Orange Madeleines

Orange madeleines are an excellent variation of the classic French madeleines. The orange zest gives a fragrant citrus note that pairs perfectly with the sweet softness of the treat.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 100 g of granulated sugar
• 120 g of all-purpose flour
• 100 g of melted and cooled butter (plus a bit more for greasing the mold)
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• Grated zest of 1 orange (organic if possible)
• 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice
• Icing sugar (optional, for dusting)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 190 °C and lightly grease the madeleine molds with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar until the mixture is light and foamy.
3. Sift the flour with the baking powder and salt, and gently fold it into the egg and sugar mixture, stirring from the bottom up so as not to deflate the mixture.
4. Gently fold in the melted and cooled butter, orange zest and juice. Continue to stir gently until the mixture is smooth.
5. Fill the madeleine molds about 3/4 full.
6. Bake the madeleines for about 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed.
7. Remove the madeleines from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
8. If you wish, you can dust the madeleines with icing sugar before serving.

Trivia

Madeleines are often associated with a famous literary episode, the “involuntary memory” in Marcel Proust’s novel “In Search of Lost Time,” where the scent of these little delicacies triggers the memory of childhood in the protagonist. Orange madeleines add a touch of freshness to the traditional madeleine, making them ideal for an afternoon tea or as a sweet end to a meal.