Lemon Madeleines

Name: Lemon Madeleines
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the pan)

90 min 24 cookies Medium

All Recipes

Lemon Madeleines

Delight in the zesty flavour of Lemon Madeleines, a classic French treat boasting a light, fluffy texture and a hint of citrus.

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Total

90 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Lemon Madeleines are a timeless French delight that brings a touch of elegance to any table. Known for their distinct shell shape and delicate, buttery flavour, madeleines are a favourite among pastry lovers. The addition of lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing twist to this classic treat, making them perfect for a light dessert or an afternoon tea accompaniment. The origin of madeleines can be traced back to the Lorraine region of France, and they have since become a staple in French patisseries worldwide. Their unique texture, a cross between a cake and a cookie, is what makes them so special. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can recreate these delightful bites in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Instructions

Prepare the pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a madeleine pan with 1 tablespoon of melted butter using a pastry brush.

Pro tip: Ensure all crevices are well-coated to prevent sticking.

Mix dry ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Pro tip: This helps evenly distribute the baking powder throughout the flour.

Blend wet ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until pale and thick, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: The mixture should fall in ribbons when the beaters are lifted.

Add flavour

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into the egg mixture.

Pro tip: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavour.

Combine mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in the melted butter until smooth.

Pro tip: Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough madeleines.

Chill the batter

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Pro tip: Chilling helps develop the signature hump of the madeleine.

Fill the pan

Spoon batter into the prepared madeleine moulds, filling each about 3/4 full.

Pro tip: Avoid overfilling to prevent batter from spilling over.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centres spring back when touched.

Pro tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.

Cool and serve

Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Pro tip: Dust with icing sugar for a decorative touch.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to achieve the best texture.
Chill the batter for at least an hour to help create the signature madeleine hump.
Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the madeleine pan with butter for easy release.
Do not overfill the moulds; aim for about 3/4 full to allow space for rising.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a madeleine cake?

A madeleine is a small French cake with a shell-like shape, known for its buttery flavour and light, fluffy texture.

Are madeleines considered cookies or cakes?

Madeleines are often classified as small cakes due to their texture, which is a cross between a cake and a cookie.

How do you make lemon madeleines?

Lemon madeleines are made by incorporating lemon zest and juice into a traditional madeleine batter, then baking in a shell-shaped mould.

What is the key to getting a hump on madeleines?

Chilling the batter for at least an hour before baking helps develop the signature hump in madeleines.

Can I use other citrus instead of lemon in madeleines?

Yes, you can substitute lemon with other citrus fruits like orange or lime for a different flavour profile.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh, straight from the oven. Pair them with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a glass of sparkling lemonade for a refreshing treat. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer preservation. To serve, dust the madeleines with a light sprinkle of icing sugar or dip them in melted white chocolate for an indulgent twist. These petite cakes also make a charming gift when wrapped in a decorative box.