Desserts

Madeleines

Madeleines
These buttery, shell-shaped sponge cakes feature a delicate hint of lemon zest and honey, offering a tender crumb and crisp golden edges. Perfectly paired with afternoon tea or coffee, they are the quintessential French treat for any occasion.

Prep

20m

Cook

10m

Serves

12


1 Ingredients

Qty Ingredient
0.5 cup 115 g Unsalted Butter
2 pieces 2 pieces Large Eggs
0.5 cup 100 g Granulated Sugar
1 tbsp 15 ml Honey
1 tsp 2 g Lemon Zest
1 tsp 5 ml Vanilla Extract
1 cup 125 g All-purpose Flour
0.5 tsp 2 g Baking Powder
1 pinch 1 g Salt

2 Method

1

Step 1. Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until golden brown and smelling nutty, then set aside to cool to room temperature.

2

Step 2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, and honey together for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture is pale, thick, and leaves a trail when the whisk is lifted.

3

Step 3. Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together in a separate bowl to remove any lumps.

4

Step 4. Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a silicone spatula, using a light hand to avoid deflating the air bubbles.

5

Step 5. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract, then slowly pour the cooled melted butter down the side of the bowl, folding it in until just incorporated.

6

Step 6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight; this temperature shock is what creates the iconic hump.

7

Step 7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously brush a madeleine pan with melted butter and dust with flour, tapping out any excess.

8

Step 8. Spoon or pipe about one generous tablespoon of the chilled batter into the center of each shell mold; do not spread the batter out to the edges.

9

Step 9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers have risen into a tall hump and spring back when touched.

10

Step 10. Immediately turn the madeleines out of the pan onto a wire rack to cool; they are best served warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

💡 Chef's Tips

  • ·

    Chilling the batter is non-negotiable if you want the classic 'bosselé' or hump on the back of the madeleine.

  • ·

    Browning the butter (beurre noisette) adds a rich, nutty depth of flavor that separates good madeleines from great ones.

  • ·

    Do not over-grease the pan with liquid oil; use softened butter and a light dusting of flour for the best release and texture.

  • ·

    Use a metal madeleine pan rather than silicone for better heat conduction and crispier edges.

? FAQ

Why didn't my madeleines get a hump?
The hump is caused by a temperature shock between the cold batter and the hot oven. Ensure your batter is chilled for at least 2 hours and your oven is fully preheated.
Can I make the batter in advance?
Yes, you can keep the batter in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. In fact, many pastry chefs prefer the flavor after a longer rest.
How do I store baked madeleines?
Madeleines are best eaten within an hour of baking. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but they will lose their crisp edges.
Can I freeze madeleines?
Yes, you can freeze baked madeleines for up to a month. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.

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