Looking for a delightful treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea or coffee? These Cherry Madeleines are a charming and elegant addition to any gathering or simply as a homemade indulgence to savor. Madeleines are small sponge cakes with a distinctive shell-like shape, perfect for a cozy afternoon at home or for entertaining guests. This recipe adds a burst of cherry flavor to the classic French pastry, making them a delightful surprise for your taste buds. Let’s get baking!
Title: Cherry Madeleines
Ingredients:
– 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/3 cup dried cherries, chopped
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease and flour a madeleine pan. Set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until pale and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Gradually add the melted butter to the egg mixture while continuing to beat on low speed. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be smooth and thick.
6. Finally, fold in the chopped dried cherries gently to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
7. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the madeleines are golden brown and the tops spring back when lightly touched.
9. Remove the madeleines from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once completely cooled, dust the Cherry Madeleines with powdered sugar for a final elegant touch before serving.
Enjoy these delightful Cherry Madeleines with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and delicious treat. The burst of cherry flavor combined with the light and airy texture of the madeleines makes them a delightful addition to any gathering or afternoon snack. These little pastries are sure to impress your guests or simply brighten up your day with a touch of homemade goodness. Happy baking and indulging!
