French Madeleine

A Bit of History on Madeleines

Madeleines are small French cakes shaped like seashells with a hump on top. Their texture and flavor come from a simple mix of butter, honey and lemon zest. Although the recipe is simple, it can take a few attempts to get the texture just right. They are a cornerstone of French patisserie and are often eaten with a cup of tea or coffee.

The classic French Madeleine was born in Commercy a small town in eastern France. They have been a part of French culinary heritage for centuries and are the epitome of French baking.

A Nod to History: Marcel Proust and Madeleines


Madeleines have a special place in French culture thanks to writer Marcel Proust who wrote about them in his book In Search of Lost Time.

These shell-shaped cakes were said to evoke powerful memories, comfort and nostalgia. Named after Madeleine Paulmier, a 19th century pastry chef, the recipe has stood the test of time and brought joy to generations. Whether you’re making madeleines for the first time or they’re already a family favorite, these little treats are a classic French tradition.

How to Make Perfect French Madeleines

For the perfect Madeleine cake recipe, be sure to use good quality ingredients. French butter, organic honey and fresh lemons will make a big difference. Let the batter rest before baking so the hump forms in the oven.

Tips for the Perfect Madeleine Batter

Getting the perfect madeleine batter boils down to a few simple tricks. Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a big bowl until pale and fluffy—this step incorporates air into the batter and gives it that classic spongy texture.
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of kosher salt, then fold the melted butter (or browned butter for added flavor) into the batter gently to avoid deflating it.

Why Madeleine Molds Matter

The signature shell shape of madeleines comes from the specialized madeleine mold. These molds not only give the cakes their shape but also distribute the heat evenly while baking so you get a golden brown outside and a tender fluffy inside. Brush the molds with unsalted butter and dust with flour before spooning in the batter to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a madeleine mold, a small muffin pan can work as a substitute, but they won’t have the same beautiful shell design. For the best results, place the molds on a baking sheet to make handling easier when transferring them in and out of the hot oven.

The Secret to Golden Brown Madeleines

To get that perfect golden brown color, bake the madeleines in a hot oven— 375°F —for 8 to 10 minutes. The high heat helps the batter rise quickly and creates the hump in the middle of the cake. Keep an eye on them during the last minute or two as the edges can brown too quickly. Once baked remove the madeleines from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan before turning them out onto a rack. This way they keep their shape and don’t dry out. Madeleines are best served warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar.

Variations on the Classic Madeleine Recipe

Madeleines are super versatile and can be flavored for any occasion. While classic French madeleines call for vanilla extract or lemon zest, you can add orange zest, a bit of brown butter or even vanilla bean paste for more oomph. If you’re feeling adventurous, try folding chocolate chips or a pinch of sea salt into the batter for a sweet-and-salty twist. A little drizzle of lemon juice or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds a beautiful finish to these delicate, shell-shaped little cakes. Each variation becomes a different treat while still maintaining the lightness.

Storing and Enjoying Madeleines

These little cakes are best served fresh but can be made ahead of time. Store leftover madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep the crumb tender. To keep them longer, put them in the freezer where they will keep for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat them again, just warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore the softness. Serving these little sponge like treats with tea or coffee is sure to please and impress your guests.