Introduction
These delicate French Madeleines have a delightful citrus twist, making them perfect with tea or coffee. Light, buttery, and slightly crisp on the edges, they are irresistible!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
100g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
2 large eggs
100g granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon zest
100g all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/8 tsp salt
20ml whole milk
Icing sugar for dusting
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 27 mins (including chilling)
Yield: 12 madeleines
Directions
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing well.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, ensuring a smooth batter.
5. Stir in the melted butter and milk until fully incorporated.
6. Cover the batter and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
7. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a madeleine pan with butter and lightly dust with flour.
8. Spoon the batter into the molds, filling each about ¾ full.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden and springy to the touch.
10. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then transfer to a wire rack.
11. Dust with icing sugar before serving.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1:
In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy.
Step 2:
Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing well to combine.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4:
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, ensuring that the batter remains smooth.
Step 5:
Stir in the melted butter and milk until the mixture is fully incorporated.
Step 6:
Cover the batter and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
Step 7:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a madeleine pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour.
Step 8:
Spoon the batter into the molds, filling each about ¾ full.
Step 9:
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the madeleines are golden and springy to the touch.
Step 10:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before transferring the madeleines to a wire rack.
Step 11:
Dust with icing sugar before serving.
Notes
Note 1:
For optimal results, allow the batter to chill for longer, preferably overnight.
Note 2:
Ensure the oven is preheated properly to achieve the perfect rise on the madeleines.
Note 3:
Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients to maintain a light texture.
Note 4:
These madeleines are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
Note 5:
Experiment with other citrus zests such as orange or lime for a different flavor twist.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration
If you prefer to keep them longer, you can refrigerate the madeleines in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the madeleines in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in a preheated oven before serving.
Serving Suggestions
With Beverages
Serve madeleines warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Garnishes
Consider pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of lemon curd to enhance their citrusy flavor.
Occasions
These madeleines are perfect for celebrations, brunches, or as a simple dessert after dinner.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 madeleine)
Calories: 100
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 25mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 2g
Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients or portion sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Butter
Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar
Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia for a healthier choice.
Whole Milk
Swap whole milk for almond milk or any other plant-based milk for a lactose-free variation.
Lemon Zest
Orange zest can be used instead of lemon zest for a different citrus flavor.
Flour
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Cook Techniques
Whipping Eggs and Sugar
In this technique, eggs and sugar are beaten together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which contributes to the light texture of the madeleines.
Folding Ingredients
Folding is a gentle mixing technique used to combine dry and wet ingredients without deflating the batter. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in dense madeleines.
Chilling the Batter
Refrigerating the batter for at least an hour (or overnight) allows the flavors to develop and helps achieve the characteristic hump of the madeleine when baked.
Greasing the Pan
Properly greasing and flouring the madeleine pan ensures that the pastries can be easily released after baking. This prevents sticking and maintains the madeleine’s shape.
Baking Temperature
Baking at the correct temperature (180°C) is essential for achieving a golden crust while keeping the insides light and airy. Monitor the madeleines closely in the last few minutes to prevent overbaking.
Cooling Properly
Allowing madeleines to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their texture. This step prevents steaming on the bottom while promoting even cooling.
FAQ
Can I use other citrus flavors instead of lemon?
Yes, you can substitute lemon zest with orange, lime, or even grapefruit zest for a different citrusy twist.
Why do my madeleines not have a hump?
A lack of chilling time or not enough air incorporated during the egg-sugar beating can prevent the iconic hump from forming.
How should I store leftover madeleines?
Store madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last for a couple of days.
Can I freeze madeleines?
Yes, madeleines can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I serve with madeleines?
Madeleines pair wonderfully with tea or coffee, but they can also be served with a light fruit compote or alongside creamy desserts.
Conclusion
These Madeleines with a citrusy twist are a delightful treat that can elevate any tea or coffee time. Their light and buttery texture, combined with the refreshing zest of lemon, makes them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, these little cakes bring a touch of elegance to any occasion.
Orange Zest Madeleines
Try replacing lemon zest with orange zest for a sweeter, slightly more aromatic version of these classic treats.
Grapefruit Infused Madeleines
Add grapefruit zest and a touch of grapefruit juice to the batter for a tangy flavor that adds a unique twist.
Chocolate Citrus Madeleines
Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter and mix in some orange zest for a decadent chocolate-orange combination.
Herb-Infused Madeleines
Add finely chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, along with lemon zest to create a savory-sweet flavor profile.
Coconut Lime Madeleines
Replace some of the milk with coconut milk and add lime zest for a tropical flavor that’s perfect for warm days.
Matcha Citrus Madeleines
Incorporate matcha powder along with lemon or lime zest for a refreshing treat with earthy undertones.
Berry Citrus Madeleines
Fold in some mashed raspberries or blueberries along with citrus zest for a fruity explosion in every bite.