Mary Berry Madeleine Recipe

Name: Mary Berry's French Madeleines
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 25 to 30 Madeleines
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 140 grams butter; 3 large free-range eggs; 140 grams caster sugar; 140 grams self-raising flour; 0.5 teaspoon baking powder; Zest from 1 lemon

Delve into the delicate world of French Madeleines with a classic recipe inspired by Mary Berry, the renowned British food writer and television presenter. These small, shell-shaped sponge cakes are a perfect blend of elegance and simplicity, making them a beloved treat across the globe.

Mary Berry's French Madeleines: A Brief Overview

French Madeleines, known for their moist texture and thin, crispy outer shell, are a staple in French baking. Infused with the zest of lemon, these cakes offer a subtle, refreshing flavor that's hard to resist. This recipe, adapted from Mary Berry's collection, promises to deliver about 25 to 30 delightful madeleines, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own.

Ingredients for the Cherry and Coconut Cake

To create these exquisite madeleines, you will need:

Butter: 140 grams, ensuring your madeleines have that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Eggs: 3 large, free-range, to add volume and airiness to the batter.
Caster Sugar: 140 grams, for the right balance of sweetness.
Self-Raising Flour: 140 grams, to give the madeleines their characteristic lightness.
Baking Powder: 0.5 teaspoon, to ensure a perfect rise.
Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon, adding a bright, citrusy note to the cakes.

Preparation Instructions

The process involves preheating your oven, preparing the Madeleine tray, and creating a batter with the right consistency and flavor. The key steps include melting the butter, whisking eggs with sugar to a pale consistency, and gently folding in the flour, baking powder, and lemon zest. The batter is then spooned into the molds and baked until golden and risen.

Storage and Reheating

Once cooled, Madeleines can be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you find yourself with leftovers, these cakes can be gently reheated to revive their original glory. For longer storage, Madeleines can be frozen and enjoyed at a later date.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this delightful treat comes with an approximate calorie count of 75, alongside a nutritional breakdown of fats, carbohydrates, and protein. This makes them a relatively guilt-free option for those mindful of their intake.

FAQ about the French Madeleines

How do I prevent Madeleines from sticking to the tray? Proper greasing with softened butter and a light dusting of flour should ensure your madeleines release from the tray effortlessly.

Can you freeze Madeleines for storage? Yes, once cooled, wrap them in wax paper and aluminum foil before placing in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to a month.

How do you keep Madeleines crispy? Storing in an airtight glass container with a paper towel at the bottom helps absorb excess moisture, keeping them crisp.

What type of knife should you use to take out Madeleines from the tray? A palette knife is recommended for its shape and flexibility, minimizing damage to the delicate cakes.

How do the French eat Madeleines? Traditionally, Madeleines are enjoyed with tea or as is, to savor their lemony flavor and tender texture.

Enjoy the process of creating these classic French Madeleines, a testament to Mary Berry's enduring influence on the world of baking. Whether served at a high tea or as a delightful snack, these madeleines are sure to impress with their elegant appearance and sublime taste.