30-Minute Cardamom Orange Madeleines Recipe

Introduction

These 30-minute Cardamom Orange Madeleines are tender, fragrant little cakes perfect for a quick treat. The bright citrus aroma pairs beautifully with the warm, spicy cardamom for a delightful flavor combination.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a madeleine pan thoroughly.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom until well combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the melted butter and orange zest into the egg and sugar mixture.
5. Step 5: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
6. Step 6: Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full.
7. Step 7: Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
8. Step 8: Let the madeleines cool in the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For extra orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract to the batter.
• Try replacing cardamom with cinnamon or nutmeg for a different spice profile.
• Use browned butter instead of melted butter for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

Storage

Store the madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm in a low oven for a few minutes to restore their delicate texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different citrus zest?

Yes, lemon or grapefruit zest work well and can add a fresh twist to the flavor.

Do I need a madeleine pan to make these?

A madeleine pan is ideal for the classic shell shape, but you can use mini muffin tins as a substitute, though the texture and appearance will differ slightly.

30-Minute Cardamom Orange Madeleines Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 78 reviews

These 30-Minute Cardamom Orange Madeleines are delightful, buttery French shell-shaped cakes infused with fragrant cardamom and bright orange zest. Perfect for a quick yet elegant treat, they combine a tender crumb with a light citrus and warm spice flavor, making them ideal for tea time or a sweet snack.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 madeleines 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp orange zest

Other

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your madeleine pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom until evenly combined.
3. Beat Eggs and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale, thick, and fluffy, indicating proper aeration.
4. Add Butter and Zest: Fold the melted unsalted butter and fresh orange zest gently into the beaten eggs and sugar mixture to maintain airiness and incorporate flavor.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined without overmixing, preserving the batter’s light texture.
6. Fill the Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan molds, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
7. Bake: Bake the madeleines in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown and the centers spring back when lightly touched.
8. Cool: Let the madeleines cool in the pan for 2 minutes to set, then transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

• Make sure the butter is cooled to avoid cooking the eggs when mixing.
• If you don’t have a madeleine pan, you can use mini muffin tins, though the classic shell shape will be missing.
• Serve madeleines fresh on the same day for best texture and flavor as they can dry out quickly.
• For extra flair, dust with powdered sugar before serving or dip one end in melted chocolate.
• Room temperature eggs will beat better and create a fluffier batter.

Keywords: madeleines, cardamom, orange zest, French pastries, quick dessert, tea time cakes, buttery cake, shell-shaped cookies