There’s something truly magical about homemade madeleine cookies—the way their delicate, buttery shells emerge golden from the oven, crisp at the edges yet irresistibly soft in the center. If you’ve ever dreamed of baking French-style madeleines at home, this easy recipe using cream will help you achieve that perfect balance of moist, rich flavor and a beautifully airy texture.
Madeleines aren’t just cookies—they’re a delightful cross between a light sponge cake and a crisp butter cookie, making them perfect for pairing with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The addition of heavy cream elevates their tenderness, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.
Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat, an elegant brunch, or a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delivers bakery-style results. Ready to whip up a batch of these classic madeleines? Let’s get started!
If you’ve ever wanted to recreate bakery-style madeleines at home, this recipe is your secret weapon! By using heavy cream, we take these French butter cookies to the next level—ensuring a soft, moist texture with just the right amount of richness.
Table of Contents
Here’s why you’ll love these homemade madeleines
✔️ Delicate & Buttery – The perfect balance between a light sponge cake and a crisp cookie.
✔️ Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
✔️ Soft & Moist Texture – Thanks to heavy cream, these madeleines stay tender longer.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy them with tea, coffee, or as an elegant dessert.
Unlike traditional madeleine recipes that rely solely on butter, this version incorporates cream for a richer, melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you’ve struggled with madeleines turning out dry or dense, this method guarantees light, fluffy results every time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple pantry staples to create soft, buttery madeleine cookies with a delicate crumb. Each ingredient plays a key role, so be sure to use high-quality options for the best results!
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cookies light.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps create the signature airy, fluffy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs, room temperature – Whisking them properly creates a light, sponge-like texture.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter while adding slight crispness to the edges.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses warmth and depth into every bite.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional) – Adds a fresh, citrusy note to complement the richness.
- ⅓ cup (80ml) heavy cream – The secret to extra moist, melt-in-your-mouth madeleines.
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
For Finishing:
- Powdered sugar – A light dusting on top makes these madeleines look bakery-perfect.
Pro Tip:
For the best results, use room temperature eggs—they whip up with more volume, helping your madeleines achieve that classic soft and fluffy texture. If your eggs are cold, let them sit in warm water for a few minutes before using.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to turn them into the perfect madeleine cookies. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be baking light, fluffy madeleines with a buttery texture that will impress anyone!
1. Make the Batter
- Whisk the eggs and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk or electric mixer to beat the eggs and granulated sugar for about 3-4 minutes. You want the mixture to become pale, thick, and slightly foamy. This helps incorporate air into the batter, which is key to achieving that airy texture.
- Add flavorings – Stir in the vanilla extract and, if you like a burst of freshness, the lemon zest. These ingredients will enhance the cookies’ flavor profile and give them a subtle yet delightful aroma.
- Sift and combine dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps, and it helps the batter rise evenly.
- Mix the dry and wet ingredients – Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just fold until the ingredients are combined. The batter should be slightly thick but smooth.
- Add butter and cream – Gently fold in the melted butter and heavy cream. These ingredients will give the madeleines their moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture, so be sure they’re fully incorporated but not overworked.
2. Let the Batter Rest
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This resting period helps the batter firm up, and the flavors will develop further, giving you that perfect, tender crumb once baked.
3. Prepare the Madeleine Pan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease your madeleine pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- For an extra touch, you can lightly dust the pan with flour, tapping out any excess. This helps the madeleines develop a lovely, crispy edge.
4. Bake the Madeleines
- Fill the molds – Spoon about 1 tablespoon of batter into each mold, filling them about ¾ full. The batter will spread as it bakes, so leave a little room at the top.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes – The madeleines should be golden brown around the edges, and when you lightly press the centers, they should spring back. This means they’re perfectly baked!
- Cool and finish – Let the madeleines cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant finish.
Pro Tips and Variations
While the classic madeleine cookies recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize them to suit your taste. Here are some helpful tips and fun variations to take your madeleines to the next level!
1. Let the Batter Rest
One of the best tricks to get that perfect madeleine texture is to let your batter rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flour time to absorb the liquid, helping the cookies rise properly and ensuring that light, fluffy crumb. For an even better result, you can chill the batter for up to 2 hours.
2. Add a Touch of Citrus
For a fresh, zesty twist, try adding a little orange zest or lemon zest to the batter. These citrus flavors pair wonderfully with the buttery richness of the madeleines, adding a delightful burst of freshness with every bite. A bit of citrus makes these cookies ideal for a spring afternoon tea or a bright brunch.
