Elevate your holiday celebrations with this stunning Madeleine Cookie Tower! Light, buttery madeleines are stacked to perfection, creating a dazzling centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate, this festive dessert will delight guests of all ages and add a magical touch to your Christmas table.

Ingredients for Madeleines (yields about 50 cookies):

• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2/3 cup (130 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1/8 tsp salt
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Special Equipment:

• Madeleine pans

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Ingredients for the Royal Icing used to assemble the tower:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 large egg white
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice

Optional Decorations:

• Powdered sugar
• Chocolate drizzle
• Edible glitter
• Star-shaped cookie for the topper

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Instructions for the Madeleines:

1. Prepare the Batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture.
   • Gently fold in the melted butter until smooth. Cover the batter and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to develop.
2. Bake the Madeleines:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour your madeleine pans or use a non-stick spray.
   • Spoon about 1 tablespoon of batter into each mold, filling it about 3/4 full.
   • Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the tops spring back when lightly pressed.
   • Let the madeleines cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Instructions for assembling the Madeleine Tower:

Prepare the Royal Icing:
In a medium bowl, whisk powdered sugar, egg white, and lemon juice until smooth and thick. Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.

Assemble the Cone Base:
Wrap a foam cone in parchment paper to ensure the cookies stay clean and food-safe.

Build the Tower:

• Start at the bottom of the cone. Pipe a small dot of icing on the back of a madeleine and press it gently against the cone.
• Repeat, overlapping the cookies slightly, to create a layered effect. Work your way up the cone, continuing until it is completely covered.

Secure the Topper:
Use icing to attach the star-shaped cookie or decoration to the top.

Decorate the Tower:
Once the icing has set and the tower is stable, dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or drizzle with melted chocolate. Add edible glitter for an extra festive touch.

Serve and Enjoy:
Place the finished tower on a cake stand as a stunning centerpiece. Let guests pull off cookies to enjoy this delightful treat!

Tips:

• Make Ahead: The madeleines can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
• Flavors: Experiment with orange zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder for different flavors.
• Get Creative: For a fun variation, dip the cookies in colored icing or chocolate before assembling.