Pistachio Madeleines Recipe (With Chopped Pistachios)

I’m always looking to add something sweet to my day, and these Pistachio Madeleines are the perfect anytime treat! I love to enjoy these sweet little sponge cakes with a cup of tea in the evening. These pistachio madeleines have a subtly sweet flavor with a bit of warmth and nuttiness from the chopped pistachios.

The best part about these pistachio madeleines is that the recipe consists of ingredients you already have. Plus, no need for a stand mixer (or a hand mixer or food processor) for this recipe! I’ve been making these pistachio madeleines pretty often, and I love that they allow me to have a bit of cake without making an entire batch of cupcakes or an entire cake! These little sponge cakes are the perfect texture. They’re moist and buttery, making this pistachio Madeleine recipe a winner! 

For a bit of extra indulgence, you could also dip madeleines in chocolate! I like to top mine with powdered sugar. 

If you’re a fan of this pistachio madelines recipe, check out my Homemade Pistachio Granola Recipe with Dried Cherries or my No-Chill Brown Butter Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookies! And if you love pistachio and are looking for an easy breakfast, you have to make my Bakery-Style Pistachio Muffins Recipe with Pudding!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutty crunch – Enjoy the perfect blend of buttery softness and the delightful crunch of ground pistachios in every bite. Plus, it’s like a mix of textures that’ll have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds).
• Easy and elegant – This no-fuss recipe lets you channel your inner pastry chef, creating elegant Pistachio Madeleines that look and taste straight from a fancy restaurant.
• Transport yourself to France – Take a flavor trip with a modern twist on a classic French treat. Our Pistachio Madeleines bring together the sophistication of French baking and the globally-inspired charm of pistachios, creating a unique and unforgettable taste.
• Snack time – Whether you enjoy them with your afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after dinner, these Pistachio Madeleines are the snack-time upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

What Are Madeleines?

Madeleines have a shell shape and delicate crumb and are a delightful treat with a French origin cherished by pastry chefs worldwide. A Madeleine is a small, shell-shaped sponge cake that is typically sweet and buttery. Madelines originated in France and are often associated with French cuisine. Madeleines are made with ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, and butter and have a distinctive scalloped shape. They are often flavored with vanilla, lemon zest, or other extracts. Madeleines are commonly served as a dessert or snack and are known for their soft and moist texture. This French pastry is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a bit of cake! 

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter – Melted unsalted butter provides moisture, richness, and a delicate crumb, contributing to the Pistachio Madeleines’ tender texture and indulgent flavor.
• White sugar – White sugar blends seamlessly with ground pistachios, adding sweetness without overpowering the cakes.
• Vanilla extract – Vanilla extract enhances the Pistachio Madeleines’ flavor with depth and complexity, complementing the nuttiness for a well-rounded taste.
• Honey – Honey contributes natural sweetness and moisture, contributing to the cohesive binding of ingredients for an irresistible texture.
• Eggs – Eggs are the binding force, contributing to the soft and tender texture that defines these Pistachio Madeleines. Make sure the eggs are room temperature. 
• Baking powder – Baking powder provides a lift, resulting in a cloud-like lightness and the iconic shell shape of the madeleines.
• Salt – Salt enhances flavors, preventing overwhelming sweetness.
• All-purpose flour – All-purpose flour gives structure, holding together the medley of flavors in the Pistachio Madeleines.
• Pistachios – Chopped pistachios introduce a nutty crunch and burst of flavor, elevating the Pistachio Madeleines into a flavorful treat

Substitutions and Variations

• Almond extract – Experiment with almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor twist, adding depth to your Pistachio Madeleine
• Salted butter –  Use salted butter, adjusting the additional salt in the recipe accordingly.
• Chocolate coating – Dip the cooled madeleines in melted dark chocolate for a chocolate shell, adding a sweet layer. You could also melt white chocolate! 
• Citrus zest – Incorporate finely grated orange or lemon zest into the batter for a citrusy twist that complements the nuttiness of the pistachios. You could also add some lemon juice!
• Cardamom spice – Add a pinch of ground cardamom to the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs well with pistachios.
• Rose water infusion – Infuse the batter with a touch of rose water for a subtle floral note, and a hint of botanical flavour. 
• Brown butter – You could add more depth to these pistachio madeleines by browning your butter! 

Step by Step Instructions

Tips and Notes for Making Pistachio Madeleines

• Chill the batter – Chilling the batter is crucial for achieving the classic madeleine hump. It also helps the flavors to meld and improves the texture.
• Quality ingredients – Use high-quality pistachios and vanilla extract for the best flavor. Fresh, quality ingredients can make a significant difference.
• Don’t overmix – When combining the wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing. Stir until just combined to maintain the light and delicate texture of the madeleines. Do not use a stand mixer – use a hand whisk instead! 
• Even pistachio distribution – I always make sure that the chopped pistachios are evenly distributed in the batter. This ensures every madeleine has a delicious burst of pistachio flavor.
• Baking time – Keep a close eye on the madeleines as they bake. The madeleines are done when the edges are golden brown, and the centers spring back when lightly touched. Overbaking can result in dry madeleines.You want golden, crisp edges. 
• Serve fresh – Madeleines are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them on the day of baking for the optimal taste and texture.

Recipe FAQs

Serving Suggestions

• Wine pairing – Consider a late-harvest Riesling for a sweet and fruity balance. Riesling’s floral notes complement the pistachios’ nuttiness without overpowering the delicate madeleine flavors. 
• Lemon glaze – Drizzle the Pistachio Madeleines with a light lemon glaze for a citrusy kick that complements the nutty flavor.
• Dusted with powdered sugar – Keep it simple by dusting the madeleines with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Accompanied by fresh berries – Serve the madeleines with fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, for a burst of freshness.
• Chocolate dip – Dip the tips of the madeleines in melted chocolate for a decadent touch. Dark chocolate pairs exceptionally well with pistachios.
• With coffee – Pair Pistachio Madeleines with a cup of rich espresso or your favorite coffee for a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
• With tea – Create a tea-time spread with an assortment of teas and serve the madeleines alongside for a sophisticated and cozy snack!

Storage Instructions

• Store your pistachio madeleines in an airtight container or resealable bag. Keep them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Consume them within two days for the best taste and texture.
• For extended storage, you can keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days or in the freezer for 3 months. In both scenarios, ensure the madeleines have completely cooled before putting them in an airtight container. 

Please leave a review below if you make this recipe! And, don’t forget to follow @seasonedandsalted on Instagram!