Classic French Cherry Clafoutis

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cherry clafoutis is incredibly simple to make yet so impressive when served. The combination of fresh cherries and creamy, egg-based custard creates a comforting and indulgent treat that is both light and rich. This dessert is versatile enough to be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for any occasion. It’s a great way to showcase fresh, in-season cherries, but it can also be made year-round with frozen cherries. With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, classic French cherry clafoutis is an easy dessert to whip up that never fails to delight.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted (or frozen cherries, thawed)

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• Pinch of salt

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)

• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round pie dish or a similar-sized baking dish with butter.

2. Prepare the cherries: If using fresh cherries, pit them and cut them in half. If using frozen cherries, thaw them and drain any excess liquid. Arrange the cherries evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.

3. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Add the flour and a pinch of salt, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Pour the batter: Pour the batter over the cherries in the prepared dish. The cherries will float to the top as the batter bakes, creating a beautiful presentation.

5. Bake the clafoutis: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The batter should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

6. Serve: Allow the clafoutis to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the baking time is 35-40 minutes, making the total time approximately 50-55 minutes.

Variations

• Different fruits: While classic cherry clafoutis is the most popular version, you can also use other fruits like apricots, peaches, or berries. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the type of fruit used.

• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.

• Chocolate Clafoutis: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the batter for a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic recipe.

• Nuts: For added texture, sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed pistachios on top of the clafoutis before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover clafoutis in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Clafoutis can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, depending on your preference.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the clafoutis a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving or enjoy it at room temperature.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dish to prevent the batter from becoming too watery.

Can I make this recipe with a different fruit?

Yes! While cherry is the classic choice, you can use other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, or peaches. Keep in mind that different fruits may require slight adjustments to the baking time.

Is clafoutis gluten-free?

Traditional clafoutis is made with all-purpose flour, but you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.

Can I use almond milk or other milk alternatives?

Yes, you can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other milk alternative, but this may slightly alter the texture of the clafoutis. Use a full-fat version for the closest texture to the traditional recipe.

How do I know when the clafoutis is done?

The clafoutis is done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The center should be set, but it may still jiggle slightly. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I serve clafoutis with ice cream or whipped cream?

Yes, clafoutis pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of crème fraîche for a decadent finish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.

How can I make the clafoutis more flavorful?

You can add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for added depth of flavor. A splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier can also complement the cherries beautifully.

Conclusion

Classic French cherry clafoutis is a simple yet elegant dessert that brings the flavors of fresh cherries and creamy custard together in a beautifully rustic dish. With its delicate texture, subtle sweetness, and French charm, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Whether served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or paired with a scoop of ice cream, cherry clafoutis is sure to become a beloved dessert in your recipe collection.

Classic French Cherry Clafoutis

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Classic French cherry clafoutis is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring fresh cherries in a custard-like batter, baked to a golden, slightly spongy texture.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted (or frozen cherries, thawed)
   
   3 large eggs
   
   1 cup whole milk
   
   1/2 cup heavy cream
   
   1/2 cup granulated sugar
   
   1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   
   1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
   
   1/2 cup all-purpose flour
   
   Pinch of salt
   
   1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)
   
   Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round pie dish or a similar-sized baking dish with butter.

1. Prepare the cherries: Pit and cut the cherries in half if using fresh cherries. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them. Arrange the cherries evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
2. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Add the flour and a pinch of salt, then whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the batter: Pour the batter over the cherries in the prepared dish. The cherries will rise to the top as the batter bakes, creating a beautiful presentation.
4. Bake the clafoutis: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The center should be set but slightly jiggly.
5. Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Different fruits: Use apricots, peaches, or berries for a variation on the classic cherry clafoutis.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
• Chocolate Clafoutis: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
• Nuts: Sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed pistachios on top for extra crunch.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 55mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 95mg