Pin it The Tour dÉléphant Goûter Gourmand is a charmingly whimsical snack tower that combines both sweet and savory delights, creating a stunning centerpiece for an indulgent afternoon tea or a cozy family gathering. This French fusion treat layers mini madeleines, chocolate brownies, and fresh strawberries alongside cheese gougères, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, all brought together with luscious whipped cream and herbed cream cheese. The playful stacking and harmonious flavors make each bite a unique and joyous experience.
Pin it This multi-layered tower invites creativity and can be customized with your favorite sweet or savory bites while maintaining its elegant and playful essence. The combination of textures—from the fluffy madeleines to the crisp cucumber slices—keeps every mouthful exciting.
Ingredients
- Sweet Layers
- 6 mini madeleines
- 6 small chocolate brownies
- 6 strawberries, hulled and halved
- 100 g whipped cream
- Savory Layers
- 6 mini cheese gougères
- 6 slices cucumber
- 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 60 g herbed cream cheese
- Garnishes
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
- 2 tbsp honey
- Fresh mint leaves, for decoration
Instructions
- 1.
- Prepare the sweet and savory components as needed (bake madeleines, brownies, and gougères if not using store-bought).
- 2.
- Assemble the first layer by placing a gougère on a serving platter. Top with a dollop of herbed cream cheese and a slice of cucumber.
- 3.
- Stack a brownie atop the savory base. Add a small swirl of whipped cream and a strawberry half.
- 4.
- Place a madeleine on the next layer, followed by a cherry tomato half and a touch of cream cheese.
- 5.
- Repeat the stacking process for each serving, arranging layers in alternating sweet and savory order to create a tower.
- 6.
- Drizzle lightly with honey, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
- 7.
- Serve immediately as an eye-catching snack tower.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure that the cream cheese and whipped cream are smoothly piped for an elegant appearance. If baking your own components, cool them completely before assembly to maintain structure. Use a sharp knife to neatly halve strawberries and cherry tomatoes for polished layers.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a nut-free version, simply omit the pistachios. You can also substitute gluten-free baked goods to accommodate dietary restrictions. Adding smoked salmon or cured ham offers a delicious savory variation for those who prefer a non-vegetarian option.
Serviervorschläge
Present the Tour dÉléphant Goûter Gourmand on a stylish serving platter to highlight its elegant layers. Pair with a lightly brewed tea or sparkling fruit-infused water to complement the flavor profiles and enhance your afternoon indulgence.
Pin it With its delightful interplay of flavors, textures, and colors, the Tour dÉléphant Goûter Gourmand invites both the eyes and palate into a joyous celebration of French fusion snack artistry. Whether for a special occasion or a charming everyday treat, it turns simple bites into a memorable tower of indulgence.
Recipe FAQs
- → What are the main flavor components in the tower?
It combines sweet elements like mini madeleines, brownies, and strawberries with savory layers of cheese gougères, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes, balanced by creamy and nutty accents.
- → Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, baking the madeleines, brownies, and gougères beforehand and assembling just before serving ensures fresh texture and flavor.
- → Are there any suggestions for dietary modifications?
For nut-free options, omit pistachios. Gluten-free baked substitutes can be used to suit dietary needs.
- → What tools facilitate assembling the snack tower?
A baking sheet for baking, a piping bag for neat application of creams, a sharp knife for slicing, and a serving platter for presentation are recommended.
- → How do the garnishes enhance the dish?
Honey adds a subtle sweetness, chopped pistachios provide crunch and nutty flavor, and fresh mint leaves contribute aromatic freshness and visual appeal.
- → Can the savory layers be varied?
Yes, smoked salmon or cured ham can be added to introduce extra savory depth and variety.