Madeleines
I still remember the first time I made madeleines for my family. It was a special occasion, and I wanted to create something that would impress everyone. As I took the madeleines out of the oven, the aroma filled the entire house, and the first bite was like a symphony of flavors and textures. The combination of the tender cake, the delicate shell shape, and the subtle sweetness was absolute perfection.
As a registered dietitian turned recipe developer, I've always been passionate about creating balanced and blood-sugar-friendly recipes that are not only delicious but also good for you. Madeleines, with their delicate texture and subtle sweetness, are the perfect candidate for a healthier dessert option. In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making madeleines from scratch, using wholesome ingredients and a touch of natural sweetness.
Madeleines are a classic French dessert that originated in the Lorraine region. They are small, shell-shaped cakes with a light, spongy texture and a delicate flavor. Traditionally, madeleines are made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, but in this recipe, we'll be using a combination of whole wheat flour, almond flour, and natural sweeteners to create a blood-sugar-friendly version.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a light and delicious dessert that won't spike their blood sugar levels. The madeleines are also a great option for a snack or a breakfast treat, and they can be easily packed in a lunchbox or taken on-the-go.
In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of whole wheat flour, almond flour, and natural sweeteners to create a blood-sugar-friendly version of madeleines. We'll also be adding some extra flavor with vanilla extract and a touch of lemon zest. The result is a delicious and tender madeleine that's perfect for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Madeleines are a delicious and elegant dessert that's perfect for special occasions
- They're made with wholesome ingredients and natural sweeteners, making them a great option for a blood-sugar-friendly dessert
- The madeleines are light and tender, with a delicate texture that's sure to impress
- They're easy to make and require minimal ingredients
- The madeleines are perfect for a snack or breakfast treat, and can be easily packed in a lunchbox or taken on-the-go
- They're a great option for a crowd, as they can be made in large batches and served to a group of people
Why This Recipe Works
The key to making great madeleines is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough madeleine, so it's essential to mix the ingredients just until they come together in a smooth batter. We'll also be using a combination of whole wheat flour and almond flour to create a delicate and tender texture.
Another important aspect of making madeleines is to use the right type of pan. Traditionally, madeleines are made in a shell-shaped mold, which gives them their characteristic shape. If you don't have a madeleine pan, you can also use a mini muffin tin or a regular muffin tin. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
The baking time is also crucial when making madeleines. The madeleines should be baked until they're lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. This will ensure that they're cooked through and have a delicate texture. We'll also be checking the madeleines for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of one of the madeleines. If the toothpick comes out clean, the madeleines are done.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making madeleines, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. We'll be using a combination of whole wheat flour, almond flour, and natural sweeteners to create a blood-sugar-friendly version of madeleines. We'll also be adding some extra flavor with vanilla extract and a touch of lemon zest.
When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality whole wheat flour and almond flour. You can find these ingredients at most health food stores or online. We'll also be using large eggs, unsalted butter, and granulated sweetener, so be sure to have those ingredients on hand as well.
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) whole wheat flourWhole wheat flour provides fiber and nutrients, and helps to create a delicate texture in the madeleines. Be sure to choose a high-quality whole wheat flour that is finely milled and has a light texture.
- 1/2 cup (60g) almond flourAlmond flour adds protein and healthy fats to the madeleines, and helps to create a tender texture. Be sure to choose a high-quality almond flour that is finely milled and has a light texture.
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sweetenerGranulated sweetener is a natural sweetener that is low on the glycemic index, making it a great option for a blood-sugar-friendly dessert. Be sure to choose a high-quality granulated sweetener that is made from natural ingredients and has a light texture.
- 3 large eggsEggs provide protein and moisture to the madeleines, and help to create a delicate texture. Be sure to choose large eggs that are fresh and have a clean, smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, meltedUnsalted butter adds flavor and moisture to the madeleines, and helps to create a tender texture. Be sure to choose high-quality unsalted butter that is made from natural ingredients and has a light texture.
- 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extractVanilla extract adds flavor and aroma to the madeleines, and helps to create a delicate texture. Be sure to choose high-quality vanilla extract that is made from natural ingredients and has a light texture.
- 1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt enhances the flavor of the madeleines and helps to create a delicate texture. Be sure to choose high-quality salt that is made from natural ingredients and has a light texture.
- 1/4 tsp (1g) baking sodaBaking soda helps to create a light and tender texture in the madeleines, and is an essential ingredient in this recipe. Be sure to choose high-quality baking soda that is made from natural ingredients and has a light texture.
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh lemon zestFresh lemon zest adds flavor and aroma to the madeleines, and helps to create a delicate texture. Be sure to choose high-quality lemons that are fresh and have a clean, smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juiceLemon juice adds moisture and flavor to the madeleines, and helps to create a delicate texture. Be sure to choose high-quality lemons that are fresh and have a clean, smooth texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Madeleines
- 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Be sure to use an oven thermometer to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature.
- 2In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, granulated sweetener, and baking soda. Be sure to whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and there are no lumps.