3. Get Creative with Flavorings
While vanilla is the classic flavor, you can experiment with other extracts to give your madeleines a unique flair:
- Almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor.
- Lavender for an aromatic twist (just a pinch!).
- Rosewater for a delicate floral note.
Feel free to swap out the for one of these to create a flavor profile that suits your mood or event.
4. Try a Chocolate-Dipped Madeleine
For a bit of indulgence, dip the ends of your madeleine cookies in melted chocolate after they’ve cooled. Dark chocolate or white chocolate both work beautifully, and the rich contrast makes these treats even more irresistible. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or sea salt on top of the chocolate for an extra touch of texture and flavor.
5. Make Them Extra Crispy
If you love a little crunch, try this pro tip: once your madeleine Cookies are baked, let them cool for a few minutes in the pan, then brush them with a little melted butter and sprinkle sugar on top before baking. This creates a delightful crispy, caramelized exterior that’s hard to resist!
6. Add Some Fruit
For a fun and fresh variation, fold in some finely chopped berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, into the batter. This will give your madeleine Cookies a pop of color and a slightly tangy contrast to the buttery richness. Just be gentle when folding them in to avoid breaking the berries too much.
Pro Tip:
Make sure not to overfill the madeleine molds! Filling them ¾ full is the sweet spot for achieving that perfect signature hump and even rise.
These small adjustments can turn a simple recipe into something truly special, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make these madeleine cookies your own!
Serving Suggestions
Madeleines are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for many occasions. Whether you’re serving them as a sweet treat at an afternoon gathering or pairing them with a cozy beverage, these buttery, soft cookies will be the star of the show. Here are some simple yet elegant serving ideas to elevate your madeleine cookies!
1. Pair with Tea or Coffee
Madeleine cookies and a hot beverage are a match made in heaven. Whether you’re enjoying a warm cup of Earl Grey, green tea, or coffee, the delicate, buttery texture of the madeleines perfectly complements the warmth of the drink. For an extra touch of elegance, serve them on a delicate tray with your favorite tea set.
2. Perfect for Brunches and Gatherings
Serve your madeleines as part of a brunch spread or afternoon tea alongside other sweet and savory options. They pair wonderfully with fruit preserves, whipped cream, or even a small dish of clotted cream. Their bite-sized shape makes them easy to pass around, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
3. Turn Them into a Dessert Platter
For a simple dessert platter, serve your madeleine cookies alongside fresh fruit like berries, sliced citrus, or melon. You can also add a small bowl of dark chocolate ganache or honey for dipping. This makes for a light yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for guests.
4. Use for Special Occasions
Madeleine cookies make an elegant gift for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a thoughtful, homemade treat. Arrange them on a decorative plate or box them up in a cute gift box. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a festive touch, especially for celebrations like Christmas or Easter.
5. Make Mini Madeleine Cookies Bites
If you’re looking for bite-sized versions of your favorite treat, consider using a mini madeleine cookies pan. These smaller treats are perfect for party snacks or for serving at weddings and other special events. They’re also great for kids—small hands love these delicate cookies!
Pro Tip:
For an extra pop of flavor, try pairing your madeleines with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruit sorbet. The coolness of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, soft madeleines. Perfect for summer gatherings!
These simple serving suggestions allow you to get creative with how you present your madeleine cookies. No matter how you serve them, your guests will love the rich, buttery flavor and soft texture of these French-inspired treats!
Conclusion
Making madeleine cookies is a rewarding experience that results in delightful treats perfect for any occasion. With their rich, buttery flavor and soft, spongy texture, they bring a touch of French elegance to your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot drink, serving them at a gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet moment by yourself, these cookies will never disappoint.
By following this easy-to-follow recipe and incorporating a few of the pro tips and variations, you can make your own perfect madeleines every time. From choosing the right ingredients to mastering the batter consistency, each step helps create that melt-in-your-mouth experience that madeleines are famous for.
Don’t forget to experiment with different flavors like citrus or chocolate dips to personalize your madeleine experience. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s simple yet versatile—perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Happy Baking! Enjoy your madeleines fresh from the oven, and don’t forget to share them with friends or family (if you can resist eating them all yourself)!
Pro Tip:
The key to perfect madeleines lies in the resting time and the proper baking technique. With a little patience and a few simple adjustments, you’ll master these buttery French treats in no time!
