Introduction

When it comes to delightful French pastries, madeleines hold a special place in the hearts of many. These soft and flavorful sponge cakes are easy to make and incredibly versatile. This particular recipe features the refreshing zest of lemon and the unique crunch of poppy seeds, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon treat or a dessert, lemon and poppy seed madeleines are sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 100 g of all-purpose flour
– 80 g of sugar
– 80 g of butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds
– A pinch of salt

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in french

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 madeleines

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a madeleine tray with butter to ensure the madeleines do not stick.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine 160 grams of flour, 5 grams of baking powder, and 30 grams of poppy seeds. Mix these ingredients thoroughly and set aside.

Whisk the Eggs and Sugar

In another bowl, whisk together 3 eggs and 100 grams of sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy.

Add the Wet Ingredients

Incorporate 125 grams of melted butter and the juice of one lemon into the egg and sugar mixture. Mix well until fully combined.

Combine Both Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid over-mixing. Ensure that there are no lumps and the batter is smooth.

Let the Batter Rest

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps develop the madeleine’s texture.

Fill the Madeleines Tray

After resting, remove the batter from the refrigerator. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine tray, filling each mold about 2/3 full.

Bake the Madeleines

Place the filled tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the madeleines are golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.

Cool the Madeleines

Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the madeleines cool in the tray for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Flavor Variation

Feel free to add lemon zest to enhance the lemon flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store the madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Serving Suggestion

Madeleines can be served plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Cook techniques

Beating Eggs

When preparing the batter, ensure you beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is pale and frothy. This process incorporates air, which contributes to the lightness of the madeleines.

Resting the Batter

Allowing the batter to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This helps the flavors to meld and results in a better texture when baked.

Filling the Molds

When filling the madeleine molds, avoid overfilling them. A small amount of batter should suffice since the madeleines will expand during baking.

Baking Temperature

Baking the madeleines at the right temperature is essential for achieving the characteristic hump. Start at a higher temperature before lowering it to ensure they bake evenly and maintain their shape.

Cooling the Madeleines

Once baked, allow the madeleines to cool slightly in the molds before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy and helps maintain their crispness.

FAQ

Can I use other flavors instead of lemon and poppy seeds?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors such as orange zest, chocolate chips, or other extracts to customize the madeleines to your preference.

How should I store the madeleines?

Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.

Can I freeze madeleines?

Yes, madeleines can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

What should I do if my madeleines don’t have the characteristic hump?

If your madeleines lose their hump, check if the batter rested long enough and the oven temperature was correctly set. Both steps are crucial for achieving the desired shape.

What is the origin of madeleines?

Madeleines are traditionally associated with France, particularly with the Lorraine region, and have a rich history in French patisserie.

Conclusion

The lemon and poppy seed madeleines are a delightful combination that brings a perfect balance of zestiness and texture. These treats are not only easy to make but also offer a refreshing twist to traditional madeleines. Ideal for any occasion, they can be enjoyed as a sweet snack or paired with tea for a cozy afternoon.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Orange and Almond Madeleines

For a citrusy twist, try substituting lemon with orange zest and adding almond extract. This combination will create a fragrant and nutty flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee.

Chocolate Chip Madeleines

Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a classic sweet touch. The rich chocolate complements the buttery madelein texture, perfect for chocolate lovers.

Lavender and Honey Madeleines

Add dried lavender and a drizzle of honey to the batter for a floral and sweet experience. These madeleines are great for special occasions or as a unique dessert option.

Coconut and Lime Madeleines

Introduce shredded coconut and lime zest for a tropical flair. These madeleines offer a delightful chewy texture and refreshing taste, ideal for warm weather gatherings.

Matcha Green Tea Madeleines

Incorporate matcha powder into the batter for a vibrant green color and earthy flavor. These madeleines are not only visually appealing but also bring a healthful aspect to your dessert selection.