- 3In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Be sure to whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
- 4Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Be sure to not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough madeleine.
- 5Stir in the chopped fresh lemon zest and lemon juice. Be sure to stir the ingredients together until they are well combined and the lemon zest is evenly distributed.
- 6Pour the batter into the madeleine pan or mini muffin tin, filling each shell about 3/4 of the way full. Be sure to not overfill the shells, as this can result in a madeleine that is too large and difficult to remove from the pan.
- 7Bake the madeleines for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. Be sure to check the madeleines for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of one of the madeleines. If the toothpick comes out clean, the madeleines are done.
- 8Remove the madeleines from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Be sure to not remove the madeleines from the pan too quickly, as this can result in them breaking or sticking to the pan.
- 9Transfer the madeleines to a wire rack to cool completely. Be sure to let the madeleines cool completely before serving, as this will help them to retain their texture and flavor.
- 10Serve the madeleines warm, or let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the madeleines in a cool, dry place to help them retain their texture and flavor.
Expert Tips
- Be sure to use high-quality ingredients, including whole wheat flour and almond flour, to create a delicate and tender texture in the madeleines.
- Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough madeleine.
- Use a madeleine pan or mini muffin tin to create the characteristic shell shape of the madeleines.
- Don't overbake the madeleines, as this can result in them becoming dry and crumbly.
- Let the madeleines cool completely before serving, as this will help them to retain their texture and flavor.
- Store the madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to help them retain their texture and flavor.
- Consider adding other flavorings, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to the madeleines for a unique and delicious twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter, which can result in a dense and tough madeleine.
- Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the texture and flavor of the madeleines.
- Overbaking the madeleines, which can result in them becoming dry and crumbly.
- Not letting the madeleines cool completely before serving, which can affect their texture and flavor.
- Not storing the madeleines in an airtight container, which can result in them becoming stale and dry.
- Not using the correct pan, which can affect the shape and texture of the madeleines.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a unique and delicious flavor.
- Use different types of flour, such as oat flour or coconut flour, to create a gluten-free or low-carb version of the madeleines.
- Add some chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or chia seeds, to the batter for added texture and nutrition.
- Use a different type of sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup, to create a unique and delicious flavor.
- Add some dried fruit, such as cranberries or cherries, to the batter for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use a different type of milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, to create a dairy-free version of the madeleines.
- Add some cocoa powder to the batter to create a chocolate version of the madeleines.
What to Serve With Madeleines
The madeleines are perfect for serving as a light dessert or snack. They can be served warm, or let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Consider serving the madeleines with a cup of coffee or tea, or with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream. They can also be served with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a light and delicious dessert.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
The madeleines can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to store them in a cool, dry place to help them retain their texture and flavor.
Consider freezing the madeleines for up to 2 months. Simply place the madeleines in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them in the freezer. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the madeleines at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Reheating the madeleines is easy. Simply place them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they're warm and fragrant. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until they're warm and fragrant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to store madeleines?
The best way to store madeleines is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to serve.
Can I make madeleines ahead of time?
Yes, you can make madeleines ahead of time. Simply bake them and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
What is the best way to reheat madeleines?
The best way to reheat madeleines is in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they're warm and fragrant. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until they're warm and fragrant.
Can I make madeleines gluten-free?
Yes, you can make madeleines gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and being careful to avoid cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I make madeleines dairy-free?
Yes, you can make madeleines dairy-free by using dairy-free milk and being careful to avoid cross-contamination with dairy-containing ingredients.
What is the best way to serve madeleines?
The best way to serve madeleines is warm, or let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Consider serving them with a cup of coffee or tea, or with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
Can I make madeleines in a different shape?
Yes, you can make madeleines in a different shape. Simply use a different type of pan, such as a mini muffin tin or a cake pan, to create the desired shape.
What is the best way to freeze madeleines?
The best way to freeze madeleines is to place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the madeleines at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) almond flour
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sweetener
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) baking soda
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh lemon zest
- 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Be sure to use an oven thermometer to ensure the oven is at the correct temperature.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, almond flour, granulated sweetener, and baking soda. Be sure to whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and there are no lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Be sure to whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
- Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Be sure to not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense and tough madeleine.
- Stir in the chopped fresh lemon zest and lemon juice. Be sure to stir the ingredients together until they are well combined and the lemon zest is evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the madeleine pan or mini muffin tin, filling each shell about 3/4 of the way full. Be sure to not overfill the shells, as this can result in a madeleine that is too large and difficult to remove from the pan.
- Bake the madeleines for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. Be sure to check the madeleines for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of one of the madeleines. If the toothpick comes out clean, the madeleines are done.
- Remove the madeleines from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Be sure to not remove the madeleines from the pan too quickly, as this can result in them breaking or sticking to the pan.
- Transfer the madeleines to a wire rack to cool completely. Be sure to let the madeleines cool completely before serving, as this will help them to retain their texture and flavor.
- Serve the madeleines warm, or let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the madeleines in a cool, dry place to help them retain their texture and flavor.