Épingler  Classic French madeleines are given a sophisticated update with a cherry martini glaze, resulting in a light, buttery treat with a hint of boozy fruitiness, perfect for afternoon tea or cocktail hour.
The first time I baked these madeleines with a cherry martini glaze, I brought them to a small gathering for friends and they disappeared within minutes. Their combination of classic flavors and grown-up glaze makes them a memorable treat for sharing.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 120 g (1 cup)
 - Unsalted butter: 100 g (7 tbsp), plus extra for greasing
 - Eggs: 2 large
 - Granulated sugar: 100 g (1/2 cup)
 - Pure vanilla extract: 1 tsp
 - Almond extract: 1/2 tsp
 - Baking powder: 1/2 tsp
 - Salt: Pinch
 - Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
 - Powdered sugar: 75 g (2/3 cup)
 - Cherry liqueur: 1 tbsp (e.g. Cherry Heering or Maraschino)
 - Gin or vodka: 1 tbsp
 - Fresh lemon juice: 1 tbsp
 - Cherry preserves: 2 3 tsp strained, optional, for color and flavor
 - Maraschino cherries: Finely chopped, for garnish, optional
 
Instructions
- Prep the pan:
 - Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Generously butter and lightly flour a madeleine pan.
 - Melt the butter:
 - Melt the butter and let it cool to room temperature.
 - Mix eggs and sugar:
 - In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and thick (about 3 minutes).
 - Add flavors:
 - Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest.
 - Combine dry ingredients:
 - Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then gently fold into the egg mixture.
 - Fold in butter:
 - Fold in the cooled melted butter until just combined.
 - Fill molds:
 - Spoon the batter into the prepared molds, filling each about 3/4 full.
 - Bake:
 - Bake for 10 12 minutes, until the madeleines are golden and just springy to the touch.
 - Cool:
 - Remove from oven and gently turn the madeleines out onto a wire rack to cool.
 - Prepare glaze:
 - Whisk together the powdered sugar, cherry liqueur, gin or vodka, lemon juice, and strained cherry preserves until smooth and pourable.
 - Glaze and garnish:
 - When the madeleines are cool, dip or drizzle each with the cherry martini glaze. Garnish with chopped maraschino cherries if desired. Allow glaze to set before serving.
 
   Épingler  These madeleines quickly became a family favorite; my grandmother keeps hinting for more batches whenever cherry season rolls around.
Required Tools
Madeleine pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, sifter, spatula, saucepan for melting butter, wire rack.
Nutritional Information (per madeleine)
Calories: 95, Total Fat: 4.5 g, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Protein: 1.2 g
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a real cherry martini for a playful pairing, or alongside afternoon tea to highlight their delicate flavor.
   Épingler  Enjoy these madeleines fresh for the best texture. They're perfect for sharing at any celebration.
Questions fréquentes sur la recette
- → How do I achieve the signature madeleine shell shape?
 Use a madeleine pan, butter and flour it well so the batter forms crisp edges and releases easily after baking.
- → Can I substitute the cherry liqueur for a non-alcoholic version?
 Yes, use cherry juice and tonic water instead for a family-friendly glaze with similar flavor notes.
- → What adds extra flavor to the sponge?
 Lemon zest and almond extract provide subtle citrus and nutty undertones, enhancing the madeleine's taste.
- → Is there a trick for a smooth glaze?
 Whisk ingredients thoroughly and strain cherry preserves if using, ensuring a glossy finish that spreads evenly.
- → Can these treats be made in advance?
 Yes, you can bake madeleines ahead and glaze them once fully cooled. Store in an airtight container for freshness.
- → What are typical allergens present?
 Contains eggs, wheat, dairy, and possibly tree nuts (almond extract). Check cherry ingredients for sulfites.