Madeline Cookies Recipe Using [Your Brand/Website Name Here]
Madeline cookies, those delicate, shell-shaped treats, are a delightful addition to any tea party or sweet snack collection. Their subtly sweet flavor and unique shape make them instantly recognizable and beloved. This recipe will guide you through creating perfectly crisp-edged, tender-centered madeline cookies, using simple ingredients and techniques. Let's get baking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes approximately 24 madeline cookies.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The key to tender madeline cookies is using softened, not melted, butter. Room temperature is ideal.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adjust to your sweetness preference. You could experiment with a touch of brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Use large, fresh eggs for best results.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile. Consider experimenting with almond or lemon extract for a unique twist.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Using a good quality flour ensures the best texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This leavening agent gives the madeline cookies their light and airy texture.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour your madeline pan generously. This is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure easy release of the cookies. If you don't have a madeline pan, you can use a mini muffin tin, but the shape won't be the same.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the airy texture of the finished cookies. An electric mixer makes this process much easier.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Don't overmix.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Gently Fold Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
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Fill the Madeline Pan: Fill each madeline cup about two-thirds full. Don't overfill; the batter will rise during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on them.
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Cool and Enjoy: Carefully remove the madelines from the pan and let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Madeline Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened; this ensures a smooth batter.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough cookies.
- Properly Greased Pan: This is essential for easy release and beautiful madeline shapes.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the cookies cool completely before serving; this allows them to set properly.
- Storage: Store your madeline cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations to Try:
- Chocolate Madeleines: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Lemon Madeleines: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter.
- Nutty Madeleines: Incorporate chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the batter.
Enjoy experimenting with this classic recipe and creating your own delicious variations! We hope you love these delightful madeline cookies as much as we do. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out! Happy baking!
