Why You’ll Love These Madeleine Cookies
Madeleine cookies are the ultimate French tea-time treat. With their iconic shell shape, buttery flavor, and delicate texture, they’re a dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. This recipe uses cream to add an extra layer of richness, making them even more irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these Madeleine cookies recipe using cream will impress everyone—including yourself!
What Are Madeleine Cookies?
Madeleines are small, shell-shaped sponge cakes that originated in France. They’re light, fluffy, and have a slightly crisp edge, making them the perfect companion to a cup of tea or coffee. Traditionally made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, this recipe elevates the classic by incorporating cream for a richer, more tender crumb.
Why Use Cream in Madeleine Cookies?
Adding cream to your Madeleine batter does two magical things:
- Enhances Moisture: Cream keeps the cookies soft and tender, even after they cool.
- Adds Richness: The fat in cream gives the cookies a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
If you’re a fan of creamy desserts like my Grandma’s Pound Cake or Whisky Cake, you’ll love this twist on a classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these dreamy Madeleine cookies:
- Butter: Unsalted butter for that rich, classic flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar for sweetness and structure.
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs to help the batter rise.
- Flour: All-purpose flour for the perfect texture.
- Baking Powder: A little leavening agent for a light, airy crumb.
- Cream: Heavy cream to add moisture and richness.
- Vanilla Extract: For a hint of warmth and flavor.
- Lemon Zest (optional): Adds a bright, citrusy note.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Madeleine pan (this is essential for the signature shell shape!)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a Madeleine pan, you can use a mini muffin tin, but the shape won’t be the same. Check out this high-quality Madeleine pan for perfect results every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Pan: Butter and flour your Madeleine pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and lemon zest.
- Incorporate Cream: Slowly add the cream, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Chill the Batter: Let the batter rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Bake: Spoon the batter into the pan and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Madeleine Cookies
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Batter: This step is crucial for achieving the signature hump on the cookies.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures even mixing and better texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Madeleine cookies are perfect on their own, but you can also:
- Serve them with a cup of Matcha Milk Tea or Irish Breakfast Tea.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Dip them in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 2g
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Madeleines: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Almond Madeleines: Substitute almond extract for vanilla and add sliced almonds on top.
- Citrus Madeleines: Swap lemon zest for orange or lime zest.
Creamy Madeleine Cookies: A French Classic Made Easy
Equipment
- Madeleine pan (this is essential for the signature shell shape!)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter and flour a Madeleine pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and lemon zest.
- Gradually add cream, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in dry ingredients until no lumps remain.
- Chill batter for 30 minutes.
- Spoon batter into the pan and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Have you tried making Madeleine cookies before? Share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and follow me on social media for more delicious dessert ideas.