Rose Water Madeleines

Rose Water Madeleines Recipe - French Dessert Recipe

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 40 minutes | Cooking time: 10-13 minutes | Servings: 24 madeleines

Introduction

Rose Water Madeleines are delicate and fragrant French butter cakes that are perfect for a light and elegant dessert or snack. The addition of rose water gives these madeleines a unique and floral flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery richness of the cake.

History

Madeleines are believed to have originated in the Lorraine region of France in the 18th century. The traditional madeleine recipe calls for simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. The addition of rose water is a modern twist on this classic recipe, adding a subtle floral note to the cakes.

Ingredients

0.75 cup plus 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp salt
3 large eggs
0.5 cup sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 tsp plus 2 tbsp rose water
8 tbsp (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and at room temperature
butter-flavored cooking spray

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat eggs and sugar on medium speed until pale and foamy, for 3 to 4 minutes.
Beat in vanilla and 2 tsp of rose water.
Fold in the flour mixture.
Fold in the butter.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400°F and place the rack in the center.
Coat two scallop-shell pans with cooking spray.
Use a spoon to fill the molds three-quarters full.
Bake for 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to 375°F (191°C) and bake for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, until lightly golden.
Immediately tap out the madeleines onto a cooling rack.
Drizzle the madeleines with the remaining 2 tbsp of rose water.
Let the madeleines cool with the scallop side up to avoid any creases or lines from the rack.
Repeat the process with the remaining batter.

Variations

Substitute almond extract for the rose water for a different flavor profile.
Add lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chill the batter before baking to help the madeleines achieve their signature hump.

- Use a scallop-shell pan to create the traditional madeleine shape.

- Drizzling the madeleines with rose water after baking adds an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rose Water Madeleines with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Beating the eggs and sugar until pale and foamy helps create a light and airy texture in the madeleines.

- Folding in the flour and butter gently helps maintain the delicate texture of the cakes.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.

- Coconut oil can be used in place of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the batter for Rose Water Madeleines ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the madeleines on a decorative platter and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Rose Water Madeleines pair well with a glass of sparkling rosé or a floral tea such as chamomile.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the madeleines in a 300°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rose Water Madeleines contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rose Water Madeleines contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rose Water Madeleines contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rose Water Madeleines contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rose Water Madeleines are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Rose Water Madeleines contain gluten, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

Rose Water Madeleines are a light and delicate treat that is relatively low in calories and provides a small amount of carbohydrates and fats.

Summary

Rose Water Madeleines are a delightful and elegant treat that is perfect for a special occasion or a simple afternoon snack. The addition of rose water adds a unique and fragrant flavor to these classic French cakes. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Rose Water Madeleines. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Clara in her charming little cottage in the countryside. Clara was a wonderful cook and always had the most delicious treats waiting for me whenever I came to visit.

On this particular day, as I walked into Clara's cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most enticing aroma of freshly baked madeleines. The delicate scent of rose water lingered in the air, and I couldn't resist asking Clara for the recipe.

She smiled warmly and began to tell me about how she learned to make these exquisite little cakes. Clara explained that she had discovered the recipe in an old cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations. The recipe had been handed down from her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago.

As Clara shared the recipe with me, I was captivated by her storytelling. She spoke of the simple joys of baking and how the scent of rose water always reminded her of her grandmother's kitchen. I could almost picture the old wooden table covered in flour and the sound of laughter filling the room as they baked together.

Intrigued by Clara's tale, I asked if she would teach me how to make the Rose Water Madeleines. She eagerly agreed and we spent the afternoon baking together, sharing stories and laughter as we worked.

The recipe itself was surprisingly simple, with just a few basic ingredients: butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and of course, rose water. Clara showed me how to gently fold the batter, creating a light and airy texture that would result in the perfect madeleine.

As the madeleines baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the sweet scent of rose water. I closed my eyes and let the aroma wash over me, transporting me back to Clara's grandmother's kitchen and all the cherished memories she had shared with me.

When the madeleines were finally ready, Clara and I sat down at her kitchen table to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The delicate little cakes were golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside, with a soft and buttery interior that melted in your mouth.

With each bite, I could taste the love and history that had gone into making these Rose Water Madeleines. I felt grateful to Clara for sharing this recipe with me and for allowing me to experience a small piece of her family's legacy.

As I left Clara's cottage that day, she handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe for the Rose Water Madeleines. I tucked it into my apron pocket, knowing that I would treasure it always and pass it down to future generations, just as Clara had done for me.

And so, whenever I bake these delicate little cakes, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Clara's kitchen, of the stories and traditions that have been woven into this recipe over the years. The scent of rose water fills my own kitchen now, bringing back memories of laughter, friendship, and the simple joys of sharing a delicious treat with someone you love.