Madeleines au Beurre Façon Muffins
Madeleines, traditionally small shell-shaped cakes, take on a new form as muffins in this recipe, combining the buttery richness and delicate texture of classic madeleines with the satisfying shape and size of muffins. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, these “Madeleine Muffins” are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a citrusy twist)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and let it cool to room temperature.
- Beat the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is important to get that signature light texture.
- Add the Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, honey (if using), and lemon zest (optional) into the egg and sugar mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, gently folding them in until just combined.
- Add the Butter: Slowly pour the melted butter into the batter, folding it in carefully to maintain the airiness of the mixture.
Step 2: Chill the Batter
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Chilling the batter helps give madeleines their characteristic texture and ensures a better rise during baking.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners. Alternatively, you can use a madeleine pan if you prefer the traditional shape.
Step 4: Bake the Madeleines
- Fill the Muffin Tins: Spoon the chilled batter into the muffin tin, filling each cavity about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the madeleine muffins are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the madeleines cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve
- Once cooled, dust the madeleines with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
- Serve with tea, coffee, or enjoy them on their own.
Tips:
- Chill the Batter: Chilling the batter is key to achieving that classic madeleine texture, even when baked in muffin form.
- Flavor Variations: For a twist, you can add almond extract, orange zest, or dip the tops of the madeleine muffins in melted chocolate after baking.
These Madeleines au Beurre Façon Muffins bring the elegance of French baking into a convenient muffin form. They are light, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet, perfect for any occasion!