Madeleine cookies recipe with cream is the secret to creating the softest, most indulgent French treats. These delicate, shell-shaped cookies are golden and crisp on the outside, yet light, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside. By adding a touch of cream, this recipe takes traditional madeleines to the next level, enhancing their moisture and richness for an irresistible bite.
Despite their elegant appearance, madeleines are surprisingly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this foolproof recipe will guide you to bakery-quality results every time.
Let’s bake the perfect madeleine cookies with cream! 🍪✨
Table of Contents
Why Add Cream to Madeleine Cookies?
When it comes to classic French madeleines, most recipes stick to a traditional formula: eggs, butter, sugar, and flour. But if you’ve ever wished for a slightly softer, more melt-in-your-mouth texture, adding cream is the secret ingredient you need.
The Science Behind Cream in Madeleines
Heavy cream adds extra fat and moisture, which results in:
✔ A softer crumb – The additional fat from the cream creates a more tender bite.
✔ A richer flavor – A slight hint of creamy decadence without overpowering the classic buttery taste.
✔ A balanced texture – Instead of dry or overly crisp madeleines, you get a perfect blend of light, airy, and moist.
How Cream Affects Traditional Madeleines
| Traditional Madeleines | Madeleines with Cream |
|---|---|
| Slightly drier crumb | More moist and tender |
| Crisp edges, airy center | Soft yet still structured |
| Pure butter flavor | Butter + subtle creaminess |
By making this one small tweak, you get madeleines that stay soft and fresh longer, without losing their classic delicate texture.
Now that you know why cream is a game-changer, let’s gather our ingredients and start baking! 🍪✨
What Makes This Recipe Special?
✔ Rich & Buttery Flavor – The combination of cream and butter creates an indulgent, bakery-quality taste.
✔ Soft & Moist Texture – No more dry madeleines! The added cream ensures every bite is delicately tender.
✔ Easy & Foolproof – Even if you’re a beginner baker, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve perfect results every time.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re serving them with tea, coffee, or as a sweet snack, these madeleines are irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we jump into the baking process, let’s make sure you have everything ready. Using high-quality ingredients is the key to achieving that perfectly soft, buttery, and rich madeleine texture.
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Madeleines
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour – The base for structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps create the classic madeleine “hump.”
- A pinch of salt – Enhances flavor balance.
- 2 large eggs – Provides structure and airiness.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps with the crisp edges.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream – The star ingredient for extra softness and richness.
- ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – For that irresistible buttery taste.
Optional Additions for Flavor Variations
Want to customize your madeleines? Try these add-ins:
✔ Lemon zest – Adds a fresh citrusy twist.
✔ Almond extract – Complements the creamy, buttery notes.
✔ Chocolate drizzle – Elevates them into a decadent dessert.
Why These Ingredients Work Together
- The eggs and sugar create a fluffy base when beaten together.
- Heavy cream and butter work together to ensure a rich, moist texture.
- Baking powder provides just the right amount of lift for that signature madeleine shape.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
✔ Madeleine pan – A must-have for the iconic shell shape.
✔ Mixing bowls – For wet and dry ingredients.
✔ Whisk or electric mixer – Helps aerate the eggs and sugar.
✔ Sifter – Ensures a smooth batter with no lumps.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Perfect Madeleines with Cream
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the foolproof method to achieve soft, buttery, and perfectly shaped madeleines.
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
✔ In a medium bowl, sift together:
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
✔ Set aside—this will ensure a lump-free batter and even rise.
Step 2: Beat the Eggs and Sugar (Key for Airiness!)
✔ In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
✔ Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture turns pale, thick, and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, creating that light texture.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters
✔ Stir in:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
✔ Mix gently until well combined. The cream enhances moisture, making the madeleines tender without being dense.
Step 4: Fold in the Dry Ingredients (Gently!)
✔ Gradually sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
✔ Use a spatula to gently fold everything together. Do not overmix! This ensures a delicate, airy crumb.
Step 5: Add the Melted Butter for That Buttery Finish
✔ Slowly drizzle in ⅓ cup (75g) melted unsalted butter, folding it in gently.
✔ The butter adds richness and helps create the signature crisp edges.
Step 6: Chill the Batter (Secret to the Signature Madeleine Hump!)
