Orange Hazelnut Madeleines

Orange Hazelnut Madeleines are a delightful and aromatic twist on the classic French madeleine. These dainty, shell-shaped sponge cakes are infused with the bright and zesty flavors of fresh oranges, balanced by the earthy richness of toasted hazelnuts. The result is a perfect harmony of citrus and nutty notes, creating a sweet treat that’s both elegant and comforting. With their distinctive scalloped edges and a tender, buttery crumb, Orange Hazelnut Madeleines are a delectable fusion of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible addition to any tea time or dessert table.

Why you will love Orange Hazelnut Madeleines?

Unique Flavor Combination: These madeleines offer a delightful and unique flavor combination that combines the bright and zesty notes of fresh oranges with the earthy richness of toasted hazelnuts. This balance of citrus and nuttiness creates a one-of-a-kind taste that’s both refreshing and comforting.
Elegant Presentation: The distinctive shell shape of madeleines adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Serving these Orange Hazelnut Madeleines will impress your guests and make your tea time or dessert table look more refined.

Delicate and Tender Texture: Madeleines are known for their tender and buttery crumb, and these are no exception. They melt in your mouth, providing a truly satisfying and indulgent eating experience.
Versatility: While they are perfect for tea or coffee, you can also serve Orange Hazelnut Madeleines as a dessert. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making them a versatile treat.
Easy to Make: Making madeleines is relatively simple, and the recipe for Orange Hazelnut Madeleines is no exception. With a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create these delectable treats in your own kitchen.

Aroma and Flavor Exploration: Baking these madeleines fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of citrus and toasted hazelnuts. It’s an olfactory experience as much as a gustatory one.
Customization: You can adapt the level of orange and hazelnut flavor to your personal preferences. If you love citrus, add more zest and juice. If you prefer a stronger nutty taste, increase the amount of hazelnuts.
Ideal for Gifting: Orange Hazelnut Madeleines make a thoughtful and charming gift. They are easy to package and share with friends and loved ones, making them a great choice for special occasions or holiday treats.

In summary, Orange Hazelnut Madeleines are a delightful and delectable treat that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Their unique flavor profile, elegant appearance, and the pleasure of savoring each bite make them a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire.

Orange Hazelnut Madeleines Recipe

Ingredients:

2/3 cup (150g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/4 cup (30g) finely ground toasted hazelnuts

Zest of 1 large orange
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar for dusting
Additional butter and flour for greasing and dusting the madeleine molds

Instructions:

Prepare the Madeleine Pans:
- Generously butter the madeleine molds and dust them with a light coating of flour, tapping out any excess. This will prevent the madeleines from sticking.

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the desired temperature while you prepare the batter.
Melt and Cool the Butter:
- Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave or on the stovetop. Let it cool to room temperature.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the finely ground toasted hazelnuts.

Beat Eggs and Sugar:
- In another mixing bowl, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
Add Orange Zest and Juice:
- Stir in the freshly grated orange zest and the 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice into the egg and sugar mixture.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and hazelnuts) into the wet mixture, making sure not to overmix. This will ensure your madeleines remain tender.

Add Melted Butter:
- Pour the cooled, melted butter into the batter and fold until well combined.
Chill the Batter:
- Cover the batter with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Chilling the batter is crucial for achieving those characteristic madeleine humps.
Fill the Madeleine Molds:
- Once the batter has chilled, spoon it into the prepared madeleine molds, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Do not spread the batter; it will naturally flow to fill the mold.

Bake:
- Place the madeleine pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the madeleines turn golden and the centers spring back when touched.
Cool and Dust:
- Remove the madeleines from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes in the pans. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

These Orange Hazelnut Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. Serve them with your favorite hot beverage and savor the delightful blend of citrus and nutty flavors.

Nutrition information

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown for Orange Hazelnut Madeleines per serving, based on a standard recipe that yields about 12 madeleines. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories per madeleine
Total Fat: Approximately 7-9 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 4-5 grams

Cholesterol: Approximately 35-45 milligrams
Sodium: Approximately 50-60 milligrams
Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 11-13 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Less than 1 gram
- Sugars: Approximately 6-8 grams
Protein: Approximately 2-3 grams

Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as any modifications to the recipe. To get a precise nutritional breakdown, it’s advisable to use a recipe calculator or consult the packaging of the individual ingredients. Additionally, if you have specific dietary restrictions or requirements, you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly to meet your needs.

Tips to make perfect Orange Hazelnut Madeleines

To make perfect Orange Hazelnut Madeleines, follow these tips for success:

Chill the Batter: After preparing the batter, refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or even overnight. Chilled batter helps create the characteristic “hump” in the center of madeleines.

Properly Grease and Flour the Pans: Ensure you generously butter and flour the madeleine molds or use non-stick pans to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy removal of the madeleines.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh oranges for both zest and juice to achieve a vibrant citrus flavor. Freshly ground hazelnuts will also provide the best nutty undertones.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be gentle and fold them together just until they are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense madeleines.

Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the madeleines while baking. They are ready when the edges turn golden and the centers spring back when lightly touched. Overbaking can result in dry madeleines.
Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to the specified temperature before placing the madeleine pans inside. This ensures even and consistent baking.
Choose the Right Pan: Traditional madeleine pans have shell-shaped molds that help with the characteristic appearance, but non-stick silicone molds can also work well. Experiment with different pans to see which you prefer.

Don’t Overfill the Molds: Fill the madeleine molds about 3/4 full. The batter will naturally spread to fill the mold as it bakes.
Let the Madeleines Rest: After removing the madeleines from the oven, let them cool in the pans for a minute or two. This makes them easier to release. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with Powdered Sugar: Just before serving, dust the madeleines with powdered sugar. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also enhances their visual appeal.

