
Chocolate-Coated Madeleines
Madeleines are one of the simplest and most elegant French pastries. While they are delicious on their own, a thin coating of chocolate adds a beautiful contrast to their delicate buttery flavour.
These chocolate-dipped madeleines combine a light lemon-scented sponge with smooth dark chocolate, making them perfect for afternoon tea, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients
For the madeleines
- 2 large eggs
- 100g caster sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 100g plain flour
- 4g baking powder
- 100g unsalted butter, melted and cooled
For the chocolate coating
- 150g dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa)
- Optional: chopped pistachios, freeze-dried raspberries, or toasted almonds
Instructions
1. Prepare the batter
Whisk together the eggs, sugar, honey, and lemon zest until smooth.
Sift in the flour and baking powder, then gently fold to combine.
Add the melted butter and mix until smooth.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Bake the madeleines
Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan).
Lightly butter a madeleine mould and fill each cavity about three-quarters full.
Bake for 9–11 minutes until lightly golden.
Allow to cool completely.
3. Prepare the chocolate coating
Melt the dark chocolate over a bain-marie or in short intervals in the microwave.
If desired, spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into each madeleine mould cavity.
4. Coat the madeleines
Place the cooled madeleines back into the mould on top of the chocolate.
Gently press so the chocolate forms an even layer on the shell side.
Sprinkle with pistachios, almonds, or freeze-dried raspberries if using.
Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is set.
5. Serve
Carefully remove the madeleines from the mould and enjoy.
Notes
- Dark chocolate provides the best balance to the buttery sponge.
- White or milk chocolate can also be used.
- Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate-dipped madeleines pair beautifully with:
- Coffee
- Earl Grey tea
- Hot chocolate
The crisp snap of chocolate combined with the soft, buttery crumb makes these little cakes difficult to resist.
A simple French classic, finished with a touch of indulgence.

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