Spiced Madeline Cookies

Gourmet, October 2004
By Jane Daniels Lear
Photograph by Romulo Yanes

MAKES 12 MADELEINES
Active time: 35 min Start to finish: 1hr

3/4 stick (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted, plus 1 tablespoon (melted) for greasing molds
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
Confectioners sugar for dusting

Special equipment: a madeleine pan with 12 (3- by 2-inch) molds

• Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 400°F. Brush molds with some melted butter, then chill until set, about 5 minutes. Brush molds again with some melted butter and chill pan.
• Sift together flour, baking powder, spices, and a pinch of salt.
• Whisk together sugars and eggs until combined well. Add flour mixture and whisk until just combined, then stir in remaining butter (6 tablespoons) until just incorporated.
• Spoon batter into molds, filling them about two thirds full. Bake 5 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F and bake until springy to the touch and edges are lightly browned, 4 to 6 minutes. Turn out onto a rack and cool 15 minutes. Just before serving, dust with confectioners sugar.

Cooks’ note:

• Madeleines can be made up to 6 hours ahead and are best eaten the same day.