French Lemon Madeleines: Citrusy Tea Cakes to Enjoy

Introduction

French Lemon Madeleines are delightful tea cakes that exude a light and citrusy flavor, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. These dainty treats have a distinctive shell-like shape and a soft, buttery texture that make them a favorite among pastry lovers. In this recipe, we’ll take you through the simple steps to create your own batch of these flavorful French classics.

Ingredients

To make these delectable Lemon Madeleines, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and generously butter and flour your madeleine molds to prevent sticking.
2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
4. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix until incorporated.
5. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Gently pour the melted butter into the batter, stirring until smooth.
7. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine molds, filling each about 3/4 full.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
9. Remove from the oven and let the madeleines cool in the molds for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the madeleines with powdered sugar if desired.
11. Serve and enjoy your homemade French Lemon Madeleines with your favorite hot beverage.

These French Lemon Madeleines are a delightful treat that combines the zesty freshness of lemons with the delicate sweetness of a classic madeleine. Perfect for special occasions, afternoon tea, or simply as a sweet indulgence, these citrusy tea cakes are sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. So why not try your hand at baking these aromatic delights and savor a taste of France in the comfort of your own home?

FAQ About French Lemon Madeleines

What are French Lemon Madeleines?

French Lemon Madeleines are small, shell-shaped tea cakes that originated in France. These buttery sponge cakes are infused with lemon zest or juice, giving them a delightful citrusy flavor.

How are French Lemon Madeleines usually served?

French Lemon Madeleines are often enjoyed as a sweet treat alongside tea or coffee. They can be served as a light dessert, a snack, or even as part of a brunch spread.

What makes French Lemon Madeleines unique?

The unique shell-shaped appearance of French Lemon Madeleines, along with their delicate texture and refreshing lemon flavor, sets them apart from other traditional tea cakes.

Can French Lemon Madeleines be made ahead of time?

Yes, French Lemon Madeleines can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for a few days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can still be tasty when stored properly.

Are French Lemon Madeleines difficult to make?

While French Lemon Madeleines may seem intricate, they are actually quite simple to make. With the right ingredients and technique, you can easily bake these citrusy tea cakes in your own kitchen.