The other day we had a luncheon for the girls and I decided to come up with a sweet gift as a reminder of a dream trip we all would like to take someday. Madeleines are the perfect French dessert. I searched for the perfect little tray to place some delicious cookies on and I thought these would make a nice take-home gift. This was my first time making these cookies, so I did take the time to rest the dough and find the right tray. It was worth the effort! These are now my go-to cookie that I make for my guests dropping by to say hello and share a cup or two of tea with.

These square dishes are so beautiful with a Paris theme (hint: where we would all like to go someday) . I found them at the Barnes and Noble bookstore and are made by Fringe Studio. The plates come in many different sizes and pictures, perfect for adding soaps, perfumes, just about any tiny gift too. I chose this plate first, then added the cookie idea and the black and white theme.

Then I chose to bake French Madeleine cookies and I was off again looking for the pan. I only bought one but should have bought two. These can be found at Sur La Table or Williams Sonoma. Of course, I always like to take myself out of my comfort zone, and into an area of cooking I have never been. I thought about meringues cookies but they still scare me. You know, those pretty pink, green, blue ones with a filling. So Cute. But not yet. Then, I saw Lemon Madeleines in Martha Stewart ‘s Baking Handbook and was sold on this idea and the recipe.

Lemon Zest Madeleines

This easy and delicious recipe takes to me to Paris in my kitchen. Take as a gift and share with friends. This makes the perfect cookie. Dough needs to be chilled so read recipe thoroughly and plan ahead.

Course Dessert

Cuisine French

Keyword cookie, dessert, lemon, madeleines

Author Inspired by Martha Stewart

Ingredients

1 stick unsalted butter, plus more for the pan
3/4 cup all -purpose flour
Scant 1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon pure lemon extract
3 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preparation

In a small saucepan, melt butter. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl whisk together flours and sugar.
Add the lemon zest and extract to cooled butter and stir.
In a large bowl combine the eggs wit the salt, and whisk until frothy.
Whisk in the flour mixture.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled at least 2 hours or overnight.