✔ Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
✔ Why? Chilling helps the batter firm up, creating the classic “hump” when baked.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven & Prep the Pan
✔ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
✔ Grease and flour your madeleine pan to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Fill the Molds & Bake
✔ Spoon or pipe about ¾ full into each shell mold.
✔ Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the centers rise into a beautiful hump.
Step 9: Cool & Serve
✔ Let the madeleines cool in the pan for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
✔ Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or dip in melted chocolate for an extra treat.
Expert Tips for Perfect Madeleines
Even the best bakers run into challenges when making madeleines. To help you achieve perfect results every time, here are some expert tips that guarantee soft, buttery, and beautifully shaped madeleines.
1. Always Chill the Batter (Secret to the Signature “Hump”)
✔ Why it matters: The dramatic hump on a madeleine is a sign of a well-made batch. Chilling the batter creates a temperature contrast when baking, leading to a better rise.
✔ Best practice: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better for more flavor development).
2. Use Room Temperature Eggs
✔ Cold eggs won’t whip up as well, which can affect the light and airy texture of your madeleines.
✔ Let the eggs sit out for 15-20 minutes before using.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
✔ Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, leading to dense, chewy madeleines instead of soft and fluffy ones.
✔ Use a gentle folding motion when combining wet and dry ingredients.
4. Butter & Flour the Pan Properly
✔ This prevents sticking and helps the madeleines release easily after baking.
✔ After buttering the pan, dust it lightly with flour, then tap out the excess.
5. Bake at the Right Temperature for the Best Texture
✔ 375°F (190°C) is the sweet spot—hot enough for a golden brown edge but not too hot to dry them out.
✔ Avoid opening the oven door too soon; this can cause them to deflate.
6. Fill the Molds Correctly
✔ ¾ full is the perfect amount—too little batter and they won’t rise properly, too much and they’ll overflow.
7. Serve Fresh for the Best Taste
✔ Madeleines taste best the day they’re baked, when they’re slightly warm and crisp on the edges.
✔ If storing, keep them in an airtight container to preserve their softness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Madeleines
Even experienced bakers can run into problems when making French madeleines. Here’s a breakdown of the most common mistakes and how to fix them to ensure perfectly soft, buttery, and beautifully shaped madeleines every time.
1. Skipping the Batter Chilling Step
🚨 The mistake: Not chilling the batter before baking.
✅ The fix: Always chill the batter for at least 1 hour (or overnight). This helps develop the classic hump and enhances the texture.
2. Overmixing the Batter
🚨 The mistake: Overmixing when adding the dry ingredients, leading to dense madeleines.
✅ The fix: Use a gentle folding motion with a spatula and stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears.
3. Using Cold Eggs or Butter
🚨 The mistake: Using cold eggs or not allowing the melted butter to cool slightly.
✅ The fix:
✔ Use room temperature eggs to help them whip up properly.
✔ Let melted butter cool slightly before adding it to the batter.
4. Overfilling or Underfilling the Molds
🚨 The mistake: Pouring in too much batter causes the madeleines to overflow, while too little prevents proper rising.
✅ The fix: Fill each mold ¾ full for perfect results.
5. Forgetting to Grease the Pan
🚨 The mistake: Not greasing the madeleine pan properly, causing them to stick.
✅ The fix: Butter and lightly flour the pan before adding batter. This ensures easy removal after baking.
6. Baking at the Wrong Temperature
🚨 The mistake: Baking at too high or too low a temperature.
✅ The fix: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for even baking and golden edges.
7. Leaving Madeleines in the Pan Too Long After Baking
🚨 The mistake: Letting them sit too long in the pan makes them soggy.
✅ The fix: Allow madeleines to cool for 2 minutes in the pan, then transfer them to a wire rack.
Flavor Variations & Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the classic cream-infused madeleine, why not take it a step further? Madeleines are incredibly versatile, and small flavor tweaks can transform them into something unique and even more delicious. Here are some irresistible variations and serving ideas to elevate your madeleines.
1. Flavor Variations
🍋 Lemon Madeleines (Bright & Citrusy)
✔ Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a fresh citrus kick.
✔ Optional: Drizzle with a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar + lemon juice).
🍊 Orange & Honey Madeleines (Sweet & Floral)
✔ Replace ½ of the sugar with honey for a floral sweetness.
