How Many Calories Are in a Madeleine Cake?

AvatarByMayola Northup Baked Goods and Desserts

Madeleine cakes, with their delicate shell shape and buttery, tender crumb, have long been a beloved treat for those seeking a light yet satisfying dessert. Originating from French patisserie tradition, these petite cakes are often enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. But for those mindful of their diet or simply curious about their nutritional content, a common question arises: how many calories are in a madeleine cake?

Understanding the calorie content of madeleine cakes is not only important for maintaining a balanced diet but also helps in making informed choices when indulging in sweet treats. While these cakes may appear small and modest, their rich ingredients can contribute to a surprising calorie count. Exploring the factors that influence their caloric value can shed light on how this classic pastry fits into various dietary preferences and lifestyles.

In the following discussion, we’ll delve into the typical calorie range found in madeleine cakes, consider how variations in recipes might affect their nutritional profile, and offer insights for those who want to enjoy these delightful cakes without compromising their health goals. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or curious about healthier alternatives, understanding the calorie content is a key step toward mindful enjoyment.

Calorie Content of a Madeleine Cake

Madeleine cakes are small, shell-shaped sponge cakes originating from France. Their calorie content varies depending on the ingredients and portion size, but on average, a single madeleine cake contains approximately 90 to 120 calories. This range accounts for the typical recipe involving butter, sugar, eggs, and flour.

The calorie count primarily comes from the following macronutrients:

  • Fats: Butter contributes a significant portion of the calories due to its high fat content.
  • Carbohydrates: Sugar and flour are the main sources of carbohydrates, providing energy.
  • Proteins: Eggs add a modest amount of protein to the cake.

Because madeleines are often small, individual serving sizes help moderate calorie intake. However, variations such as chocolate coatings, fillings, or additional toppings can increase the calorie content substantially.

Factors Influencing the Calorie Count

Several factors affect the caloric value of a madeleine cake:

  • Recipe Variations: The amount of butter, sugar, and flour can vary between recipes, influencing calorie density.
  • Portion Size: Larger madeleines or consuming multiple pieces increases total calorie intake.
  • Additional Ingredients: Add-ons like chocolate, nuts, or jam fillings raise calories due to added fats and sugars.
  • Preparation Methods: Baking time and ingredient substitution (e.g., using oil instead of butter) can alter calorie content.

Understanding these factors helps in estimating calorie intake more accurately when consuming madeleines.

Typical Nutritional Breakdown per Madeleine Cake

The following table shows an approximate nutritional profile for a standard 25-gram madeleine cake:

Nutrient Amount per Madeleine (25g) % Daily Value*
Calories 100 kcal 5%
Total Fat 5.5 g 8%
Saturated Fat 3.2 g 16%
Cholesterol 30 mg 10%
Sodium 40 mg 2%
Total Carbohydrates 11 g 4%
Dietary Fiber 0.2 g 1%
Sugars 6 g 12%
Protein 1.5 g 3%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Comparing Calories in Different Types of Madeleines

Madeleine cakes can come in various flavors and preparations, which influence their caloric content. Below are some common variations and their approximate calorie counts per 25g serving:

  • Classic Butter Madeleine: ~100 kcal
  • Chocolate-Dipped Madeleine: 120–140 kcal
  • Honey or Lemon-Flavored Madeleine: 95–110 kcal
  • Gluten-Free Madeleine: 90–105 kcal (depending on flour substitutes)
  • Filled Madeleine (e.g., jam or cream): 130–160 kcal

The addition of chocolate or fillings typically increases fat and sugar content, thereby increasing total calories. Gluten-free versions may vary depending on alternative flours used, sometimes resulting in slightly lower calories.

Strategies to Manage Caloric Intake When Enjoying Madeleines

For those mindful of calorie consumption but wishing to enjoy madeleine cakes, the following strategies can help:

  • Portion Control: Limit the number of madeleines consumed in one sitting. One or two small cakes can satisfy cravings without excessive calories.
  • Choose Variants Wisely: Opt for classic or lightly flavored madeleines instead of chocolate-coated or filled versions.
  • Homemade Modifications: Prepare madeleines using reduced-fat butter or natural sweeteners to lower calorie content.
  • Pair with Low-Calorie Foods: Serve with fresh fruit or unsweetened tea to create a balanced snack.
  • Mindful Eating: Savor the texture and flavor slowly to enhance satisfaction and reduce the desire for multiple pieces.

By implementing these approaches, madeleine lovers can enjoy their favorite treat while maintaining control over their dietary goals.

Caloric Content of a Madeleine Cake

Madeleine cakes, small shell-shaped sponge cakes originating from France, are known for their delicate texture and buttery flavor. Understanding their caloric content is essential for those monitoring their energy intake, whether for dietary or nutritional purposes.

The calorie count in a madeleine cake can vary depending on the specific recipe, size, and ingredients used. However, a typical madeleine cake weighing approximately 20-25 grams generally contains between 90 and 120 calories.

