Name: Tangerine Madeleines
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons Tangerine zest; 5 large Eggs; 1.75 cups All-purpose flour; 1.5 teaspoons Baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 cup Unsalted butter, melted; 0.25 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1 cup Confectioners’ sugar (for serving)

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Whenever I think of the perfect afternoon treat, Tangerine Madeleines come to mind. I still remember the first time I tasted these delightful little cakes. It was a sunny spring day, and I had just returned from a stroll through my favorite local farmer’s market, my bag filled with fresh produce and the vibrant scent of tangy tangerines still lingering in the air. I decided to whip up a batch of Tangerine Madeleines, inspired by the citrus fruit I had just bought. The aroma of butter and citrus zest wafting through my kitchen brought back memories of my childhood, where my grandmother would bake similar treats, filling our home with warmth and nostalgia. These madeleines are not just cakes; they embody the joy of spring, the freshness of tangerines, and the reminder that sometimes, the simplest recipes bring the greatest pleasures.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
120 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

What Sets This Tangerine Madeleines Apart

1. A Burst of Flavor

What I adore about Tangerine Madeleines is their bright, zesty flavor. The addition of tangerine zest infuses each bite with a sunshine-like brightness that simply uplifts your mood. Each madeleine is a tiny explosion of flavor, perfect for savoring with a cup of tea or coffee.

2. Unique Texture

These delightful treats boast a unique texture that’s hard to resist. The exterior is slightly crisp while the inside remains soft and airy. This contrast creates a delightful experience with every bite, making you want to reach for just one more.

3. Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced baker—making Tangerine Madeleines is quite simple! With just a few basic ingredients, you can create these charming cakes. The steps are straightforward, and I guarantee you’ll feel accomplished when you pull them out of the oven.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a sweet treat to enjoy after dinner, or simply want something indulgent for yourself, these madeleines fit the bill. They are versatile enough to suit any occasion!

5. Great for Gifting

If you’re ever in need of a thoughtful gift, consider making a batch of Tangerine Madeleines. Package them in a beautiful box or tin, and they’ll make a lovely token that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Everything You Need for Tangerine Madeleines

The ingredients for Tangerine Madeleines are simple yet potent in flavor. Each element plays a vital role in creating the perfect madeleine. The fresh tangerine zest not only adds flavor but also brightens up the entire cake. Butter is a key player, providing richness and moisture, while granulated sugar ensures the right sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that makes for an unforgettable treat.

1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar: This is our primary sweetener, adding just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tangy zest.
2 tablespoons tangerine zest: Freshly grated zest infuses the madeleines with a vibrant citrus flavor.
5 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture to the batter, ensuring the madeleines rise beautifully.
1¾ cups (219 grams) all-purpose flour: The foundation of our batter, giving the madeleines their characteristic texture.
1½ teaspoons (7.5 grams) baking powder: This leavening agent helps the madeleines to rise and become fluffy.
¼ teaspoon (0.75 gram) kosher salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
Garnish: confectioners’ sugar, for serving: Adding a light dusting of powdered sugar enhances the presentation and provides a touch of sweetness.

Directions for Tangerine Madeleines

Making Tangerine Madeleines is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and fragrance. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of heavenly cakes ready to enjoy. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 325°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your madeleines.
Spray a 24-well madeleine pan with baking spray that contains flour. This ensures that your madeleines won’t stick and come out perfectly shaped.
In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, tangerine zest, and eggs. You want to combine these ingredients until they become frothy and pale in color, which indicates they are well-mixed.
In another medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This step is essential to evenly distribute the leavening agent, ensuring that your madeleines rise uniformly.
Now, add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture. Gently stir them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that light texture!
Next, pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract in a steady stream while whisking constantly. This technique helps to emulsify the mixture, creating a smooth batter.
Once your batter is ready, cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate it for at least two hours. This chilling time is crucial as it helps the madeleines to develop their signature texture.
After chilling, spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan by teaspoonfuls. Fill each cavity about three-quarters full for the best results.
Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes. The madeleines should spring back when pressed lightly and turn a lovely golden brown.
Let the madeleines cool in the pan for five minutes. This resting time allows them to set up nicely.
Gently tap the madeleines out onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps them keep their beautiful shape.
Finally, sift confectioners’ sugar over the warm madeleines before serving. Enjoy them immediately for the best texture!

Things Worth Knowing

Chill the Batter: Always refrigerate the batter for at least two hours. This step helps develop the cake’s structure and enhances the texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain a light and airy texture.
Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the madeleines as they bake. Remove them as soon as they’re golden brown.
Use Fresh Zest: For the best flavor, always use fresh tangerine zest instead of bottled zest.

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some useful tips and substitutions for making Tangerine Madeleines even more delightful.

Storage: Keep leftover madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing: These madeleines freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer bag.
Pairing: Enjoy these madeleines with a cup of tea or coffee for a wonderful afternoon treat.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with other citrus zests, like lemon or orange, for a different twist!
Serving Suggestions: Serve the madeleines warm, dusted with confectioners’ sugar for a lovely finishing touch.

What to Serve With Tangerine Madeleines

Finding the perfect accompaniments to your Tangerine Madeleines can elevate your snack experience. Here are some ideas:

Tea Time Treat: These madeleines pair wonderfully with any afternoon tea, complementing the warmth and flavors perfectly.
Brunch Delight: Serve Tangerine Madeleines at your next brunch gathering alongside fresh fruits and pastries.
Elegant Dessert: For a fancy dessert, plate them with a scoop of sorbet or alongside a light fruit salad.
Holiday Gatherings: These madeleines make a lovely addition to any holiday spread, especially during springtime events.
Savory Pairing: Consider pairing them with a light cheese platter featuring tangy cheeses that harmonize with the citrus flavor.

FAQ

Absolutely! While tangerine zest gives these madeleines their unique flavor, you can easily substitute it with other citrus zests like lemon, orange, or even lime. Just remember that each citrus will bring its own distinct taste, so choose one that you love!

To store your leftover Tangerine Madeleines, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure to freeze them individually before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent sticking.

Chilling the batter for at least two hours is crucial for the texture of your Tangerine Madeleines. It allows the flour to hydrate fully, leading to a lighter crumb and helps the madeleines to rise better while baking, ensuring they have that delightful airy texture.

Yes, you can! The Tangerine Madeleines can be made a day ahead. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, you can dust them with confectioners’ sugar to refresh their look and taste!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tangerine Madeleines are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your day. Their unique texture and bright taste make them a fantastic choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try making these charming little cakes and enjoy the joy they bring to your palate. Happy baking!