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Perfect Classic French Madeleines Recipe with Brown Butter Lemon Honey Glaze

classic French madeleines - featured image

Light and buttery classic French madeleines with a rich brown butter and bright lemon honey glaze, perfect for tea time or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, browned and cooled slightly
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter. Keep stirring until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder. Set aside.
  3. Whisk eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, whisk 2 large eggs and 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar vigorously for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.
  4. Add flavorings: Stir in the zest of 1 lemon and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the egg mixture.
  5. Combine wet and dry: Gently fold the sifted flour mixture into the egg mixture in two batches, careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth but still airy.
  6. Incorporate browned butter: Slowly drizzle the cooled browned butter into the batter while folding gently.
  7. Chill the batter: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously butter and flour your madeleine pan.
  9. Fill the molds: Spoon batter into each mold cavity about 3/4 full.
  10. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers spring back lightly when touched.
  11. Cool: Remove from oven and let the madeleines cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  12. Prepare glaze: Whisk 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional) in a small bowl until smooth.
  13. Glaze and serve: While madeleines are still warm, brush the glaze generously on top. Let sit for a few minutes to soak in.

Notes

Chilling the batter is key to achieving the classic hump and tender crumb. Brown butter carefully to avoid burning. Use fresh lemon zest and juice for best flavor. If madeleines brown too quickly, reduce oven temperature by 10-15°F and extend baking time slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: madeleines, French dessert, brown butter, lemon honey glaze, easy baking, tea time treats