Classic French Madeleines Recipe - Hot Chocolate Hits

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the art of French baking with this classic French Butter Madeleine recipe. Inspired by a local French bakery, these Madeleines are known for their crisp exterior and soft, fluffy interior, infused with the rich flavor of brown butter and a hint of lemon zest.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter (for brown butter)
• 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 2 whole eggs
• 1/2 tablespoon of lemon zest (about the zest of one lemon)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons of Himalayan salt (for color and flavor)
• Electric mixer (for incorporating air into the batter)

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Brown Butter:

   • Place unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
   • Cook, swirling occasionally until it turns a light amber color and emits a fragrant, nutty aroma.
   • Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

   • In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Set aside for later.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

   • In a larger bowl, combine granulated sugar, eggs, and lemon zest.
   • Beat together for about 5 to 10 minutes or until the mixture doubles in volume and turns pale yellow.
   • The more air incorporated, the lighter and fluffier the Madeleines will be.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the flour mixture into the egg mixture, folding gently to retain air.
   • Mix in vanilla extract and the cooled brown butter.
   • Chill the batter for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to develop the characteristic Madeleine bump.

5. Prepare the Madeleine Pan:

   • Brush the Madeleine pan with butter, chill for 5 minutes, then brush with another layer of butter and dust with flour.

6. Bake the Madeleines:

   • Preheat the oven to 240°C (464°F).
   • Scoop 1-2 tablespoon-sized mounds of the chilled batter into each Madeleine cup.
   • Bake for 6 minutes at 240°C, then reduce the temperature to 200°C (392°F) and bake for another 3-4 minutes.
   • These baking steps ensure the perfect Madeleine with a humped back.

7. Serve:

   • Best served warm, fresh out of the oven, with tea or coffee and a dusting of confectioner's sugar.

Conclusion

These Classic French Butter Madeleines are a testament to the elegance and simplicity of French baking. The delightful combination of crisp edges and a soft, fluffy center, enriched with the flavors of brown butter and lemon, make these Madeleines a treat worth savoring. Enjoy the experience of baking and indulging in these little slices of French culinary artistry!