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Madeleine Cookies

These classic Madeleine Cookies are light, buttery French cookies with a soft, cake-like texture and signature shell shape. Inspired by a traditional madeleine recipe French bakers love, this elegant treat is perfect for tea time, holidays, and special occasions. Ideal for fans of fancy cookie recipes, unique cookies, and bakery-style desserts.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • Zest of 1 lemon optional

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
  2. Mix in vanilla extract and lemon zest, if using.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gently fold dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just combined.
  5. Slowly fold in melted butter until batter is smooth.
  6. Cover and refrigerate batter for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a madeleine pan.
  8. Spoon batter into molds, filling each about ¾ full.
  9. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until centers spring back and edges are lightly golden.
  10. Remove from pan immediately and cool on a wire rack.

Notes

Chilling the batter helps create the signature hump typical of a perfect madeleine cookies recipe.
Dust with powdered sugar or dip in chocolate for fancy cookies.
Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
For festive baking, decorate as Christmas madeleines with white chocolate or sprinkles.
These cookies have a soft texture similar to a light madeleine cake.