Enjoy making these delicious, delicate madeleines, and let them be the star of your next tea party or celebration!
How to Make Perfect Madeleine Cookies with Cream – Easy & Delicious
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup 120g all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cookies light.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps create the signature airy fluffy texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs room temperature – Whisking them properly creates a light, sponge-like texture.
- ½ cup 100g granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter while adding slight crispness to the edges.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses warmth and depth into every bite.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional – Adds a fresh, citrusy note to complement the richness.
- ⅓ cup 80ml heavy cream – The secret to extra moist, melt-in-your-mouth madeleines.
- ¼ cup 60g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
Instructions
Make the Batter
- Whisk the eggs and sugar – In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk or electric mixer to beat the eggs and granulated sugar for about 3-4 minutes. You want the mixture to become pale, thick, and slightly foamy. This helps incorporate air into the batter, which is key to achieving that airy texture.
- Add flavorings – Stir in the vanilla extract and, if you like a burst of freshness, the lemon zest. These ingredients will enhance the cookies’ flavor profile and give them a subtle yet delightful aroma.
- Sift and combine dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps, and it helps the batter rise evenly.
- Mix the dry and wet ingredients – Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just fold until the ingredients are combined. The batter should be slightly thick but smooth.
- Add butter and cream – Gently fold in the melted butter and heavy cream. These ingredients will give the madeleines their moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture, so be sure they’re fully incorporated but not overworked.
Let the Batter Rest
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This resting period helps the batter firm up, and the flavors will develop further, giving you that perfect, tender crumb once baked.
Prepare the Madeleine Pan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease your madeleine pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- For an extra touch, you can lightly dust the pan with flour, tapping out any excess. This helps the madeleines develop a lovely, crispy edge.
Bake the Madeleines
- Fill the molds – Spoon about 1 tablespoon of batter into each mold, filling them about ¾ full. The batter will spread as it bakes, so leave a little room at the top.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes – The madeleines should be golden brown around the edges, and when you lightly press the centers, they should spring back. This means they’re perfectly baked!
- Cool and finish – Let the madeleines cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant finish.
Notes
Recipe Details:
Prep Time: 20 minutes / Cook Time: 10-12 minutes / Total Time: 35 minutes (including chilling time) / Servings: 12 madeleines / Calories: ~120 per madeleineNutrition Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 12 Total / Fat: 6g / Saturated Fat: 3g / Cholesterol: 35mg / Sodium: 40mg Carbohydrates: 14g / Sugar: 8g / Protein: 2gFAQs
1. Can I make madeleine cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Madeleine cookies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want to store them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping them up or freezing. When you’re ready to serve them, thaw at room temperature or heat them gently in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked texture.
2. What makes madeleines different from other cookies?
Madeleines are unique because of their signature shell-like shape and light, airy texture. They are made with a batter rather than dough, which gives them a soft, cake-like quality. The classic madeleine is flavored with vanilla or citrus zest and baked in a special pan, giving them their distinct form and delicate crumb.
3. Can I use a different pan if I don’t have a madeleine pan?
While a madeleine cookies pan is ideal for achieving that classic shell shape, if you don’t have one, you can use a mini muffin pan as a substitute. The texture and flavor will be the same, but the cookies will lack the traditional shell shape. If you want to recreate that, you could try shaping them with your hands or simply embrace the round, bite-sized look.
4. My madeleines didn’t rise, what went wrong?
If your madeleines didn’t rise properly, it could be due to a few things:
Batter not chilled enough: The batter should rest for at least 30 minutes to help with the rise.
Overmixing the batter: Too much mixing can lead to dense madeleines, so make sure to fold gently.
Incorrect oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly to 375°F (190°C). An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate temperature.
5. Can I add chocolate or fruit to the batter?
Yes! You can easily add chocolate chips, berries, or even chopped nuts to the batter for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to fold them in gently to avoid overmixing. Keep in mind that adding too much moisture (like wet fruit) can affect the texture, so use dry, finely chopped fruit or chocolate to keep the batter balanced.
6. How can I make my madeleines more crispy?
If you love a crispier edge, try brushing your madeleines with a bit of melted butter and sprinkling sugar on top before baking. This will create a deliciously crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and airy. You can also bake them a bit longer (but watch carefully to avoid overbaking).
7. How do I store madeleine cookies?
To store your madeleine cookies, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a sealed bag or container once frozen.