Madeleines

Directions

1. 1
   Grease well and flour pans for 4 dozen madeleines.
2. 2
   If only half this many pans are available, cut the recipe in half and make it again.
3. 3
   This is because the butter, on standing, settles to the bottom and causes a heavy rough layer.
4. 4
   Place racks near the bottom of the oven and preheat the oven to 400F.
5. 5
   Beat the eggs with the salt, adding sugar gradually, until the mixture stands in very stiff peaks.
6. 6
   Add vanilla.
7. 7
   Sift about one quarter of the flour at a time over the egg mixture and fold it in until no flour shows.
8. 8
   Add the butter about a tablespoon at a time and fold it in as quickly as possible.
9. 9
   Fill the prepared pans about three quarters full, place in oven immediately and bake until brown, about 10 minutes.