These classic French Madeleines are made from a genoise cake batter (or génoise in French) which is a traditional French sponge cake where air is left within the batter to provide volume. They might be called cookies but they taste fluffy like a cake. So, it’s like having the best of both worlds in one dessert! Plus, the perfect way to end any day, is making a warm cup of Lemongrass Tea alongside a plate of these cookies.

Why We Love This Recipe

It’s a cake and cookie all in one! French desserts, like this recipe and my French Apple Cake are, in my opinion, some of the best! You likely already have every ingredient in your pantry right now. What are you waiting for? Start to finish, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes!

Recipe Ingredients

Butter & Flour: These are everyday ingredients but for this recipe you will see how these two come together to make a coating for your Madeleine pan. For all ingredients and amounts please see the recipe card below.

How to Make Madeleine Cookies

Step #1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Step #2: In a small bowl melt your 10 Tablespoons of butter for the cookies and set it aside to cool. Step #3: In a small bowl create your pan coating by combining 1 Tablespoon of melted butter and the flour and whisking it together. Step #10: Remove to a cooling rack, decorate to your liking and enjoy!

Decorating Your Madeleines

Classic Madeleines are just that, classic. With that being said, when I make a batch or two for gatherings, similar to my Shortbread Biscotti, I like to heighten the presentation by adding additional flavors and decorations. Here are my 3 go to options. Dusting of powdered sugar: I LOVE the look of this. I think it is so simple and elegant and it only takes a small amount of confectioner’s sugar to really elevate the look of these cookies. White Chocolate and Lemon Zest: The sweetness of white chocolate and the tart that comes from fresh lemon zest is the perfect combination to add to this French madeleine recipe. Dark Chocolate and Pistachios: I love all things chocolate! Whether it’s Chocolate Crinkle Cookies or a Baileys Chocolate Martini and this dark chocolate dip and pistachio topping adds a rich flavor and a little crunch to these soft and fluffy cookies.

Expert Tips

Do Not Over Mix! Having air in the batter is what makes the spongey consistency while baking this madeleine recipe. If you over mix then you will lose volume, the texture will be chewy, and there will be less moisture in the batter.

Storage Information

You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Storing these cookies in the fridge can unfortunately increase the staling process so I wouldn’t recommend this.

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