There’s something magical about a dessert that feels both elegant and effortless. The Classic French Cherry Clafoutis is just that—a delightful treat that brings a taste of France right into your kitchen. I remember the first time I tried clafoutis; it was at a quaint café, and the warm, custardy goodness left me craving more. This recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Classic French Cherry Clafoutis
This Classic French Cherry Clafoutis is a dessert that checks all the boxes. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those weeknight cravings or last-minute gatherings. The sweet, juicy cherries nestled in a creamy batter create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup for you. Trust me, this clafoutis will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!
Ingredients for Classic French Cherry Clafoutis
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Classic French Cherry Clafoutis. Here’s what you’ll need:
Fresh cherries: The star of the show! Use ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor. Pitting them is essential, so don’t skip this step.
Whole milk: This adds creaminess to the batter. You can substitute half with heavy cream for a richer taste.
Large eggs: They provide structure and help the clafoutis puff up beautifully as it bakes.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and balances the tartness of the cherries. Adjust to your taste!
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Almond extract: This is optional but gives a lovely nutty aroma that complements the cherries perfectly.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the batter, giving it that custard-like texture.
Unsalted butter: Melted and drizzled on top before baking, it adds richness and helps achieve a golden crust.
Powdered sugar: For dusting on top before serving, it adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
For those looking to experiment, consider using other fruits like blueberries or sliced peaches. The exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Classic French Cherry Clafoutis
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Classic French Cherry Clafoutis bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9-inch round baking dish or pie dish. Grease it generously with unsalted butter. This step is crucial; it prevents sticking and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust. A well-prepared dish sets the stage for a perfect clafoutis!
Step 2: Arrange the Cherries
Next, take your fresh, pitted cherries and slice them in half. Spread them evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re well-distributed; this way, every bite will be bursting with cherry goodness. The vibrant color of the cherries will make your clafoutis visually stunning, too. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, large eggs, and granulated sugar until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well-combined. Add in the vanilla and almond extracts, along with a pinch of salt. These flavors will elevate your clafoutis to new heights! Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be silky and pourable, ready to envelop those cherries in deliciousness.
Step 4: Combine and Pour
Once your batter is smooth, it’s time to pour it over the arranged cherries. Make sure the cherries are fully submerged; this helps them cook perfectly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the batter. This little touch adds richness and enhances the flavor. Now, your clafoutis is ready to go into the oven!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it puffed and golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your clafoutis is ready! Allow it to cool slightly before serving. The aroma will be irresistible!
Tips for Success
Use ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor; they make all the difference.
Don’t skip the pitting step; it’s essential for a pleasant eating experience.
Let the clafoutis cool slightly before serving; this enhances the texture.
Experiment with different fruits for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Equipment Needed
9-inch round baking dish: A pie dish works well too.
Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do for whisking.
Whisk: A fork can be a handy alternative.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy.
Toothpick: For checking doneness; a knife works too.
Variations on Classic French Cherry Clafoutis
Berry Medley: Swap out cherries for a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a colorful twist.
Peach Clafoutis: Use sliced peaches instead of cherries for a summery flavor that’s equally delightful.
Chocolate Chip: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still tastes amazing.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions for Classic French Cherry Clafoutis
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance the creamy custard.
Accompany with a light, fruity white wine like Riesling for a refreshing drink.
Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Classic French Cherry Clafoutis
Can I use frozen cherries for this Classic French Cherry Clafoutis?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well, but make sure to thaw and drain them first. This prevents excess moisture from making your clafoutis soggy.
How do I store leftover clafoutis?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back its delightful texture.
Can I make clafoutis ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and arrange the cherries in advance. Just pour the batter over the cherries and bake when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you’re not a fan of almond extract, feel free to use an extra splash of vanilla extract or even a hint of orange zest for a different flavor profile.
Is Classic French Cherry Clafoutis gluten-free?
Traditional clafoutis contains flour, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. It will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
Creating a Classic French Cherry Clafoutis is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The warm, custardy texture paired with the sweet burst of cherries brings a sense of comfort that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this dessert has a way of making any occasion feel special. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe means you can whip it up without stress. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let this delightful clafoutis become a cherished part of your culinary adventures!
Classic French Cherry Clafoutis is a delightful dessert featuring fresh cherries baked in a custard-like batter, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round baking dish or pie dish with butter.
Arrange the pitted cherries evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt until well combined.
Gradually add the flour to the mixture, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
Pour the batter over the cherries in the baking dish.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
Try using other fruits like blueberries or sliced peaches for a different twist on this classic dessert.
