- Sift Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Whisk Eggs and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes). This step incorporates air and gives the Madeleines their light texture.
- Add Flavor:
- Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the batter.
- Add Butter:
- Gently fold in the melted butter in batches until the batter is smooth and glossy.
Step 2: Chill the Batter
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This chilling step helps create the signature hump when baked.
Step 3: Prepare the Madeleine Pan
- Grease and Flour:
- Brush each cavity of the Madeleine pan with melted butter, ensuring every corner is coated. Dust with flour and tap out any excess.
- Place the prepared pan in the refrigerator while the batter chills.
Step 4: Fill the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of batter into each cavity of the prepared pan. Do not spread the batter; it will settle and spread as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Madeleines
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the characteristic hump has formed.
- Remove from the oven and immediately tap the pan on a flat surface to loosen the Madeleines.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Transfer the Madeleines to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Tips for Perfect Madeleines
- Chilling the Batter: Don’t skip this step—it’s crucial for achieving the signature hump.
- Pan Prep: Ensure the pan is well-buttered and floured to prevent sticking.
- Don’t Overfill: A tablespoon of batter per cavity is enough; too much will overflow and lose the iconic shape.
- Serve Fresh: Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh, within a few hours of baking.
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to restore their softness.
Enjoy these classic French Madeleines with a cup of tea or coffee. Their elegant shape, buttery flavor, and tender crumb make them a timeless treat you’ll want to bake again and again! Bon appétit!