Cannelés de Bordeaux

Name: Cannelés de Bordeaux
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 800 min
Yield: 12 cannelés
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 500 ml whole milk; 50 g unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing); 1 whole vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped); 100 g all-purpose flour (sifted); 250 g granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 egg yolks; 60 ml dark rum

800 min 12 cannelés Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in these delightful French pastries with a caramelized crust and tender, custardy interior.

Prep

20 min

Cook

60 min

Total

800 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Cannelés de Bordeaux are a classic French pastry, originating from the Bordeaux region. Known for their unique shape and texture, these small cakes boast a rich, caramelized crust with a soft, custard-like interior. They are traditionally flavoured with vanilla and rum, making them a favourite for those who enjoy delicate, aromatic desserts. Creating the perfect cannelé is an art that combines precision and patience. The batter requires an overnight rest to develop its distinct flavours and achieve the ideal consistency. Though they may seem intimidating at first, with the right technique and tools, you can bring a piece of Bordeaux to your own kitchen.

Instructions

Prepare the milk mixture

In a saucepan, heat the milk, butter, and vanilla bean (both seeds and pod) on medium until the butter melts. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Pro tip: Do not boil the milk; just warm it enough to melt the butter.

Combine dry ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour and sugar. Create a well in the centre.

Mix wet and dry ingredients

Gradually pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add eggs, egg yolks, and rum, and mix until smooth.

Pro tip: Strain the batter if there are lumps for a smooth consistency.

Chill the batter

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the batter for at least 12 hours or overnight.

Pro tip: Chilling enhances the flavour and texture of the final cannelés.

Prepare the moulds

Preheat the oven to 240°C (465°F). Grease the moulds with butter.

Pro tip: Using a pastry brush can help coat the moulds evenly.

Bake the cannelés

Fill each mould about 3/4 full with the chilled batter. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (355°F) and bake for another 45 minutes.

Pro tip: The cannelés are done when deeply caramelized and easily release from their moulds.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure the batter rests overnight for optimal flavour and texture.
Use copper moulds for the best results, but silicone moulds work too.
Preheat the oven well to achieve a perfect caramelized exterior.
Do not overfill the moulds to avoid spillage and uneven baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cannelé?

A cannelé is a small French pastry with a caramelized crust and a soft, custardy interior, flavoured with vanilla and rum.

How long do cannelés de Bordeaux last?

Cannelés are best eaten fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Can I make cannelés without rum?

Yes, you can substitute the rum with an equal amount of vanilla extract or omit it entirely for a non-alcoholic version.

What type of moulds are best for cannelés?

Copper moulds are traditional and provide the best results, but silicone moulds are a convenient alternative.

How do I achieve a caramelized crust?

Ensure the oven is well-preheated and the moulds are adequately greased. Bake initially at a high temperature to caramelize the exterior.

Serving Suggestions

Cannelés are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. To rejuvenate their crispness, briefly reheat them in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. Serve these delightful treats with a cup of coffee or tea for a quintessential French experience. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of dessert wine or champagne for a more indulgent pairing.

Nutrition per serving

195

Calories

Protein

Fat

Indulge in these classic chocolate éclairs made with choux pastry shells, filled with creamy vanilla pastry cream, and topped with a luscious chocolate glaze.

Medium110 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Tableware · Wine Glasses

GLAZVIA Brown Wine Glasses Set of 6, 12oz Stemmed Glasses, Thick & Colored

$29.99

Food Storage · Reusable Bags

Dishwasher Safe Reusable Storage Bags Stand Up - BPA Free PEVE Reusable Sandwich Bags - Leakproof Gallon Freezer Bags, Silicone Food Storage Bags (12 Pack- 12Sandwich)

$23.99

Pit Boss Grills

Apple Blend Hardwood Pellets

$12.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.