I’m treating myself to a batch of these freshly-baked, gluten-free Madelines (most recipes call for flour and butter – this use doesn’t use either). And I think you should, too.
The cardamom and vanilla custard sauce is an optional extra, and of course you can make it dairy- and egg-free from this recipe using a pinch of ground cardamom instead. Either way it’s a luxurious addition to an already special treat. 
Find the recipe for the accompanying custard sauce here.
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How to Make Gluten-Free Lemon Madelines
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 madelines 1x
Description
This Madeline recipe is completely gluten-free and dairy-free. It is low sugar and can be made using granulated stevia (Natvia) as well. The cardamom and vanilla custard is an optional extra, and of course you can make it dairy- and egg-free from my Coconut Custard recipe using a pinch of ground cardamom instead.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs, separated
- 2 1/2 tbsp (37 ml) unrefined Demerara sugar or granulated stevia
- 1 tsp natural lemon essence
- Zest from 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) macadamia oil or melted coconut oil, plus extra for greasing
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) finely chopped macadamias
- 1 cup (240 ml) blanched almond meal
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) unrefined icing sugar or milled granulated stevia, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced / 350°F / gas mark 4).
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the lemon essence, lemon zest, oil, and chopped macadamias. Add the almond meal and baking powder and mix well — the mixture will be a little stiff.
- Fold in the beaten egg whites with a wooden spoon until just incorporated.
- Grease a 12-hole Madeleine tin with extra oil. Divide the mixture evenly between the 12 moulds, filling each just to sit flat with the surface.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the Madelines are slightly risen and turning golden.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack in the tin for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with icing sugar and serve with a pinch of ground cardamom if desired.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil in place of macadamia oil.
- These Madelines are naturally gluten-free thanks to the almond meal base.
- Best served the day they are made, dusted with icing sugar just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Baking, Dessert
- Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 madeline
- Calories: 110
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of flour in the gluten-free Madelines?
The recipe substitutes traditional flour with a gluten-free blend, which you can find at most grocery stores.
How can I make the custard sauce dairy-free?
You can make the custard sauce dairy-free by using a plant-based milk alternative and omitting any dairy ingredients.
Is cardamom necessary for the Madelines, or can I skip it?
Cardamom is used to enhance the flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer a different taste or if you want a simpler version.
