When it comes to French pastries, few names evoke as much nostalgia and delight as La Madeleine. This sweet, tender bread has been a staple of French bakeries for centuries, and its delicate flavor and crumbly texture have captured the hearts of pastry lovers around the world. But why settle for just one traditional recipe when you can try a variety of delicious twists on this classic? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 mouthwatering La Madeleine recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family at any occasion.
Classic French La Madeleine with Lemon Zest
Experience the essence of France with this timeless recipe, perfect for a sweet treat or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in lemon zest.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., teardrop-shaped La Madeleine).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chocolate Dipped La Madeleine Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with this decadent recipe for Chocolate Dipped La Madeleine Cookies!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until just combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Place dipped cookies on a wire rack set over parchment paper. If desired, dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Almond Flour La Madeleine with Honey Glaze
These French-inspired cookies are a delightful twist on the classic recipe, featuring almond flour and a sweet honey glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Beat in the egg.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before drizzling with honey glaze (mix equal parts honey and water).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Earl Grey Infused La Madeleine
Earl Grey Infused La Madeleine Recipe
Elevate your French pastry game with this Earl Grey infused twist on the classic La Madeleine. The subtle bergamot flavor of Earl Grey tea perfectly complements the buttery, sweet notes of the La Madeleine.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons Earl Grey tea leaves (dried)
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Beat in egg and Earl Grey tea leaves until well combined.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., La Madeleine’s traditional teardrop shape).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each pastry.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Orange Blossom La Madeleine with Pistachios
This sweet treat is a delightful combination of citrusy orange blossom water and crunchy pistachios, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a special occasion or as a gift, this La Madeleine-inspired dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together orange blossom water and sugar. Brush the mixture evenly onto the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the orange-blossom-infused area.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up to create a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lavender and Honey La Madeleine
Discover the sweet and floral flavors of France with this Lavender and Honey La Madeleine recipe, perfect for a delightful afternoon treat or elegant dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon lavender syrup (or 1/4 teaspoon dried lavender buds)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or triangles).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each La Madeleine.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with lavender syrup and honey.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Matcha Green Tea La Madeleine
Experience the perfect blend of Japanese green tea culture and French patisserie with this matcha-infused version of the classic La Madeleine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Stir in matcha powder.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry Swirl La Madeleine
This classic French dessert gets a fruity twist with the addition of raspberries and a drizzle of sweet glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or just a sweet treat, this Raspberry Swirl La Madeleine is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in raspberries.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut and Lime La Madeleine
This sweet treat combines the tropical flavors of coconut and lime in a moist and buttery French-inspired cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, coconut, eggs, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean La Madeleine with Powdered Sugar
Experience the classic French dessert, La Madeleine, elevated by the warmth of vanilla bean and the sweetness of powdered sugar. This tender pastry is perfect for a special treat or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 egg, beaten
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., crescents or squares).
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each pastry.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow pastries to cool before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice La Madeleine for Fall
This sweet bread is a perfect blend of warm spices and pumpkin puree, perfect for the fall season. With its soft texture and delicious aroma, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chai Spiced La Madeleine
Elevate your afternoon with the aromatic flavors of chai and the richness of La Madeleine. This spiced bread is perfect for a cozy gathering or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chai spice blend (see note)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, melted butter, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
3. Add vanilla extract and chai spice blend; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Blueberry Lemon La Madeleine
This French-inspired pastry combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon, resulting in a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. With its flaky crust and fruity filling, this Blueberry Lemon La Madeleine is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 6 equal pieces.
4. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Spoon a small amount onto one end of each dough piece, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Arrange blueberries on top of sugar mixture. Fold opposite end over filling to form a triangle. Brush edges with lemon juice.
6. Place pastries on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt La Madeleine
This classic French pastry gets a decadent twist with the addition of rich dark chocolate and flaky sea salt, creating a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shape (e.g., La Madeleine or squares).
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each pastry.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. While still warm, drizzle with melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rosemary and Olive Oil La Madeleine
A classic French bread infused with the bright flavors of rosemary and olive oil, perfect for serving alongside your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, kneading the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into an oblong loaf.
6. Brush the top of the loaf with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the egg wash.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry and Cream La Madeleine
This classic French dessert, La Madeleine, gets a fresh twist with the addition of sweet strawberries and creamy whipped cream. This simple yet impressive dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 store-bought or homemade croissant or puff pastry, cut into triangles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the croissant or puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into triangles and place on prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Arrange warm pastry triangles on a serving plate. Top each triangle with sliced strawberries and dollop of whipped cream.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Caramel Drizzled La Madeleine
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this scrumptious caramel drizzled la madeleine recipe. Flaky, buttery croissants meet the richness of caramel in a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 package La Madeleine croissant dough (or homemade equivalent)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Sea salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out croissant dough and cut into desired shapes.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until caramel turns amber.
5. Remove from heat and stir in softened butter. Let cool slightly.
6. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cooled croissants. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including baking time)
Gingerbread La Madeleine for the Holidays
This classic French-inspired gingerbread is infused with the warmth of crystallized ginger and the sweetness of honey, perfect for a holiday treat or gift. With its aromatic spices and moist texture, it’s sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add chopped ginger and mix well.
3. Beat in eggs, then stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cloves.
4. Gradually add flour and honey, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tiramisu Inspired La Madeleine
This classic French pastry gets a creamy Italian twist with the addition of tiramisu-inspired flavors and textures. The result is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8-10 ladyfingers
– Strong brewed coffee
– Mascarpone cheese
– Whipped cream
– Cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Place shapes on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow to cool completely before assembling.
6. Dip ladyfingers in coffee, then layer with mascarpone cheese and whipped cream.
7. Dust with cocoa powder and serve.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cherry Almond La Madeleine
A sweet and elegant French-inspired dessert, this Cherry Almond La Madeleine is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home. The combination of tender pastry, juicy cherries, and crunchy almonds will delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cherry jam or preserves
– 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon cherry jam or preserves onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
6. Arrange cherries and almonds on top of the jam.
7. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
8. Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of French-inspired baked goods with these 20 delicious La Madeleine recipes. From classic flavors like lemon zest and chocolate dipped to creative twists like earl grey infused and matcha green tea, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory delight, this collection has it all. With flavors ranging from pumpkin spice to tiramisu-inspired, these La Madeleine recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. Try one today and discover the magic of French baking!
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