Name: Easy Cherry Clafoutis: A Timeless French Dessert
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488478H16S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the dish); 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet cherries, pitted; 3 large eggs; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture); ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor); Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar, for dusting

Easy Cherry Clafoutis: A Timeless French Dessert

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Cherry Clafoutis is a perfect dessert for both beginners and seasoned bakers. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, and the result is a beautiful and deliciously satisfying treat. The cherries bake up tender and juicy, while the custard-like batter creates a rich, smooth texture. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar, this dessert is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the dish)
2 cups fresh or frozen sweet cherries, pitted
3 large eggs
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar, for dusting

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

Directions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter your baking dish and set it aside.

2. Arrange the Cherries

If using fresh cherries, pit them and pat them dry. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them well. Spread the cherries evenly in the prepared baking dish.

3. Blend the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and frothy. Add the flour, milk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth. For a quicker process, you can use a blender to mix everything together.

4. Pour and Bake

Pour the batter gently over the cherries. Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed, golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

5. Cool and Serve

Allow the clafoutis to cool for 10–15 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Variations

Use Other Fruit: While cherries are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits like berries, peaches, or even plums for a different twist.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Spiced Clafoutis: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover clafoutis in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or serve it at room temperature. You can also enjoy it cold!

FAQs

1. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! While cherries are traditional, feel free to use other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced peaches. Just make sure the fruit is cut into small pieces.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the clafoutis ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving for the best texture.

3. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk as a substitute for whole milk, but the texture might vary slightly.

4. Is Clafoutis supposed to be like a cake or custard?

Clafoutis has a custard-like texture, similar to a thick flan or pudding, but with a slightly firmer, cake-like crust that forms as it bakes.

5. How do I know when the clafoutis is done?

It’s done when it is puffed, golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The clafoutis will deflate slightly as it cools, so don’t worry if it falls a bit.

6. Can I make clafoutis without a blender?

Yes, you can whisk the ingredients by hand. Just be sure to mix the batter until smooth and well-combined.

7. How do I make the clafoutis gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure to check the other ingredients for any hidden gluten.

8. Can I freeze clafoutis?

Yes, you can freeze clafoutis for up to 2 months. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.

9. How do I get a smooth batter?

To avoid lumps, make sure you whisk the batter thoroughly, and if you’re using a hand whisk, sift the flour before adding it to the batter.

10. Can I serve this dessert with whipped cream or ice cream?

Absolutely! A dollop of freshly whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of fruit compote makes for a great topping.

Conclusion

Easy Cherry Clafoutis is a delightful and elegant dessert that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor. Its balance of rustic simplicity and refined sweetness makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or just a cozy dessert at home, this timeless French recipe is sure to be loved by all. Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade clafoutis with your family and friends!