There’s something magical about Madeleine cookies—those delicate, shell-shaped treats with a golden crust and soft, buttery center. But what if we took them up a notch? Enter this Madeleine cookies recipe using cream, where rich heavy cream adds an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that perfect light and fluffy madeleine with a slightly crisp edge, you’re in the right place. These French-inspired cookies are surprisingly easy to make, yet they carry an air of elegance that makes them perfect for both casual coffee breaks and fancy afternoon teas.
So, whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this creamy madeleine recipe will become your new obsession. Trust me—you’ll want to keep a batch on hand at all times!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Madeleine Cookies
If you’ve never baked Madeleine cookies with cream, you’re in for a treat! These little French-inspired delights are the perfect balance of elegance and comfort, making them a must-have in your baking repertoire. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
– Ultra-soft and buttery – The addition of heavy cream makes these homemade madeleines extra tender with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
– Easy yet impressive – They look like something from a fancy pâtisserie, but they’re surprisingly simple to make at home.
– Golden and crisp edges – A quick chill before baking helps create the signature delicate shell shape with just the right amount of crispness.
– Versatile flavors – While the classic version is divine, you can easily enhance them with zested lemon, orange, or even a dash of almond extract for a unique twist.
– Perfect for any occasion – Whether you’re serving them with coffee, tea, or as an after-dinner treat, these buttery madeleines elevate any moment.
Ready to make a batch? Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into making these buttery madeleine cookies, let’s talk ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that light, fluffy texture and signature golden shell.

Essential Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour – The base of the cookies, providing structure while keeping them soft.
- Baking powder – A touch of leavening for that irresistible lightness.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – Adds the perfect level of sweetness and helps create a delicate crust.
- Eggs – Essential for a fluffy madeleine texture and that classic slight dome shape.
- Heavy cream – The secret to extra soft, melt-in-your-mouth madeleines with a rich, velvety crumb.
- Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled) – Adds richness and helps create a lightly crisp edge.
- Vanilla extract – For that warm, comforting flavor.
- Lemon or orange zest (optional) – A fresh citrus note enhances the delicate sweetness.
Optional Add-ins for a Twist:
- Almond extract – For a subtle nutty flavor.
- Cocoa powder – A chocolatey variation for a richer bite.
- Dusting of powdered sugar – A classic finishing touch!
Pro Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients before mixing ensures a lighter, smoother batter and prevents lumps. Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s move on to making these classic French madeleines!
How to Make Madeleine Cookies Using Cream
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to bake these buttery, golden madeleines. Follow these tips for the best texture and flavor!

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Whisk dry ingredients – In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to keep the batter light and airy.
- Beat the eggs and sugar – In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened. This step creates that signature delicate texture.
- Add flavorings – Stir in the vanilla extract and, if using, lemon or orange zest for a fragrant touch.
- Incorporate heavy cream – Gently mix in the heavy cream, which makes the madeleines extra soft and rich.
- Fold in melted butter – Slowly pour in the cooled melted butter, folding gently to maintain the batter’s lightness.
Step 2: Chill the Batter
This is the secret to achieving the classic hump on the madeleines! Cover the batter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour). The cold batter helps create the perfect contrast between a soft center and crisp edges.
Step 3: Prepare the Madeleine Mold
- Grease the pan – Lightly brush the madeleine mold with butter or spray it with non-stick baking spray.
- Dust with flour – Lightly coat the molds with flour and shake off the excess to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Bake the Madeleines
- Preheat the oven – Set it to 375°F (190°C) so the cookies bake evenly.
- Fill the molds – Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each mold about ¾ full—don’t overfill, as the batter will spread.
- Bake until golden – Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is puffed up.
- Cool and release – Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes, then gently tap the pan to release them onto a wire rack.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant touch.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture!
And just like that, your homemade French madeleines with cream are ready to enjoy! Up next—some expert tips and fun variations to make them even more delicious.
