Madeleine

Madeleine - Fluffy biscuits with citrus flavor

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Here is a recipe that will bring a smile to your face and a hint of nostalgia in every bite. Madeleines are those charming little cakes, with a fluffy texture and a delicate lemon flavor, that carry with them a history full of charm. These delicious pastries have captured the hearts of food lovers throughout time and are perfect for an afternoon tea or to be enjoyed alongside a fragrant coffee. Let's discover together how to prepare them!

Ingredients:
- 4 eggs (at room temperature)
- 180 g sugar
- 275 g flour + extra for greasing
- 11 g baking soda
- 50 g honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 pack of butter (200 g) + butter for greasing the molds

Preparation:

1. Preparing the eggs: Start by cracking the 4 eggs into a large bowl. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as this detail will contribute to a fluffier texture of the cakes. Add the sugar and mix well with a mixer for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color.

2. Incorporating the flour: Sift the 275 g of flour together with the baking soda, then add this combination to the egg and sugar mixture. It is important to mix gently to achieve a smooth dough without lumps. Then, add the honey, which will bring a sweet flavor and pleasant moisture to the cakes.

3. Resting the dough: Now, let the dough rest at room temperature for about an hour. This step is essential to allow the ingredients to blend harmoniously and develop the flavor of the cakes. If time is tight, a 30-40 minute rest is acceptable, although it won't be as optimal.

4. Adding the butter: After the resting time, melt the butter (without boiling it!) and let it cool slightly, then add it to the dough along with the lemon zest. Mix again, but gently, so you don't lose the air in the dough.

5. Another rest: Let the dough rest again, this time for another hour. This step will allow the dough to become even airier, resulting in light and fluffy cakes.

6. Preparing the molds: Before baking, prepare the madeleine molds. Grease them with butter and sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for obtaining cakes that easily come out of the molds and look perfect.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (or medium to high if using a gas oven). Using a spoon, fill the molds with dough, leaving a little space for the cakes to rise. Bake for 7-8 minutes until they turn golden. It is important to keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

8. Cooling: Once the cakes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack. This step will help maintain the fluffy texture and prevent condensation.

9. Serving: These madeleines can be served plain, but for an extra touch of elegance, you can dust them with sugar. They are wonderful alongside a cup of tea or a fragrant coffee and demonstrate elegance at any time of the day.

Useful tips:
- Ingredients: Use quality ingredients, especially honey and butter, to achieve an authentic and rich taste.
- Variations: You can experiment with flavors by adding, for example, cinnamon, vanilla, or even chopped chocolate.
- Storage: If you want to keep the madeleines longer, you can freeze them in an airtight container. When you want to consume them, let them thaw at room temperature.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
- Fats: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Proteins: 3 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour?: Yes, but you may get a different texture and a more pronounced flavor. Experiment to find the combination you like best.
- Can I replace honey?: Honey can be replaced with maple syrup or sugar, but the taste will be different, so adjust the quantities to your preferences.

I hope you find this madeleine recipe not only simple but also charming. Their delicate taste, along with the lemon aroma, will transport you to a fairytale world, enveloping you in a cheerful atmosphere. Enjoy every bite and don't forget to share these delights with your loved ones!