Iced madeleines

Name: Iced madeleines
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Yield: 24
Ingredients: Type 00 flour 1 ¼ cup; Butter ½ cup; Powdered sugar 1 cup; Eggs 3; Baking powder 2 tsp; Lemon peel to taste; Fine salt 1 pinch; Powdered sugar ½ cup; Lemon juice to taste; Lemon peel to taste; Butter to taste

it de fr es br

Vegetarian

Difficulty: Easy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Makes: 34 pieces
Cost: Low
Note + the resting time of the dough in the fridge (90 min.)

PRESENTATION

Recipe by
Diletta Secco

Glazed madeleines have this special charm—can't go wrong—that makes them a must on any dessert table. And, really, these classic French treats, with their shell shape and lovely texture, are irresistible. The magic of this madeleine recipe lies in its moist and tender inside, plus a golden crust. Made from eggs, butter, flour, and sugar, there's a refreshing twist with lemon zest, giving each bite a burst of tangy flavor.

In France, these little cakes bring back childhood memories—pretty much a nostalgic treat. Marcel Proust even wrote about them, which, honestly, speaks to their lasting appeal. Even with all those traditional French pastries around, French madeleines stand out. It is their unique look and melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Here's the thing: what really elevates these glazed madeleines is the simple yet delicious lemon glaze. And look, instead of water, lemon juice is used—making the citrus flavor really really pop. While some folks experiment with savory versions—like with olives or strawberry flavors—the sweet and zesty lemon glaze has something special. Sure, some might go for chocolate-glazed madeleines, but that lemon keeps things light and bright.

These shell-shaped delights are perfect for anything from afternoon tea to an elegant dessert spread. Trying an easy madeleine recipe at home lets you enjoy that soft, buttery crumb and French flavor anytime. Whether you stick with the lemon glaze or try something new, these glazed madeleines are sure to be a hit. I mean, everyone will be talking and reaching for more. There's just nothing quite like a homemade batch cooling on the rack, filling your kitchen with that fresh and citrusy aroma. They're the kind of treat that brings people together, sparking joy and conversation over each delicious bite—seriously good.

INGREDIENTS

For 34 madeleines: Type 00 flour 1 ¼ cup (150 g); Butter ½ cup (125 g); Powdered sugar 1 cup (120 g); Eggs 3; Baking powder 2 tsp (8 g); Lemon peel to taste; Fine salt 1 pinch

For the lemon glaze: Powdered sugar ½ cup (70 g); Lemon juice to taste

For garnish: Lemon peel to taste

For greasing the mold: Butter to taste

Preparation

How to prepare Iced madeleines

To make iced madeleines, first melt the butter in a saucepan and allow it to cool. Meanwhile, sift the powdered sugar 1 and baking powder 2 into a bowl, then add the grated lemon zest 3.

Mix with a hand whisk 4, then add the eggs, one at a time 5. Mix to combine them, being careful not to incorporate air. Sift the flour into the bowl in 2 parts 6 and incorporate it with the whisk.

Add a pinch of salt 7. Finally, pour in the melted butter 8 and quickly mix the batter. Cover with plastic wrap and let the batter rest in the refrigerator for about an hour and a half 9.

After the resting time, butter a madeleine mold and fill it with the batter using 2 spoons (alternatively you can use a piping bag) 10. Do not overfill the molds as they will rise during baking 11. Bake the madeleines in a preheated static oven at 350°F for 11-12 minutes. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the mold 12.

While the madeleines cool, you can prepare the glaze: pour the strained lemon juice 13 and powdered sugar into a small bowl 14, then mix until you obtain a medium-thick glaze 15. Adjust the lemon amount according to the desired consistency.

At this point, dip the smooth side of the madeleines in the glaze 16 and place them back in the mold. Garnish with grated lemon zest 17 and let them dry. Your iced madeleines are ready to be served 18!