Madeleines

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the sugar, flour, baking powder and salt in a medium mixing bowl, stirring with a wooden spoon to blend.
2. 2
   Add the zest.
3. 3
   Stir in the eggs, mixing just to combine.
4. 4
   You do not want to incorporate too much air into the batter.
5. 5
   Finally, stir in the butter.
6. 6
   Cover the bowl with plastic film and refrigerate for 1 hour, or until well chilled.
7. 7
   The chilling is important, as it makes the batter easier to pipe and ensures a higher rise during baking.
8. 8
   At this point, the batter may be stored, covered and refrigerated, for up to 4 days.
9. 9
   Butter and flour the madeleine molds.
10. 10
    Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
11. 11
    Immediately transfer the batter to a pastry bag fitting with a #5 plain tip and pipe into the prepared molds.
12. 12
    Bake the madeleines for about 7 minutes (about 11 minutes for larger cakes), or until the cakes spring back in the center when lightly touched.