12 Delicious French Butter Cakes Madeleines Recipes

Welcome to a buttery journey through France’s beloved madeleines! These delicate, shell-shaped cakes are not just treats; they’re a bite of French elegance perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, our roundup of 12 delicious recipes will inspire you to whisk, bake, and savor. Ready to transform your kitchen into a Parisian patisserie? Let’s dive into the world of madeleines!

Classic French Madeleines with Lemon Zest

These delicate, shell-shaped cakes are a quintessential French treat, offering a light, buttery texture with a refreshing hint of lemon zest that elevates them to sublime perfection.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously butter a madeleine pan, ensuring every shell mold is coated to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, setting the stage for a smooth batter.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar on high speed until the mixture is pale and thick, about 3-4 minutes, which incorporates air for a lighter texture.
4. Gently fold in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest into the egg mixture, taking care not to deflate the air you’ve just incorporated.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough madeleines.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full to allow for the characteristic hump to form as they bake.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched, indicating they’re perfectly done.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Classic French madeleines with lemon zest boast a tender crumb and a subtly crisp exterior, with the citrus note providing a bright contrast to the rich butteriness. Serve them alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea for a truly Parisian experience, or as a sophisticated finish to a brunch spread.

Chocolate Dipped Madeleines

Heralding the perfect blend of French elegance and indulgent chocolate, these Chocolate Dipped Madeleines are a delightful treat that marries the light, buttery texture of classic madeleines with the rich depth of dark chocolate. Ideal for afternoon tea or as a sophisticated dessert, they promise to elevate any occasion with their charming shell shape and decadent finish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and generously butter a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar on high speed for 3 minutes until pale and thickened.
4. Gently fold in the melted butter and vanilla extract into the egg mixture.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two additions, folding gently after each until just combined.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
8. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
10. Dip each madeleine halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off, then place on a parchment-lined tray.
11. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.

Light as air with a crisp exterior and tender crumb, these Chocolate Dipped Madeleines offer a luxurious contrast between the delicate cake and the silky chocolate coating. Serve them alongside a cup of espresso for an elegant afternoon treat or as a refined ending to a dinner party.

Earl Grey Tea Infused Madeleines

Zesty yet refined, these Earl Grey Tea Infused Madeleines offer a delightful twist on the classic French treat, blending the aromatic depth of bergamot with the buttery, shell-shaped cake’s tender crumb.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp Earl Grey tea leaves, finely ground
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously butter a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground Earl Grey tea leaves until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is pale and thick, about 3 minutes.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, followed by the melted butter and vanilla extract, until just combined. Tip: Avoid overmixing to ensure the madeleines remain light and airy.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Tip: For uniform madeleines, use a piping bag or a small cookie scoop.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched. Tip: The signature hump of madeleines forms best when the batter is cold, so consider chilling it for 30 minutes before baking if time allows.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

With their delicate earl grey aroma and buttery texture, these madeleines are perfect alongside a cup of tea or as an elegant dessert garnished with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Almond Flour Madeleines for a Gluten-Free Option

Savory yet subtly sweet, these almond flour madeleines offer a gluten-free twist on the classic French tea cake, boasting a delicate crumb and golden edges that beckon with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a madeleine pan to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the eggs one at a time to the dry ingredients, whisking vigorously after each addition to incorporate air, which ensures a light texture.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, melted butter, and honey until the batter is smooth and homogenous.
5. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the almond flour to absorb the liquids, resulting in a more cohesive batter.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full to allow for rising.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
8. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Not only do these madeleines feature a tender, moist interior with a slightly crisp exterior, but their rich almond flavor pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra indulgent treat, serve them warm with a drizzle of dark chocolate.

Orange Blossom Madeleines with Honey Drizzle

Magical in their delicate simplicity, these Orange Blossom Madeleines with Honey Drizzle are a testament to the beauty of French patisserie, elevated with a whisper of floral orange blossom and the golden sweetness of honey.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp orange blossom water
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a madeleine pan with butter and dust with flour, tapping out the excess.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until pale and thickened, about 3 minutes.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the batter.
5. Stir in the melted butter and orange blossom water until just incorporated. Tip: For the best texture, let the batter rest for 10 minutes before baking to allow the flour to hydrate.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Tip: Use a piping bag for cleaner, more precise filling.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched. Tip: Avoid opening the oven door too early to prevent the madeleines from collapsing.
8. Transfer the madeleines to a wire rack to cool slightly. Warm the honey in a small saucepan over low heat until fluid, then drizzle over the madeleines while still warm.

Kissed with the aromatic essence of orange blossom and a glossy honey drizzle, these madeleines boast a tender, cake-like interior with signature scalloped edges. Serve them alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea for an afternoon treat that feels both indulgent and refined.

