There’s something truly magical about Cannelés—these tiny, elegant French pastries that have captured my heart (and my taste buds!). With their rich, custard-like center and beautifully caramelized exterior, they remind me of lazy Sunday mornings spent in cozy bakeries in Bordeaux, sipping coffee and enjoying a treat. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors—just sweet enough, with a hint of vanilla and rum, making them feel like little pieces of heaven.
As luck would have it, Cannelés are surprisingly simple to make at home, and once you discover how to get that perfect exterior and soft interior, you’ll want to whip them up for every gathering. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because you want to impress yourself, these delightful treats are a guaranteed hit!
What’s in Cannelés?
Milk: The foundation of the batter, rich whole milk gives Cannelés their creamy texture. You could experiment with almond or coconut milk if you’re feeling adventurous, but I always stick to the classic.
Butter: Who can resist the magic of butter? It not only enriches the batter, contributing to that melt-in-your-mouth quality, but also helps create that beautiful golden crust.
Sugar: Cannelés aren’t overly sweet, so just the right amount of sugar enhances their flavors without overpowering them. I prefer using granulated sugar for an even texture.
Flour: A key ingredient that brings structure to these pastries. All-purpose flour works best, and you really don’t need anything fancier—trust me on this!
Eggs: The yolks add richness and color, while the whites help bind everything together. I like to use fresh organic eggs whenever possible because it makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Vanilla Bean or Extract: The essence of Cannelés! Using real vanilla beans gives a lovely depth of flavor, but pure vanilla extract works too if you’re in a rush.
Dark Rum: A splash of rum adds warmth and complexity. I’m partial to a good dark rum to really elevate the taste!
Is Cannelés Good for You?
Cannelés are definitely a treat rather than a health food, but let’s not be too hard on them! Here’s how they stack up health-wise:
Milk: Rich in calcium and vitamin D, milk provides some nutritious benefits, especially in moderation.
Butter: While full of flavor, butter is high in saturated fat, so enjoy these pastries in moderation.
Eggs: They’re a fantastic source of protein and essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet when consumed as part of a diverse range of foods.
Sugar: Cannelés contain sugar, which is not the enemy when it’s enjoyed occasionally. Balance is key, right?
So while they might not be the first thing you’d reach for when counting calories, indulging in a Cannelé now and then is completely fine!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the molds)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs and 2 egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean (scraped)
– 1/4 cup dark rum
Makes about 12-15 Cannelés, depending on the size of your molds.
How to Make Cannelés?
1. Start by putting the milk, butter, and vanilla (if using a bean, scrape it into the milk) in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the milk is warm, then remove from heat. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and sugar until well combined. In another bowl, beat the eggs and yolks together.
3. Pour the cooled milk mixture into the flour-sugar mixture, followed by the beaten eggs and the rum. Mix until it’s all combined, but don’t overmix! Cover the batter and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours (up to 72 hours is best for flavor).
4. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously grease your Canelé molds with butter.
5. When ready, give the batter a gentle stir and fill the molds about 3/4 full. Bake for 50-60 minutes until they’re dark golden brown. They should rise nicely!
6. After baking, let them cool in the molds for about 10 minutes, then gently remove them and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Some Sweet Suggestions for Cannelés!
– To elevate the flavor, play with different types of rums or even flavored extracts like almond or even a splash of orange zest.
– If you fancy a twist, try incorporating a bit of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter—a lovely warm flavor perfect for fall gatherings!
– Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. They also pair beautifully with coffee or tea.
So there you have it—my beloved Cannelés! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe. I assure you, your taste buds are in for a real treat. And remember, even if they don’t turn out picture-perfect, they will still taste delicious! Please share your experience and let me know how your Cannelés come out; there’s nothing that brings me more joy than hearing about your baking adventures!