Preparing Madeleines

Madeleines are a classic French cake that have a distinctive shell-like shape and a light, delicate texture. Here is a simple recipe to make madeleines at home:

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (140 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 9 tbsp (125 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
• Zest of one lemon
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and whisk again.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the lemon zest and mix well.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Slowly pour the melted butter into the batter, stirring constantly until the batter is smooth and well combined.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the batter for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a madeleine pan with butter and dust with flour.
7. Spoon the chilled batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the madeleines are golden brown and the centers are puffed and set.
9. Remove the madeleines from the oven and leave to cool on a wire rack tray.