Customize the Flavors: Feel free to adjust the amount of orange zest and juice to suit your taste preferences. If you love a stronger citrus flavor, add more zest and juice. Similarly, you can adjust the amount of hazelnuts for a more pronounced nutty taste.
Serve Fresh: Orange Hazelnut Madeleines are best enjoyed when freshly baked. If you need to store them, place them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking perfect Orange Hazelnut Madeleines with a delightful blend of citrus and nutty flavors and that characteristic tender, buttery crumb.

How to serve

Orange Hazelnut Madeleines can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of these delicious treats:

Tea Time Treat: Madeleines are a classic accompaniment to tea or coffee. Serve them on a beautiful plate alongside your favorite hot beverage for a simple and elegant teatime treat.
Dessert Delight: Turn Orange Hazelnut Madeleines into a sophisticated dessert by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The combination of warm madeleines and cold ice cream is especially enticing.

Afternoon Snack: These madeleines make a perfect afternoon snack, offering a balance of sweetness and a delightful blend of orange and hazelnut flavors. Serve them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a comforting snack.
Brunch or Breakfast: Set out a plate of Orange Hazelnut Madeleines as part of a brunch spread. They pair well with fresh fruit, yogurt, and other breakfast items, adding a touch of elegance to your morning meal.
Holiday or Special Occasion Treat: Make Orange Hazelnut Madeleines for special occasions and holidays. They’re perfect for gatherings and celebrations, and their unique flavors and shell shape make them stand out.

Gifts and Party Favors: Package these madeleines in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful and personalized gift or party favor. They make excellent treats for weddings, showers, and other events.
Picnic or Outdoor Gathering: Bring madeleines on a picnic or to an outdoor gathering for a portable and easy-to-enjoy sweet treat. They’re less messy than many other desserts and can be shared with friends and family.
Elevated Cookie Swap: Consider swapping traditional cookies for Orange Hazelnut Madeleines during the holiday season. They’re a sophisticated alternative that your friends and family will appreciate.

Remember to dust the madeleines with a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful finishing touch. Whether you serve them as a simple teatime snack or dress them up for a special occasion, Orange Hazelnut Madeleines are a versatile and delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various settings and alongside a variety of beverages and accompaniments.

How to store

To maintain the freshness and quality of your Orange Hazelnut Madeleines, it’s essential to store them properly. Here are some tips on how to store madeleines:

Cool Completely: Allow the madeleines to cool completely to room temperature before storing. If you store them while they are still warm, they can become soggy.

Airtight Container: Place the madeleines in an airtight container, preferably one with a tight-sealing lid. This helps prevent moisture and air from affecting the texture and flavor of the madeleines.
Layering: If you need to stack the madeleines in the container, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the madeleines within 1-2 days, you can store them at room temperature. Keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Refrigeration: For longer storage (up to a week), refrigerate the madeleines. This is especially important if your kitchen is particularly warm or humid. The cold temperature will help maintain their freshness.
Freezing: Madeleines can also be frozen for extended storage. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to several months. To freeze, make sure they are completely cooled and then wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy frozen madeleines, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. You can also gently reheat them in a preheated oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to refresh their texture and flavor.

Prevent Odors: Store madeleines away from strongly scented foods to avoid them absorbing unwanted odors.

It’s important to note that madeleines are best when enjoyed fresh, but proper storage techniques can help extend their shelf life without compromising their quality. Whether you choose to keep them at room temperature, in the refrigerator, or in the freezer, following these storage guidelines will help preserve the deliciousness of your Orange Hazelnut Madeleines.

FAQ’s

What are Orange Hazelnut Madeleines? Orange Hazelnut Madeleines are a variation of the classic French madeleine, infused with the flavors of fresh oranges and toasted hazelnuts. They are small, shell-shaped sponge cakes with a unique combination of citrus and nutty notes.

How do I store Orange Hazelnut Madeleines? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. You can also freeze them for several months by placing them in an airtight bag or container.
Can I make these without hazelnuts for nut allergies? Yes, you can omit hazelnuts if you have nut allergies. The madeleines will still have a delightful orange flavor without the nutty undertones.
Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange zest and juice? While fresh zest and juice provide a more vibrant and natural orange flavor, you can use orange extract if you prefer or if fresh oranges are not available. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

What is the best way to serve Orange Hazelnut Madeleines? They are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve them as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Why did my madeleines turn out flat? Flat madeleines can result from overmixing the batter or not properly chilling it before baking. Be gentle when folding the ingredients, and make sure the batter rests in the refrigerator for at least an hour.

Why are my madeleines sticking to the pan? Properly greasing and flouring the madeleine molds or using a non-stick pan is crucial to prevent sticking. Additionally, wait a minute or two after removing them from the oven before trying to unmold them.
How can I prevent my madeleines from becoming too dry? Overbaking can lead to dry madeleines. Ensure you follow the recommended baking time and temperature and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn golden at the edges and spring back when touched.
Why are my madeleines too dense? Dense madeleines may result from overmixing the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and avoid overworking the mixture. Also, check that your leavening agent (baking powder) is fresh.

What if my madeleines lack flavor? Ensure you use fresh oranges for zest and juice to achieve a vibrant citrus flavor. You can also adjust the amount of zest and juice to your taste preferences.

Remember that baking can be a bit of trial and error, so don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. With practice, you’ll master the art of making delicious Orange Hazelnut Madeleines.

Happy baking!