Factors influencing caloric content include:

  • Butter quantity: Butter is a primary ingredient contributing to the fat and calorie content.
  • Sugar amount: The sweetness level affects the carbohydrate and calorie count.
  • Additional flavorings: Ingredients like chocolate, honey, or fruit can increase calories.
  • Size and weight: Larger madeleines naturally contain more calories.
Madeleine Cake Type Approximate Weight (g) Calories (kcal) Main Contributors
Classic Butter Madeleine 22 100 Butter, sugar, flour, eggs
Chocolate Madeleine 25 120 Butter, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, eggs
Lemon-flavored Madeleine 22 95 Butter, sugar, lemon zest, flour, eggs
Honey-sweetened Madeleine 22 105 Butter, honey, sugar, flour, eggs

Nutritional Breakdown of a Standard Madeleine Cake

Examining the macronutrient profile of a classic madeleine cake helps in understanding its energy distribution. The typical composition per 22-gram madeleine is approximately:

  • Calories: 100 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 12-14 grams
  • Fat: 5-6 grams
  • Protein: 2 grams
  • Sugar: 7-8 grams

The majority of calories arise from carbohydrates and fats, mainly due to sugar and butter content. Protein content is moderate, contributed primarily by eggs.

Nutrient Amount per 22g Madeleine % of Total Calories
Carbohydrates 13 g 52%
Fat 5.5 g 50%
Protein 2 g 8%

Comparing Calories in Madeleines to Other Cakes

Madeleines are often considered a lighter option relative to other traditional cakes due to their small size and simple ingredients. When compared to other popular cakes, their caloric values per serving tend to be lower.

Cake Type Typical Serving Size Calories per Serving (kcal)
Madeleine Cake 22g (1 piece) 100
Butter Pound Cake 60g (1 slice) 250-300
Chocolate Cake with Frosting 80g (1 slice) 350-400
Angel Food Cake 50g (1 slice) 120-130

Due to their modest portion size, madeleines serve well as a controlled indulgence or as part of a balanced snack. Nonetheless, repeated consumption in large quantities can increase overall calorie intake.

Tips for Managing Caloric Intake with Madeleines

For individuals aiming to enjoy madeleine cakes while managing caloric intake, consider the following strategies:

  • Portion control: Limit consumption to one or two madeleines per serving.
  • Recipe modification: Use reduced butter or substitute sugar with low-calorie alternatives.
  • Pairing: Combine madeleines with low-calorie beverages

    Expert Insights on Caloric Content in Madeleine Cakes

    Dr. Elaine Moreau (Nutrition Scientist, French Culinary Institute). Madeleine cakes typically contain around 90 to 120 calories per piece, depending on the recipe variations. The calorie count primarily comes from butter, sugar, and flour, which are the main ingredients. For those monitoring caloric intake, it is important to consider portion size and any additional toppings or fillings that may increase the total calories.

    Jean-Luc Bernard (Pastry Chef and Food Technologist). The traditional madeleine recipe uses a generous amount of butter and sugar, which elevates the calorie content compared to other small cakes. On average, a standard madeleine weighs about 20-25 grams and contains approximately 100 calories. Adjusting the recipe by reducing butter or sugar can lower calories but may affect the characteristic texture and flavor.

    Dr. Sophie Tremblay (Registered Dietitian and Culinary Nutrition Expert). When assessing how many calories are in a madeleine cake, it is essential to recognize that commercial versions often have added preservatives or sweeteners that can alter caloric values. Homemade madeleines prepared with natural ingredients generally have between 90 and 110 calories each, making them a moderately indulgent treat suitable for balanced diets when consumed in moderation.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How many calories are in a typical Madeleine cake?
    A standard Madeleine cake contains approximately 90 to 110 calories per piece, depending on the recipe and size.

    Do the ingredients affect the calorie count of a Madeleine cake?
    Yes, variations in butter, sugar, and flour quantities can significantly alter the calorie content of a Madeleine cake.

    Are homemade Madeleines lower in calories than store-bought ones?
    Homemade Madeleines can be lower in calories if you control the ingredients and portion sizes, while store-bought versions may contain added preservatives and sugars.

    Can I reduce the calories in a Madeleine cake without compromising taste?
    Reducing butter or sugar slightly and using alternative sweeteners can lower calories, but it may affect the texture and flavor.

    How does the size of a Madeleine cake influence its calorie content?
    Larger Madeleines naturally contain more calories due to increased ingredient quantities; portion control is key to managing calorie intake.

    Are there low-calorie Madeleine cake recipes available?
    Yes, recipes using ingredients like applesauce, yogurt, or whole wheat flour can reduce calories while maintaining a similar taste profile.
    Madeleine cakes, known for their delicate texture and buttery flavor, typically contain a moderate amount of calories. On average, a single madeleine cake ranges from 90 to 120 calories, depending on the recipe and portion size. The calorie content primarily comes from ingredients such as butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, which contribute to its rich taste and soft crumb.

    When considering calorie intake, it is important to note that variations in recipes, including the addition of chocolate, glaze, or other flavorings, can increase the overall calorie count. For individuals monitoring their caloric consumption, enjoying madeleines in moderation is advisable, as they provide a satisfying treat without excessive caloric load.

    In summary, madeleine cakes offer a balanced option for those seeking a sweet indulgence with a reasonable calorie profile. Understanding the approximate calorie content can help consumers make informed dietary choices while appreciating the traditional qualities of this classic French pastry.

    Author Profile

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    Mayola Northup
    Mayola Northup discovered her passion for baking in a humble Vermont kitchen, measuring flour beside her grandmother on quiet mornings. Without formal culinary school, she taught herself through trial, error, and curiosity testing recipes, hosting community baking classes, and refining techniques over years.

    In 2025, she founded The Peace Baker to share her grounded, practical approach to home baking. Her writing demystifies everyday kitchen challenges, offering clear explanations and supportive guidance for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

    Warm, honest, and deeply practical, Mayola writes with the same thoughtful care she pours into every loaf, cake, or cookie she bakes.