✔ Add orange zest for a warm, fruity aroma.
🍫 Chocolate-Dipped Madeleines (Decadent & Fancy)
✔ Once cooled, dip the edges of your madeleines in melted dark chocolate.
✔ Sprinkle with sea salt, crushed nuts, or cocoa powder for extra flair.
🌰 Almond Madeleines (Nutty & Buttery)
✔ Add ½ teaspoon almond extract to enhance the nutty profile.
✔ Sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
☕ Coffee-Infused Madeleines (Rich & Aromatic)
✔ Mix 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the batter.
✔ Serve with a latte or cappuccino for a cozy treat.
2. Serving Suggestions
✔ With Tea or Coffee ☕ – The classic pairing! Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea.
✔ Dusted with Powdered Sugar – A simple, elegant touch that enhances the presentation.
✔ Served with Whipped Cream & Berries – Makes for a light, yet indulgent dessert.
✔ As an Ice Cream Sandwich 🍦 – Slice in half and add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream.
✔ Dipped in Honey or Jam 🍯 – A great way to add extra sweetness without overpowering the buttery flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Baking madeleines might seem intimidating at first, but with the right techniques, you’ll get soft, buttery, and perfectly shaped madeleines every time. Here are answers to some of the most common questions bakers have about this recipe.
Why Did My Madeleines Turn Out Flat?
The Problem: Your madeleines didn’t develop the classic “hump” in the center.
The Solution:
Chill the batter for at least 1 hour (or overnight). This helps create the temperature contrast needed for a high rise.
Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
Don’t overfill the molds—¾ full is the perfect amount.
How Do I Keep My Madeleines from Sticking to the Pan?
The Problem: Your madeleines are stuck, making them hard to remove.
The Solution:
Always butter and flour the pan before adding batter.
Use a non-stick madeleine pan for best results.
Let the madeleines cool for just 2 minutes before removing them—waiting too long can make them stick.
How Do I Store Madeleines to Keep Them Fresh?
The Problem: Madeleines tend to dry out quickly.
The Solution:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes! Chilling the batter overnight actually improves the flavor and texture. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking.
Can I Make Madeleines Without a Madeleine Pan?
You can bake them in a mini muffin tin, but they won’t have the classic shell shape. The flavor will still be amazing!
Soft & Buttery Madeleine Cookies Recipe with Cream
Equipment
- Madeleine Pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand Mixer or Whisk
- Sifter
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour Sifted
- 1 tsp Baking powder Helps rise
- 1 pinch Salt Enhances flavor
- 2 large Eggs Room temperature
- ½ cup Granulated sugar Adds sweetness
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract For aroma
- ¼ cup Heavy cream For a soft texture
- ⅓ cup Unsalted butter Melted & cooled
- – Powdered sugar For dusting optional
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- 2️⃣ Beat Eggs & Sugar:
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar for 3-4 minutes until pale and fluffy.
- 3️⃣ Mix in Vanilla & Cream:
- Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream until smooth.
- 4️⃣ Fold in Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined.
- 5️⃣ Incorporate Melted Butter:
- Slowly mix in melted butter until fully incorporated. Do not overmix.
- 6️⃣ Chill the Batter:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (for the signature hump!).
- 7️⃣ Preheat & Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease and flour a madeleine pan.
- 8️⃣ Fill & Bake:
- Fill each mold ¾ full and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- 9️⃣ Cool & Serve:
- Let cool for 2 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Dust with powdered sugar or dip in chocolate for extra indulgence.
Notes
- For extra fluffiness, chill the batter overnight.
- Want a citrusy twist? Add 1 tsp lemon zest.
- Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with coffee or tea! ☕🍪
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
🎉 You did it! Now you have the ultimate Madeleine Cookies Recipe with Cream, giving you soft, buttery, and bakery-worthy treats every time. Whether you’re enjoying them with tea, coffee, or as a standalone dessert, these madeleines are sure to impress!
💬 Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out! 📸 Tag us on Instagram with your madeleine photos—we’d love to see your creations!
🔄 Share this recipe with friends and family or save it on Pinterest for later!
Looking for more easy cookie ideas? Check out our full collection of Easy Cookie Recipes to discover other delicious treats!”