Madeleines au Reblochon et Bacon – Soft and Savory Delights
Introduction
Madeleines au Reblochon et Bacon are a delightful savory twist on the classic French madeleine. Combining the creamy richness of reblochon cheese with the smoky depth of bacon, these soft, golden bites are perfect for elevating aperitifs, brunch tables, or gourmet snacks. Their melt-in-the-mouth texture and bold flavors make them both comforting and refined.
Description
These savory madeleines are moist, tender, and packed with flavor. The reblochon melts beautifully into the batter, creating a creamy interior, while the bacon adds a slightly crisp, smoky contrast. Lightly peppered and baked to perfection, they offer a balanced blend of indulgence and elegance in every bite.
Ingredients Quantity (Makes 12 Madeleines)
150 g reblochon cheese, rind removed and diced
100 g unsalted butter
3 large eggs
130 g all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
100 g bacon lardons (or bacon strips cut into small pieces)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly butter and flour a madeleine mold.
Melt the butter gently and allow it to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until light and frothy.
Add the melted butter and mix well.
Sift in the flour and baking powder, stirring gently until smooth.
Fold in the diced reblochon and bacon lardons.
Season with black pepper (salt is usually unnecessary due to the cheese and bacon).
Spoon the batter into the molds, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and slightly domed.
Let cool for a few minutes before removing from the mold.
Origin and Cultural Significance
The madeleine originates from northeastern France and is traditionally sweet. This savory adaptation reflects modern French cuisine’s creativity, especially influenced by Alpine ingredients like reblochon—a cheese emblematic of the Savoie region. Pairing cheese and bacon showcases France’s love for rustic, hearty flavors reimagined in refined forms.
Optional Additions
A pinch of nutmeg for warmth
Fresh thyme or chives for herbal freshness
A small handful of grated Gruyère for extra depth
Finely chopped walnuts for texture
Tips for Success
Remove the rind from the reblochon for a smoother texture.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the madeleines light and tender.
Let the batter rest for 20–30 minutes before baking for better rise.
Serve warm for maximum flavor and softness.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per Madeleine)
Calories: ~190 kcal
Protein: ~6 g
Fat: ~14 g
Carbohydrates: ~10 g
Calcium: Moderate (from reblochon cheese)
(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands.)
Conclusion
Madeleines au Reblochon et Bacon are a perfect example of how traditional recipes can be reinvented with savory flair. They are easy to prepare yet impressive, making them ideal for entertaining or enjoying as a special homemade treat.
Recommendation
Serve these madeleines with a crisp green salad or alongside a glass of dry white wine such as Apremont or Chardonnay. They also pair beautifully with soups or as part of a cheese-focused aperitif platter.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While undeniably rich, these savory madeleines can be enjoyed mindfully as part of a balanced lifestyle. Using high-quality ingredients and savoring them in moderation allows you to indulge without compromise—celebrating both flavor and well-being.
If you’d like, I can also:
Adapt this recipe for mini madeleines
Create a healthier or vegetarian version
Rewrite it for a cookbook, blog, or menu description
