As a passionate home cook and a mom of three, I have always cherished the art of cooking. I inherited this love from my mom and grandma, who taught me the joy of preparing delightful dishes for family and friends. Today, I want to share a special recipe that always brings smiles to my table: Madeleines. These little shell-shaped sponge cakes have their roots in France and are perfect for tea time or any occasion. Their unique texture and light flavor make them a favorite in our home. Baking madeleines is not only simple, but it’s also a wonderful way to spend time together in the kitchen with my kids, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I hope you’ll love them as much as we do!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Madeleines Cookies
- They are easy to make and perfect for beginners.
- Madeleines are light and fluffy, making them great for any occasion.
- They can be flavored with lemon, vanilla, or other ingredients to suit your taste.
- These delightful treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Ingredients for Madeleines Cookies
Here’s what you will need to create these delicious Madeleines:
For the batter:
- 2 large eggs
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 120ml heavy cream
- 125g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 115g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tsp lemon zest or vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Madeleines Cookies
- Prepare the batter: In a bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest or vanilla.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture.
- Add the melted butter: Slowly incorporate the melted butter into the batter, mixing just until combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Bake the Madeleines: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a madeleine pan. Spoon about 1 tbsp of batter into each mold. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden with a small hump.
- Cool and serve: Let the madeleines cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Pro Tips for Madeleines Cookies
- Chill the batter: Always refrigerate the batter for at least one hour. This helps achieve that perfect hump on the madeleines.
- Use a proper pan: A madeleine pan is essential for getting the iconic shape.
- Don’t overmix: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle to keep the batter light.
- Experiment with flavors: Try adding orange zest or a splash of almond extract for variation.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that your butter is melted and slightly cooled to avoid cooking the eggs.
- The batter can also be stored in the fridge overnight for baking the next day.
- These madeleines can be enjoyed plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Pair with a fruit compote for a delicious dessert.
- Enjoy them as a sweet snack for kids after school.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a more indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 27 minutes (including chilling)
- Calories per serving: 130 kcal
- Servings: 12
Nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
Storage & Leftovers
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Enjoy straight from the freezer or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make Madeleines without a special pan?
- A madeleine pan is recommended for the best results, but you can use mini muffin tins in a pinch.
- How do I know when they are done?
- Madeleines should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
- Can I freeze the batter?
- Yes, you can freeze the batter for up to a month. Just thaw overnight before baking.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream?
- You can use milk, but the texture will be different; they may not be as rich.
- How can I flavor my Madeleines differently?
- You can try different citrus zests, vanilla, almond, or even spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.
More Delicious Recipes
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:
Conclusion
Madeleines are more than just a delightful treat; they are a joyful way to connect with family and share love. Each soft, buttery bite is a reminder of gatherings over tea and the simple pleasures of life. By following this straightforward recipe, you can create these delicious, elegant cakes in your own kitchen. Whether it’s for a family afternoon or a special gathering, these Madeleines will surely impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let the aroma of freshly baked Madeleines fill your home. Happy baking!
PrintMadeleine Cookies Recipe Using Cream
- Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These classic French Madeleines are light, buttery, and delicately sweet. With their signature shell shape and soft texture, they are perfect for tea time or any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the batter:
- 2 large eggs
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 120ml heavy cream
- 125g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 115g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tsp lemon zest or vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest or vanilla.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture.
- Add the melted butter: Slowly incorporate the melted butter into the batter, mixing just until combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Bake the Madeleines: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a madeleine pan. Spoon about 1 tbsp of batter into each mold. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden with a small hump.
- Cool and serve: Let the madeleines cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Chill the batter for at least an hour to achieve the perfect hump.
- A madeleine pan is essential for the iconic shape.
- Be gentle when folding the dry ingredients to keep the batter light.
- Experiment with different flavors such as orange zest or almond extract
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
Keywords: madeleines, French cookies, tea cakes, classic madeleines, easy dessert recipe