Madeleines for M. Proust

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter 24 madeleine molds or 12 tartlet tins, each 2 inches in diameter.

In a bowl, combine the egg yolks and granulated sugar. Using a heavy-duty stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment or a handheld electric mixer, beat on high speed until pale lemon yellow and the mixture falls in thick ribbons when the beater is lifted, 6-8 minutes. Add the lemon zest and juice and the vanilla and mix briefly to combine.

In a small bowl, whisk the egg whites until lightly foamy. Using a rubber spatula or whisk, fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture until just partially blended. Do not mix them in completely at this point.

Sift the flour slowly onto the egg mixture, while folding it in with a rubber spatula. Before the last bit of flour is folded in, add the melted butter and then fold in the remaining flour until blended. Do not overmix or the madeleines will not have the correct tender crumb.

Fill the prepared madeleine molds or tartlet tins three-fourths full with the batter.

NOTE: If working in batches, be sure to keep the batter barely warm while holding it and to clean and regrease the pans between batches.

Bake until lightly golden brown on top, 15-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool briefly in the molds. Then, using a small spoon or icing spatula, if necessary, gently remove them one by one. Sift confectioners’ sugar lightly over the tops of the madeleines and serve.