Classic French Madeleines

Ingredients

• 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter, melted until browned
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest, finely grated
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 and 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup confectioners sugar, sifted, optional

Instructions

Cut the butter in tablespoons and place them in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, until the solids sink to the bottom of the pan and turn golden brown, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and pour the browned butter into a small bowl. Stir the vanilla and lemon zest into the butter, then set aside to cool.