Madeline of Proust

Proust's Madeleines: A Nostalgic Delicacy with Caramelized Apricots

Get comfortable, because today we will explore a recipe that combines tradition with a touch of nostalgia: Proust's Madeleines. This cake is a true homage to childhood, evoking sweet memories and unforgettable moments with loved ones. Whether you have a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a dessert, this recipe is the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 6 eggs
- 250 g sugar (200 g for the batter and 50 g for topping)
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g lard (a traditional ingredient that provides a unique texture)
- 300 g flour
- 100 ml milk (or more if needed)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (to add flavor)
- About 1 kg of apricots (pitted, fresh or even canned)

A Brief History

Madeleine, inspired by the famous literary work, is a dessert that brings together various culinary influences. It is a cake that gained popularity due to its fluffy texture and the delicious combination of flavors. Apricots, with their natural sweetness, blend perfectly with the soft batter, creating an irresistible contrast.

Step by step: How to prepare Proust's Madeleines

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the butter and lard are at room temperature, as this will facilitate homogenization.

2. Separating the eggs: Crack the eggs and separate the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential to have well-beaten egg whites, so ensure that the bowl is clean and dry.

3. Beating the egg whites: Using a mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Here’s a trick: for an even firmer foam, you can add a pinch of salt. Once done, set them aside to cool.

4. Creating the mixture: In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the butter and lard at medium speed until creamy. Gradually add 200 g of sugar and the vanilla sugar, continuing to mix for 3-4 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved.

5. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift 100 g of flour into the egg yolk mixture. At first, the batter will be quite thick, so gradually add 80-100 ml of milk to make it more fluid. Continue with the remaining flour and baking powder, mixing at low speed until well combined.

6. Incorporating the egg whites: Use a spatula to gently fold in the beaten egg whites, mixing from top to bottom so as not to lose the air in the mixture. The batter should be thicker than a sponge cake but easy to handle.

7. Preparing the pan: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Transfer the batter to the tray, using the back of a spoon to level it evenly.

8. Adding the apricots: Cut the apricots in half and place them on top of the batter, sprinkling the remaining 50 g of sugar on top. This step will help caramelize the apricots during baking, adding extra flavor.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to medium temperature. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes. You can check if it’s done using the toothpick test: if the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is baked.

10. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray. You can turn it out onto a wooden board for a nice shape. Slice and dust with powdered sugar if desired for an elegant look.

Serving Suggestions

Proust's Madeleines pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a cup of tea or coffee will complement this dessert perfectly, transforming it into a truly unique experience.

Recipe Variations

If you want to personalize your cake, you can replace the apricots with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, plums, or even apples. Add lemon or orange zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is a good source of protein from eggs and healthy fats from butter and lard. Apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, also having antioxidant properties. However, it’s best to consume moderate portions, considering the sugar and fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, but be careful with the amount, as it is sweeter.

What can I do if the batter is too dense?
Add a little extra milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.

How can I store Proust's Madeleines?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze portions to enjoy later.

Now, with all this information and tips, you are ready to try making Proust's Madeleines at home. Whether you make it for yourself or for loved ones, you will bring a touch of magic to every slice. Enjoy!