If you love light, airy, and buttery treats, these Lemon Raspberry Madeleines are about to become your new favorite dessert. Madeleines, the classic French sponge cakes, are renowned for their signature shell shape and delicate crumb. This recipe elevates them by incorporating the fresh zest of lemon and the natural sweetness of raspberries, culminating in a delightful treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Madeleines are a quintessential French pastry that can transport you to a cozy Parisian café with each bite.
Perfectly suited as an afternoon tea companion, these light treats can be enjoyed alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. They’re versatile enough to serve as a quick breakfast or as a light dessert to end a meal on a high note. The combination of zesty lemon and juicy raspberries ensures that each madeleine bursts with bright, fruity flavor, making them an irresistible choice for fruit lovers.
With a relatively simple preparation process, anyone can master this easy French pastry recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these Lemon Raspberry Madeleines provide a delightful baking experience and a beautiful end product. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Raspberry Madeleines
- Fluffy Texture: The unique shell shape and light crumb make these madeleines enjoyable to bite into.
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of lemon zest and raspberries creates a refreshing balance between tart and sweet.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal cooking skills but yields impressive results.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an elegant tea party or a casual brunch, these pastries fit right in.
- Versatile Base: Madeleines are a blank slate, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and fillings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delectable recipe, it’s essential to prepare your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering all the ingredients mentioned above. You’ll need basic kitchen tools such as measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, an electric mixer, and a spatula. The star of this recipe, however, is the madeleine pan, which gives the pastry its distinct shell shape. Make sure to grease the madeleine molds thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Select a clean, flat workspace to mix your ingredients efficiently. Having everything needed at hand will streamline the cooking process, so you won’t find yourself scrambling for essential tools or items. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready. Taking these preparatory steps will not only help you make perfect madeleines but also make the entire baking process enjoyable!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/3 cup fresh raspberries, finely chopped
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Molds
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, take your madeleine pan and grease it well. You can use either softened butter or a non-stick cooking spray. This step is crucial because the madeleines are delicate, and you want them to release easily from the molds once baked.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will be your dry ingredient mixture, and whisking ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture, leading to perfectly risen madeleines.
Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Sugar
In a separate large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to combine the eggs and granulated sugar. Beat them together for approximately 3-4 minutes until the mixture turns pale and fluffy. This step incorporates air, creating the light and airy texture characteristic of madeleines.
Step 4: Add Flavorings
Once your egg and sugar mixture is fluffy, add in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Mix gently to combine all the flavors. This is where the magic begins, as the aromatic zest and tangy juice elevate the overall taste of the madeleines.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring the dry and wet ingredients together. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix here; you want to combine them until just incorporated. Then, slowly drizzle in the melted butter while folding—this adds richness and moisture to each madeleine.
Step 6: Add the Raspberries
In this step, fold in the finely chopped fresh raspberries. Make sure to distribute them throughout the batter without overmixing, as we don’t want to mush the raspberries into the dough; we just want them mixed in for a delightful fruity burst in every bite.
Step 7: Fill the Madeleines Molds
Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine molds, filling each mold about ¾ full. It’s important not to overfill them as the batter will rise while baking. Keeping the right amount will ensure they maintain their beautiful shell shape.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place your filled madeleine pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The madeleines should be golden brown around the edges, and when lightly pressed, the centers should spring back. They should hold their shape perfectly, showcasing the lovely shell form.
Step 9: Cool and Dust with Sugar
Once baked, allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for about 2 minutes. This helps them to set slightly, making them easier to remove. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Finally, before serving, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Variations
- Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder for an added boost.
- Vegetables: Try adding finely shredded carrot or zucchini for added moisture and nutrients.
- Spices: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or swap lemon for lime zest for a different citrus kick.
Cooking Notes
- The batter can also be prepared a few hours ahead of time. If you want to make it in advance, cover and chill in the refrigerator, and let it return to room temperature before baking.
- If your madeleines get a bit stuck, gently run a butter knife around the edges of the molds to help release them.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your madeleines with a cup of Earl Grey tea for an elegant afternoon treat.
- Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh berries to elevate your dessert.
Tips
- For a stronger lemon flavor, consider adding an extra ½ teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
- If you have leftover madeleines, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for a day or two.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 75 per madeleine
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 30mg
FAQs
What is the best way to store madeleines?
To keep your madeleines fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay good for up to two days.
Can I freeze madeleines?
Yes! You can freeze madeleines for up to a month. Just make sure to place them in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.
Can I customize the flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits, extracts, or even chocolate chips for a delightful twist on the original recipe.
Why are my madeleines not puffing up?
This can happen if the batter was overmixed, or if you didn’t allow the batter to rest. Gentle folding is key to keeping the light texture!
Conclusion
Lemon Raspberry Madeleines are not just a treat; they’re an experience. With their delightful combination of lemon and raspberry, these French pastries will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The light, fluffy texture and the elegant shell shape are sure to impress both friends and family. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the balance between sweet and tart.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply enjoying some quality time in the kitchen, this recipe will bring a little piece of France into your home. Encourage yourself to try out different flavors and share your variations in the comments below. Let these homemade madeleines be the star of your next gathering or tea party—happy baking!
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Lemon Raspberry Madeleines
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 madeleines 1x
Description
Light and fluffy lemon raspberry madeleines that are perfect for tea time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/3 cup fresh raspberries, finely chopped
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease the madeleine molds.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Beat the eggs and sugar in another bowl until pale and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla, lemon zest, and juice, and mix gently.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then add melted butter while folding.
- Gently fold in the raspberries.
- Spoon into molds, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch.
- Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
The batter can also be prepared several hours ahead of time and chilled until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 75 calories per madeleine
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Protein: 1 g