Pro Tips and Variations
Want to take your homemade madeleine cookies to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations to help you achieve the best results every time.
Pro Tips for Perfect Madeleines
✔ Chill the Batter for the Signature Hump
The secret to achieving that classic madeleine puff is chilling the batter for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. This helps the cookies rise properly and develop their iconic shell shape.
✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients
To ensure a smooth batter and even baking, bring your eggs, heavy cream, and butter to room temperature before mixing. Cold ingredients can create a dense texture.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter
Gently fold in the dry ingredients to keep the batter light and airy. Overmixing can result in tough, dense cookies.
✔ Grease and Flour Your Madeleine Pan
Even if you’re using a non-stick mold, lightly greasing and flouring the pan will ensure your golden madeleines release effortlessly after baking.
✔ Bake Until Lightly Golden
Madeleines bake quickly! Keep an eye on them after 9 minutes and remove them when the edges are lightly golden and the centers spring back when touched. Overbaking can make them dry.
✔ Serve Fresh for the Best Texture
Madeleines are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven when they have the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, buttery center.
Fun Variations to Try
✔ Chocolate-Dipped Madeleines – Once cooled, dip your madeleines in melted dark or white chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.
✔ Lemon or Orange Madeleines – Add 1 teaspoon of citrus zest for a bright, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with tea.
✔ Nutty Twist – Mix in ¼ teaspoon of almond or hazelnut extract for a warm, nutty depth of flavor.
✔ Coffee-Infused Madeleines – Replace 1 tablespoon of heavy cream with brewed espresso for a rich, aromatic touch.
✔ Honey or Maple Sweetened – Swap out 1 tablespoon of sugar for honey or maple syrup to add a subtle natural sweetness.
✔ Vanilla Bean Elegance – Use vanilla bean paste instead of extract for a more intense, aromatic vanilla flavor.
With these expert tips and creative variations, you can customize your buttery, melt-in-your-mouth madeleines to suit any occasion. Ready to serve them? Let’s talk about the best ways to enjoy these delicate French treats!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your golden, buttery madeleines are fresh out of the oven, it’s time to serve them in the most delightful ways! Whether you enjoy them as a simple snack or dress them up for a special occasion, these classic French cookies are incredibly versatile.
Best Ways to Serve Madeleines
✔ With Coffee or Tea – The delicate crumb and lightly crisp edges of madeleines pair beautifully with a hot cup of espresso, cappuccino, or earl grey tea. Dunking them is optional but highly recommended!
✔ Drizzled with Chocolate – Elevate your homemade madeleines by drizzling them with melted dark, milk, or white chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
✔ With Fresh Berries and Cream – Serve madeleines alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries with a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant dessert.
✔ Dipped in Honey or Caramel – A light dip in warm honey or homemade caramel sauce adds a deliciously sweet and sticky contrast to their delicate texture.
✔ With Ice Cream – For a decadent treat, enjoy madeleines with a scoop of vanilla bean or hazelnut ice cream—the warmth of the cookies against the cold ice cream is pure bliss!
✔ Paired with a Dessert Platter – Arrange your madeleines on a dessert board with macarons, truffles, and fruit for an eye-catching party spread.
Perfect Occasions to Enjoy Madeleines
✔ Afternoon Tea or Brunch – These French-style madeleine cookies are a charming addition to any brunch spread or tea party.
✔ Homemade Gifts – Wrap a few madeleines in a decorative box or bag for a thoughtful, homemade gift that’s sure to impress.
✔ Romantic Dessert – Surprise someone special with a plate of chocolate-dipped madeleines and a glass of dessert wine.
✔ Simple Everyday Treat – Enjoy them as a quick, satisfying snack when you need something lightly sweet without being too heavy.
No matter how you serve them, these creamy, melt-in-your-mouth madeleines are sure to bring a little extra joy to your day. Now, let’s wrap things up with a few final thoughts!
