Lemon Madeleine - Traditional French Madeleines

Madeleines are soft cake/cookies from France. They are noticeable for their unique shell shape. They are spongy in the middle and slightly crispy on the edges. We were introduced to these yummy goodies way back in US when we were shopping in Costco. So it goes without saying that we bulk purchased loads of them and devoured them.


It has an interesting method of preparation. Unlike most cakes which start by creaming of butter and sugar and then adding in eggs and flour, this one starts out with egg, then sugar and flour and finally melted butter. This gives it the light fluffy texture.

Today I have made a lemon flavoured Madeleine. Will be trying out different variations and will post recipes for those as well.

Ingredients (Makes 24)

Eggs 2
Vanilla extract 1/2 tsp
Lemon Zest 1/2 tsp
Icing Sugar 125 gms
Plain Flour 100 gms
Baking Powder 1/4 tsp
Butter 125 gms melted and cooled

Extra Icing Sugar for dusting.

Method of Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 190 C. Grease and flour the pan.

2. Beat eggs, vanilla and lemon zest for 5 min.

3. Gradually add icing sugar and beat for another 5 min till thick and satiny

4. Mix the baking soda and flour.

5. Fold it into the egg mix adding little at a time.

6. Fold in the melted cooled butter.

7. Fill the moulds till 3/4 full.

8. Bake for 10 to 12 min till the ends start to brown and the tops spring back

9. Cool in moulds for a minute.

10. Invert into wire rack

11. Dust with some more icing sugar (optional).

Store in an airtight container.