Tender Rose Madeleines That Elevate Your Dessert Game

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

There s something enchanting about the delicate scent of rose wafting through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a quaint patisserie in France. After a long week of fast food and takeout, I craved something special something that felt both indulgent and light. That s when I decided to whip up a batch of Rose Madeleines, a delightful treat that marries soft, buttery cake with a whisper of floral elegance.

These little gems are not only surprisingly simple to make, but they also carry a unique twist on the classic French dessert. The subtle addition of rose water transforms each bite into a moment of pure bliss, perfect for savoring with your favorite cup of tea or sharing at gatherings. With their charming glaze and sprinkle of edible rose petals, these Madeleines are sure to impress yet they come together with ease, making them ideal for both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike. Let s dive into this recipe and bring a touch of gourmet magic into our homes!

Why are Rose Madeleines so special?

Delightful Aroma: The enchanting scent of rose water fills the kitchen, elevating your baking experience.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe in no time.
A Unique Twist: These Madeleines infuse a floral essence that puts a fresh spin on a traditional French treat.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at tea parties, brunches, or as a charming dessert everyone will adore them!
Impressive Presentation: With a lovely glaze and edible rose petals, they look as stunning as they taste.
Transform your dessert game with these elegant treats, and check out my other delightful recipes for more culinary inspiration!

Rose Madeleines Ingredients

Get ready to create these delightful treats with these essential ingredients!

For the Batter

• Unsalted Butter (7 tbsp / 100 gr) Adds richness and moisture; make sure it s melted and slightly cooled for the best texture.
• Eggs (2 large) Provides structure and help the madeleines rise; using room temperature eggs promotes better mixing.
• Castor Sugar (7 tbsp / 90 gr) Sweetens the batter and contributes to the soft texture, making these Rose Madeleines a delightful treat.
• Honey (1/2 tbsp / 10 gr optional) Adds extra sweetness and a touch of flavor; feel free to skip if you prefer less sweetness.
• Rose Water (1/2 tsp) Infuses a fragrant, floral flavor that sets these madeleines apart; adjust for taste intensity.
• Cake Flour (13 tbsp / 100 gr) Ensures a light and airy texture; can be swapped with all-purpose flour for a different bite.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp) Acts as a leavening agent to help the madeleines rise perfectly.

For the Glaze

• Confectioners Sugar (1/2 cup / 65 gr) Sweetens the glaze and gives it a smooth finish, topping off the flavorful Rose Madeleines beautifully.
• Additional Rose Water for Glaze (3-4 drops) Enhances the floral flavor in the glaze; more drops can intensify the taste.
• Water (3-4 tsp) Adjusts the glaze consistency; add little by little until you reach your desired thickness.
• Pink Food Coloring (optional) Adds a charming color to the glaze, making the presentation even more delightful.
• Edible Dried Rose Petals Perfect for decoration, they add a lovely visual appeal and an extra touch of floral essence.

With these ingredients, you re all set to create magical Rose Madeleines that will elevate any dessert experience! Enjoy the process and the delightful outcome!

How to Make Rose Madeleines

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, castor sugar, honey, and rose water until the sugar dissolves fully, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift in the cake flour and baking powder, then mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.

3. Add Butter: Pour in the melted butter and blend it in until fully incorporated, which will add richness to your madeleines.

4. Chill the Batter: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill the batter for at least 1 hour; overnight chilling yields the best results.

5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C), and prepare your madeleine pan by greasing and flouring it if it s not non-stick.

6. Fill Molds: Gently stir the chilled batter before piping or spooning it into the molds, filling them about 80-90% full to avoid overflow.

7. Bake: Place the filled pan in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 350 °F (180 °C). Bake for 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown.

8. Cool: Once baked, remove the madeleines from the pan immediately and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack to maintain their airy texture.

9. Prepare Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine sifted confectioners sugar with rose water and water, stirring until smooth and adjusted to a thick paste consistency.

10. Glaze Madeleines: Brush the warm madeleines with the glaze and sprinkle edible dried rose petals on top; let them set before serving.

Optional: For a lovely touch, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Rose Madeleines are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter and chill it for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring optimum flavor and texture. Simply whisk together the ingredients as instructed, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you re ready to bake, just spoon it into the prepared molds and follow the baking instructions. To maintain their light and airy quality, be sure to remove them from the pan immediately after baking and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. With this prep, your homemade Rose Madeleines will be just as delightful as if freshly made!

What to Serve with Rose Madeleines?

