Épingler A stunning platter featuring an array of cured meats, artisan cheeses, fresh accompaniments, and elegant savory éclairs filled with herbed cream cheese. Perfect for entertaining and impressing guests.
I first created this platter for a holiday gathering, and the savory éclairs surprised everyone. Combining French-inspired elements into the board made it extra memorable.
Ingredients
- Savory éclairs: 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (120 g) cream cheese (softened), 2 tbsp fresh chives (finely chopped), 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped), 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Charcuterie Board Components: 100 g prosciutto, 100 g smoked ham, 100 g salami, 150 g brie cheese, 150 g aged cheddar, 150 g blue cheese, 1 cup (150 g) grapes, 1 cup (120 g) cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup (70 g) dried apricots, 1/2 cup (50 g) mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts), 1/2 cup (60 g) olives (green and black), 1/2 cup (80 g) cornichons or pickles, 1 French baguette (sliced), 1/2 cup (80 g) assorted crackers, Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare éclair dough:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet. In a saucepan, combine water, butter, salt; bring to a boil. Remove from heat, add flour, and stir until a dough forms.
- Cook dough & cool:
- Return dough to low heat for 2 minutes, stirring. Let cool for 5 minutes.
- Add eggs:
- Beat in eggs one at a time until dough is smooth and glossy.
- Pipe & bake:
- Transfer dough to a piping bag. Pipe 3-inch logs on baking sheet. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed. Cool completely.
- Make herbed cream cheese:
- Mix cream cheese, chives, parsley, black pepper, garlic powder until smooth. Spoon into piping bag.
- Fill éclairs:
- Slice éclairs horizontally (not all the way through) and pipe in herbed cream cheese.
- Assemble board:
- Arrange meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, olives, pickles, bread, crackers on large board or platter. Add filled savory éclairs. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Épingler The first time my family tried this charcuterie board, everyone was reaching for the savory éclairs. It instantly became our go-to party appetizer.
Recipe Variations
Swap in goat cheese or ricotta for the filling. Add roasted vegetables or extra fruit for variety.
Serving Suggestions
This board pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or light-bodied red. Serve on a large platter for best presentation.
Required Tools
Saucepan, mixing bowls, whisk or hand mixer, two piping bags, baking sheet, parchment paper, serrated knife, large serving board or platter.
Épingler This charcuterie board will be the highlight of your next gathering—each bite is a delight for your guests.
Questions fréquentes sur la recette
- → Which meats work best for the board?
Prosciutto, smoked ham, and salami offer a range of textures and flavors. Mix cured and smoked options for variety.
- → Can the savory éclairs be made ahead?
Yes, bake the éclairs and store airtight. Fill with herbed cream cheese just before serving for best texture.
- → What cheeses complement the platter?
Aged cheddar, creamy brie, and tangy blue cheese balance saltiness with rich, mellow, and sharp profiles.
- → How to garnish the board beautifully?
Scatter fresh herbs such as chives and parsley, and add grape clusters or colorful tomatoes for visual appeal.
- → Are there vegetarian variations for this spread?
Yes, omit meats and use extra cheeses, roasted vegetables, and nuts for a satisfying vegetarian arrangement.
- → How do I assemble the platter attractively?
Arrange meats and cheeses in separate clusters, fill gaps with fruits, pickles, nuts, and add the éclairs last for effect.