It starts with that smell of warm butter and duck confit coming out of the oven, a round, salty aroma that’s almost comforting before the first bite. These savory madeleines have the softness of a childhood snack, but with a real winter appetizer character.

The crust turns golden on the edges, slightly crispy when you break it with your fingertips. Inside, the crumb remains tender, dotted with small pieces of shredded duck, melted cheese, and candied lemon. The Espelette pepper arrives at the end of the mouth, not to burn, but to awaken the fat of the confit. Warm, they smell of brown butter, roast poultry, and that tangy note that prevents everything from becoming heavy.