Transform your tea time or dessert table into a vibrant feast by pairing these delicate treats with complementary flavors and textures.

• Earl Grey Tea: The subtle floral notes of bergamot enhance the rose essence, creating a harmonious sipping experience.

• Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a colorful contrast, balancing the sweetness of the madeleines with their tartness.

• Light Fruit Compote: A drizzle of warm, spiced fruit compote adds richness, while its gentle sweetness rounds out the floral flavors perfectly.

• Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing dessert brings a zesty brightness that cleanses the palate and contrasts beautifully with the buttery madeleines.

• Champagne or Prosecco: Bubbles elevate any gathering, and a chilled glass pairs wonderfully to enhance the celebratory spirit of these sweet treats.

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creaminess, making each bite even more indulgent and enjoyable.

Elevate your experience by sipping and savoring with these delightful pairs, and watch how your Rose Madeleines shine!

Rose Madeleines Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Rose Madeleines, making them uniquely yours and bursting with delightful flavors!

• Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty kick that complements the floral notes beautifully.
• Orange Blossom Water: Swap out rose water for orange blossom water to introduce a beautifully fragrant citrus twist.
• Almond Extract: For added depth, mix in a drop of almond extract to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Try drizzling melted chocolate over the glaze for a decadent twist people won t resist.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped pistachios or almonds into the batter for a delightful crunch.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter as a substitute for regular butter for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option that maintains texture.
• Herbal Infusion: Infuse the batter with finely chopped fresh herbs, like mint or basil, for an aromatic surprise!

Let your imagination soar and create Rose Madeleines that reflect your unique taste!

Expert Tips for Rose Madeleines

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, resulting in a smoother batter for your Rose Madeleines.
• Chill for Perfection: Always chill the batter before baking; this helps achieve that classic madeleine hump and makes for a lighter texture.
• Avoid Overfilling: Fill the molds only 80-90% full; overfilling can lead to flat tops. Aim for a beautiful dome shape in your Rose Madeleines.
• Monitor Baking Time: Check the madeleines at the minimum baking time to avoid overbaking; they should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
• Grease Wisely: Even if using a non-stick pan, lightly greasing it can prevent any sticking and ensure easy release of your delicate treats.
• Customize Your Glaze: Adjust the amount of rose water in the glaze for more or less floral flavor, catering to your personal taste.

How to Store and Freeze Rose Madeleines

Room Temperature: Store your Rose Madeleines in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and moist.
Fridge: If you d like to extend their freshness, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but be mindful they may lose some softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the madeleines in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to a month.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat the frozen madeleines in a preheated oven at 350 °F (180 °C) for 5-7 minutes.

Rose Madeleines Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right rose water?
When selecting rose water, look for pure, natural products without added preservatives or artificial ingredients. The aroma should be fragrant yet not overpowering. I recommend using organic rose water if available, as it often provides a more authentic floral flavor that beautifully enhances your Rose Madeleines.

How should I store my Rose Madeleines?
To keep your Rose Madeleines fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you aim to keep them for a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, though be aware that they might lose some of their softness. Always let them cool completely before sealing them up!

Can I freeze Rose Madeleines? What s the best way?
Absolutely! To freeze your Rose Madeleines, begin by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they re fully frozen. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They ll be good for up to 3 months. To enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350 °F (180 °C) for about 5-7 minutes, and they ll taste freshly baked!

What should I do if my madeleines don t rise properly?
If your madeleines don t rise as expected, it could be due to a couple of factors. First, ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired baking powder can lack the necessary leavening power. Also, chilling the batter is crucial for achieving that delightful hump. If your oven temperature is too high upon baking, it might also cause the tops to spread rather than rise, so remember to reduce the heat right after placing them in.

Are there any allergy considerations for the ingredients?
Yes, if you re baking for someone with allergies, be aware that the primary ingredients include eggs and butter, which can be problematic for those with dairy or egg allergies. A good alternative for eggs could be an egg replacer, and there are dairy-free butters available that can substitute for unsalted butter in the recipe. Always check labels while baking to ensure no hidden allergens!

How can I achieve the perfect glaze for my Rose Madeleines?
To achieve a flawless glaze, start by sifting the confectioners sugar to eliminate lumps. Gradually add rose water and a few teaspoons of water until you reach a thick, smooth consistency. If it s too runny, add more sugar; if it s too thick, add a tiny bit of water. Brush it on the madeleines while they re still warm for better adherence, and for an extra touch, sprinkle edible rose petals on top before the glaze sets.