mini madeleines are also a treat to behold. These petite shell-shaped cakes are soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet.

And the best part? You don’t have to be a pastry chef to make them. With Ansel’s easy recipe, you can create your own perfect batch of mini madeleines at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus more for greasing the pan
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and frothy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Whisk in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Pour the melted butter into the batter and gently fold until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini madeleine pan with butter and dust with flour, tapping out any excess.
8. Spoon the batter into the madeleine pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the madeleines are golden brown and spring back when touched.
10. Remove the pan from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before removing the madeleines from the molds.
11. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips:

• Be sure to whisk the eggs and sugar until they are pale and frothy – this step is crucial for achieving the signature light and fluffy texture of madeleines.
• Chilling the batter before baking is also important, as it allows the flavors to develop and helps the madeleines to rise properly in the oven.
• Don’t overfill the molds – the batter will expand as it bakes, and you don’t want it to spill over the edges of the pan.
• For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.

Making mini madeleines may seem daunting at first, but with Dominique Ansel’s easy recipe, it’s a breeze. These delicate treats are perfect for afternoon tea, a light dessert, or even as a sweet snack to enjoy with coffee. Give them a try and impress your friends and family with your newfound pastry skills.