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Vanilla Bean Honey Madeleines with a White Chocolate Shell

Vanilla Bean Honey Madeleines with a White Chocolate Shell—soft, buttery, and elegant with a hint of honey and a stunning burgundy finish.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Chill Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 32 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Madeleines
Servings: 14 Madeleines
Calories: 140kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • Hand Mixer or whisk
  • Spatula
  • Sifter
  • Madeleine Pan
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons
  • Piping bag (optional)
  • Wire rack
  • Heatproof bowl
  • Double boiler or microwave
  • Freezer

Ingredients

For the Madeleines:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled (113g)
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour 95g
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • cup granulated sugar 70g
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or seeds from 1 vanilla bean
  • 1 tbsp whole milk

For the White Chocolate Shell:

  • 1 10 oz bag Ghirardelli white chocolate melting wafers
  • 1-2 drops burgundy gel food coloring
  • 1 tsp coconut oil for smoother melting
  • tsp edible gold glitter

Instructions

Prepare the Madeleine Batter:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together with a hand mixer for about 3-4 minutes until pale and slightly thickened.
  • Add the honey and vanilla bean paste, mixing until combined.
  • Sift in the dry ingredients and fold gently with a spatula.
  • Drizzle in the melted butter and milk, folding just until incorporated.
  • Cover and refrigerate the batter for at least 1 hour (or overnight for better flavor).

Bake the Madeleines:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (190°C). Grease a madeleine pan with butter and lightly dust with flour.
  • Spoon or pipe about 1 tablespoon of batter into each shell mold, filling it about ¾ full.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers spring back when lightly pressed.
  • Immediately transfer the madeleines to a wire rack to cool.

Prepare the White Chocolate Shell:

  • Melt the white chocolate wafers in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
  • Stir in 1-2 drops of burgundy gel food coloring until evenly incorporated.
  • Add coconut oil for a more fluid consistency.

Coat the Madeleines in the Mold:

  • Lightly sprinkle ⅛ tsp edible gold glitter into the clean, dry madeleine molds.
  • Spoon the melted burgundy white chocolate into each shell mold, filling each about halfway.
  • Gently press each cooled madeleine into the chocolate, ensuring it spreads evenly around the edges.
  • Freeze the tray for 30 minutes to set the chocolate completely.

Unmold & Serve:

  • Remove the tray from the freezer and carefully turn it over onto the counter. Tap the back of the tray to release the madeleines with their perfect white chocolate shell.
  • Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serving & Storage:
Best enjoyed the same day for the freshest texture.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If refrigerated, let them come to room temperature before serving.
Optional Finishing Touches:
A light dusting of extra gold glitter or freeze-dried raspberry powder for added Valentine’s flair.
Serve with tea, espresso, or champagne for a romantic pairing.