The Perfect Pair: Blueberry Muffins and Madeleines

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through your kitchen. Whether you’re after a quick breakfast option or a sweet indulgence for afternoon tea, these two recipes have you covered. These muffins are a healthier take on the classic—fluffy, bursting with juicy blueberries, and packed with wholesome goodness. Paired with delicate, buttery Madeleines, this duo is sure to make any occasion special.

Wholesome Blueberry Muffins

Start your day right with these fiber-rich muffins that also deliver a satisfying boost of protein from wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a nourishing snack, they come together with ease and taste like they’ve just been pulled fresh from the bakery.

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups almond flour (or whole wheat flour)

• ½ cup rolled oats (optional, for texture)

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

• 2 eggs (or flax eggs: 2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 5 tbsp water)

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)

• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey

• ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or olive oil)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, applesauce, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla, and almond milk until well combined.

4. Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix!).

5. Gently fold in the blueberries.

6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (about ¾ full).

7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Optional Add-ins:

• Sprinkle with chopped nuts for added crunch.

• Add a tablespoon of chia or flax seeds for extra fiber.

• Swap blueberries for raspberries or chopped strawberries.

These muffins are naturally sweet, packed with fiber, and have a great balance of healthy fats and protein.

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Delicate French Madeleines

These shell-shaped sponge cakes have a soft, buttery texture and a hint of vanilla. They’re perfect alongside coffee or tea and make a stylish treat for any gathering.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (use dairy-free as an alternative)

2 large eggs

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp salt

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

Zest of 1 lemon (feel free to use more)

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a madeleine pan.

In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually fold into the egg mixture.

Gently fold in the melted butter and lemon zest.

Cover the batter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (this helps achieve the signature hump).

Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine molds, filling each about 3/4 full.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers spring back when lightly pressed.

Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

To create a clam shell shape, I sandwiched two cookies together with icing and placed a large pearl sprinkle in the center.

Whether you're in the mood for a hearty, blueberry-filled muffin or a delicate, buttery madeleine, these recipes are sure to impress. Easy to make yet irresistibly special, they're perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat. Plus, with this pan, creating beautiful shell-shaped delights is a breeze. Happy baking!