Conclusion
There you have it—your guide to making perfectly soft, buttery madeleine cookies using cream! These delicate French treats are easy to make yet feel wonderfully sophisticated, making them perfect for any occasion.
With their light, fluffy texture and crisp golden edges, these madeleines offer the ultimate balance of elegance and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee, as a delightful afternoon snack, or dressed up with chocolate and berries for a fancy dessert, they’re bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
The best part? Once you master this recipe, you can experiment with endless flavors and variations! From zesty citrus notes to rich chocolate drizzles, there’s always a new way to enjoy these timeless treats.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a batch of homemade madeleines today! You won’t regret it.

Madeline Cookies Recipe Using Cream
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour – The base of the cookies providing structure while keeping them soft.
- Baking powder – A touch of leavening for that irresistible lightness.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – Adds the perfect level of sweetness and helps create a delicate crust.
- Eggs – Essential for a fluffy madeleine texture and that classic slight dome shape.
- Heavy cream – The secret to extra soft melt-in-your-mouth madeleines with a rich, velvety crumb.
- Unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled – Adds richness and helps create a lightly crisp edge.
- Vanilla extract – For that warm comforting flavor.
- Lemon or orange zest optional – A fresh citrus note enhances the delicate sweetness.
Optional Add-ins for a Twist:
- Almond extract – For a subtle nutty flavor.
- Cocoa powder – A chocolatey variation for a richer bite.
- Dusting of powdered sugar – A classic finishing touch!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Whisk dry ingredients – In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt to keep the batter light and airy.
- Beat the eggs and sugar – In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened. This step creates that signature delicate texture.
- Add flavorings – Stir in the vanilla extract and, if using, lemon or orange zest for a fragrant touch.
- Incorporate heavy cream – Gently mix in the heavy cream, which makes the madeleines extra soft and rich.
- Fold in melted butter – Slowly pour in the cooled melted butter, folding gently to maintain the batter’s lightness.
Step 2: Chill the Batter
- This is the secret to achieving the classic hump on the madeleines! Cover the batter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour). The cold batter helps create the perfect contrast between a soft center and crisp edges.
Step 3: Prepare the Madeleine Mold
- Grease the pan – Lightly brush the madeleine mold with butter or spray it with non-stick baking spray.
- Dust with flour – Lightly coat the molds with flour and shake off the excess to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Bake the Madeleines
- Preheat the oven – Set it to 375°F (190°C) so the cookies bake evenly.
- Fill the molds – Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each mold about ¾ full—don’t overfill, as the batter will spread.
- Bake until golden – Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is puffed up.
- Cool and release – Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes, then gently tap the pan to release them onto a wire rack.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant touch.
- Drizzle with melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture!
Notes
- Calories: ~120 per cookie
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 2g
FAQs
Got questions about making the perfect Madeleine cookies using cream? Here are some common queries to help you master this classic French treat!
Why do I need to chill the madeleine batter before baking?
Chilling the batter is the secret to achieving the signature hump on madeleines. The cold batter hits the hot oven, creating a burst of steam that helps the cookies rise properly while keeping the center soft and fluffy.
Can I make madeleines without a special madeleine pan?
While the classic shell-shaped mold gives madeleines their iconic look, you can still bake them in a mini muffin tin if you don’t have one. The texture will be just as light and buttery, but they’ll have a different shape.
How do I store madeleine cookies to keep them fresh?
Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:
✔ Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
✔ For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Simply reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
Can I flavor madeleines with something other than vanilla?
Absolutely! While vanilla is traditional, you can enhance the flavor with:
✔ Lemon or orange zest for a bright citrus twist.
✔ Almond or hazelnut extract for a nutty depth.
✔ Cocoa powder for a chocolatey version.
Espresso or matcha powder for a unique, gourmet touch.
With these expert answers, you’ll be ready to bake flawless homemade madeleines with confidence. Enjoy your baking adventure!