and tender, buttery crumb. A classic treat, famously associated with Proust's literary recollections.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 Large Eggs(at room temperature)
- 150 g Granulated Sugar
- 150 g All-purpose Flour
- 150 g Unsalted Butter(melted and slightly cooled)
- 1 tsp Baking Powder
- 1 Lemon Zest(from 1 medium lemon, finely grated)
- 2 tbsp Honey(warmed slightly, if crystallized)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together the room temperature eggs and granulated sugar. Continue whisking vigorously for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is pale, thick, and forms ribbons when the whisk is lifted. This process incorporates air, which is crucial for the cake's texture.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Add the warmed honey and lemon zest to the egg mixture and whisk until just combined. The honey adds a subtle moisture and flavor.
⏱️ 1 minute - 3
Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder directly over the egg mixture. Gently fold them in using a spatula until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop gluten and make the madeleines tough.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Gradually drizzle in the melted and slightly cooled unsalted butter while continuing to fold. Ensure the butter is fully incorporated, creating a smooth, homogenous batter. The batter will be quite liquid.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the batter to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate the batter for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2-3 hours (or even overnight). This chilling period is essential for the characteristic hump to form during baking.
⏱️ 1-3 hours - 6
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Generously butter and flour your madeleine molds, or spray them with non-stick baking spray. Ensure each cavity is well-coated.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 7
Remove the chilled batter from the refrigerator. Give it a gentle stir. Spoon or pipe the cold batter into the prepared madeleine molds, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. Avoid overfilling.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 8
Place the filled molds onto a baking sheet and immediately transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a distinct hump has formed on the back of each madeleine. The tops should spring back when lightly touched.
⏱️ 10-12 minutes - 9
Carefully remove the madeleines from the molds while still warm. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They are best enjoyed the same day they are baked.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The contrast between cold batter and a hot oven is key to achieving the signature hump. Ensure your oven is fully preheated.
- ✓Do not overfill the madeleine molds; this can cause the batter to spread too much and prevent the hump from forming properly.
- ✓For optimal texture and flavor, madeleines are best consumed within a few hours of baking.
- ✓If using shell-shaped molds, ensure they are well-greased and floured to prevent sticking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Dip cooled madeleines halfway into melted dark or white chocolate.
- Add a pinch of dried lavender flowers to the dry ingredients for a floral note.
- Infuse the butter with citrus peel (orange or lime) for a different flavor profile.