Indulge in the delicate allure of our Madeleines au Citron recipe, a French-inspired delight that adds a touch of sophistication to our Afternoon Tea gathering. These dainty and buttery lemon-infused madeleines are the epitome of elegance, with their distinct shell-like shape and delightful citrus aroma. Prepare to transport your taste buds to the streets of Paris as we embark on a culinary journey to craft these exquisite Madeleines au Citron, a true testament to the art of fine pastry and a perfect accompaniment to our Afternoon Tea affair.

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1-2/3 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 cup + 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup, finely ground unblanched almonds
  • 6 large egg whites
  • 1 Tablespoon lavender honey
  • Grated zest of 2 lemons
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • softened unsalted butter and flour for molds

Directions:

  1. Butter and flour madeleine tins.
  2. In a large saucepan, heat the butter over moderately high heat until it begins to brown and give off a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes.  Transfer it to a medium-sized metal or ceramic bowl to stop the cooking.  
  3. Sift sugar and flour into a medium bowl and stir in the ground almonds.   
  4. In the bowl of an electric mixer, whisk the egg whites until frothy.  Add the almond/flour/sugar mixture and whisk until thoroughly combined.  Whisk in brown butter, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice until blended.  
  5. Spoon the batter into the molds, filling them almost to the top. Refrigerate for an hour to firm the batter.
  6. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Bake the madeleines for about 12-15 minutes until springy to the touch.  Remove from the oven, sharply rap the tins against the surface to loosen the madeleines. Unmold immediately and transfer to a rack to cool.

Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.