Save Discover the charm of the Tour d'Éléphant Goûter Gourmand, a whimsical, multi-layered snack tower that harmoniously combines sweet and savory bites. This delightful French fusion creation is perfect for an indulgent afternoon tea or a festive family gathering, offering a playful yet elegant presentation that stimulates both the palate and the eye.
Save This Goûter Gourmand brings together mini madeleines, chocolate brownies, and fresh strawberries alongside savory cheese gougères, herbed cream cheese, and crisp vegetables. The alternating layers create an irresistible texture and flavor contrast, topped with a drizzle of honey, chopped pistachios, and fresh mint leaves for an eye-catching finish.
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 all baked components are fully cooled before assembling the tower to maintain stability. Using a piping bag for the cream cheese and whipped cream allows precise and neat layering. Arrange each tower on a sturdy serving platter to prevent toppling during serving.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a nut-free version, omit the pistachios from the garnish. Substitute gluten-free baked goods for all mini cakes and gougères to accommodate dietary needs. Incorporate smoked salmon or cured ham to add more savory depth for adult gatherings.
Serviervorschläge
Serve the Tour d'Éléphant Goûter Gourmand as a centerpiece for afternoon tea or as a playful appetizer for family occasions. Pair with a light, floral white wine or herbal tea to complement the delicate flavors.
Save Enjoy creating this delightful multi-layered snack tower that brings a playful touch to any gathering. The Tour d'Éléphant Goûter Gourmand invites you to indulge in a harmonious blend of classic French flavors, presented with style and whimsy.
Recipe FAQs
- → What flavors can I expect from the snack tower?
The tower balances sweet elements like madeleines and brownies with savory bites such as cheese gougères and herbed cream cheese, creating a harmonious flavor contrast.
- → Can I customize the layers for dietary needs?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free baked goods or omit pistachios for a nut-free version without compromising taste and texture.
- → How should I assemble the layers for best presentation?
Alternate savory and sweet layers starting with a gougère base, then stacking brownies and madeleines topped with fresh fruits and creamy spreads for a visually appealing tower.
- → What garnishes enhance the snack tower?
Drizzling honey, sprinkling chopped pistachios, and adding fresh mint leaves add texture, aroma, and a pop of color to the finished tower.
- → How long does it take to prepare this layered snack?
Preparation and assembly take around 50 minutes in total, including baking components if not using store-bought items.
- → Can I add other savory ingredients to the tower?
Additional savory options like smoked salmon or cured ham can be included for more variety and flavor complexity.