Matcha Green Tea Madeleines

Captivating the senses with their delicate texture and vibrant hue, Matcha Green Tea Madeleines are a sophisticated twist on the classic French tea cake. Infused with the earthy notes of premium matcha, these petite treats are as visually stunning as they are delicious, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and depth.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp matcha green tea powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp baking powder, and 2 tbsp matcha green tea powder until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs until frothy, then gradually mix in 1/2 cup melted and cooled unsalted butter and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to ensure tender madeleines.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers spring back when touched.
7. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Airy with a crisp shell and soft interior, these Matcha Green Tea Madeleines boast a nuanced flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a cup of sencha or as an elegant dessert garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Raspberry Jam Filled Madeleines

Savory yet sweet, these Raspberry Jam Filled Madeleines are a delightful twist on the classic French tea cake, offering a burst of fruity flavor in every bite. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a sophisticated dessert, their delicate shell shape and tender crumb are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup raspberry jam
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and generously butter a madeleine pan, ensuring each mold is fully coated to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overworking the batter.
4. Gently fold in the melted butter until the batter is smooth and shiny, a key step for achieving the perfect madeleine texture.
5. Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each madeleine mold, then add a teaspoon of raspberry jam in the center. Cover with another tablespoon of batter, ensuring the jam is fully enclosed.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
7. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of elegance and sweetness.

Kneading the batter lightly ensures these madeleines rise beautifully, creating their signature hump. The raspberry jam filling adds a moist, tangy contrast to the buttery cake, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve them warm with a dollop of clotted cream for an indulgent treat that elevates any tea time.

Vanilla Bean Madeleines with Lavender Glaze

Amidst the hustle of everyday life, there’s something profoundly comforting about the delicate aroma of vanilla and lavender wafting through the kitchen, promising a treat that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp dried lavender
• 2 tbsp milk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and generously butter a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Gradually fold in the melted butter and vanilla bean seeds into the egg mixture.
5. Gently incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when touched.
8. While the madeleines cool, prepare the glaze by combining powdered sugar, lavender, and milk in a small bowl, stirring until smooth.
9. Once the madeleines are completely cool, drizzle each with the lavender glaze.

Just out of the oven, these madeleines boast a tender crumb and a buttery vanilla flavor, elevated by the subtle floral notes of the lavender glaze. Serve them alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea for an afternoon treat that feels both indulgent and refined.

Coconut Madeleines with Lime Glaze

On a day when the air carries the promise of summer, there’s nothing quite like the delicate crunch and tropical aroma of Coconut Madeleines with Lime Glaze to transport your senses to a breezy island retreat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a madeleine pan with butter.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
3. In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs until light and frothy, then gradually mix in 1/2 cup melted and cooled unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, then gently stir in 1/2 cup shredded coconut. Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the madeleines light.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Tip: Use a piping bag for cleaner, more uniform shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when touched. Tip: Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even color.
7. While the madeleines cool, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 1 teaspoon lime zest until smooth to create the glaze.
8. Dip each madeleine into the lime glaze, allowing the excess to drip off, then set on a wire rack to harden.

Golden and crisp on the outside with a tender, coconut-infused interior, these madeleines are a delightful contrast of textures. The zesty lime glaze adds a bright, tangy finish that makes them irresistible. Serve alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea for an afternoon treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Pistachio Madeleines with Rose Water

Flourishing with the delicate essence of rose water and the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios, these madeleines are a sublime treat that marries French elegance with Middle Eastern flair. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a sophisticated dessert, they promise to transport your senses to a blooming garden with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely ground
• 1 tbsp rose water
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously butter a madeleine pan to ensure easy release after baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground pistachios until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
4. Gently fold the melted butter and rose water into the egg mixture, being careful not to deflate the air incorporated during beating.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense madeleines.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full to allow for rising.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
8. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Velvety in texture with a crisp edge, these pistachio madeleines with rose water offer a fragrant, nutty flavor that’s beautifully balanced. Serve them dusted with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an extra touch of elegance, or alongside a cup of floral tea to enhance their aromatic qualities.

Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Madeleines

Nothing quite compares to the delicate balance of rich dark chocolate and the subtle crunch of sea salt in these exquisite madeleines, a treat that promises to elevate your afternoon tea or coffee break to a moment of pure indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a madeleine pan to ensure easy release after baking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant depth of flavor.
4. Sift together the flour, dark cocoa powder, and baking powder into the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
5. Fold in the dark chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for pockets of melted chocolate in every bite.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full to allow for the characteristic hump to form.
7. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top of each madeleine before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor with a savory contrast.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers spring back lightly when touched.
9. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Remarkably tender with a crisp edge, these dark chocolate and sea salt madeleines offer a sophisticated twist on the classic French pastry. Serve them slightly warm to accentuate the melted chocolate chips, or pair with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra decadent touch.

Spiced Pumpkin Madeleines for Autumn

Brimming with the warmth of autumn, these Spiced Pumpkin Madeleines offer a delicate balance of sweet and spice, perfect for cozy afternoons or elegant gatherings. Their golden edges and soft, cake-like centers are a testament to the season’s bounty.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and generously butter a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
4. Gently fold in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract into the egg mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
6. Pour the melted butter into the batter and fold gently until the batter is smooth and shiny.
7. Using a tablespoon, fill each madeleine mold about 3/4 full with batter.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
9. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Velvety in texture with a hint of spice, these madeleines are best enjoyed warm, dusted with powdered sugar or alongside a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion

These 12 Delicious French Butter Cakes Madeleines Recipes offer a delightful journey into the heart of French baking, perfect for any home cook looking to add a touch of elegance to their dessert repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying madeleines for the first time, there’s a recipe here to inspire you. Don’t forget to bake, share your favorites in the comments, and pin your must-try picks on Pinterest!