If you’re craving a dessert that feels both cozy and elegant, this Cherry Clafoutis Recipe might just become your new favorite. This classic French baked custard is bursting with juicy fresh cherries nestled in a tender, lightly sweetened batter. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare but delivers a sophisticated balance of textures and flavors that make every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging in a quiet moment at home, this Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fruit and custard in perfect harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Clafoutis Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component has a purpose: the eggs and milk bring creamy richness, the cherries add bursts of fresh flavor, and the hints of vanilla and almond extract elevate the overall aroma and depth.
- Whole milk: Provides a creamy custard base, lending smooth texture and richness.
- Large eggs: The structure builders that give the clafoutis its light yet firm custard consistency.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering the natural cherry flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes that complement the fruit beautifully.
- Almond extract (optional): Offers a subtle nutty essence that pairs wonderfully with cherries.
- All-purpose flour: Gives the batter a slight body, helping it set just right.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Adds a touch of richness and keeps the clafoutis from sticking.
- Fresh cherries (pitted): The star ingredient, bursting with sweet, tart juice that makes this dessert unforgettable.
- Powdered sugar: For a delicate dusting that adds a pretty finishing touch and a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Make Cherry Clafoutis Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9-inch round baking dish or pie plate. This step ensures your clafoutis will slide out easily and the edges turn golden and slightly crispy, adding lovely texture contrast.
Step 2: Whisk the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Add in the flour and salt and continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Finally, stir in the melted butter. This batter should be silky and pourable, forming the luscious base for your cherries.
Step 3: Par-Bake the Batter
Pour a thin layer of the batter into the greased dish and bake for about 5 to 7 minutes. This sets the base slightly so the cherries don’t all sink to the bottom, keeping the texture nice and balanced—a charming feature of this Cherry Clafoutis Recipe.
Step 4: Add Cherries and Finish Baking
Remove the par-baked base from the oven and scatter the pitted fresh cherries evenly over it. Pour the remaining batter gently over the top, making sure the cherries are well covered. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 35 to 40 minutes. The clafoutis should puff up, become golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out clean when it’s done.
Step 5: Cool and Dust
Let your clafoutis cool for a bit to set further, then dust lightly with powdered sugar. This not only makes it look irresistible but adds an elegant touch of sweetness to each slice.
How to Serve Cherry Clafoutis Recipe
Garnishes
For an added touch of charm, dust with extra powdered sugar just before serving or top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh mint leaves can also brighten the presentation and add a subtle freshness to the dish’s rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is lovely on its own, but if you’re serving it at a gathering, a light salad or a simple cheese plate can complement the dessert nicely. Pairing it with a crisp white wine or a sparkling rosé can also elevate your experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the clafoutis in individual ramekins for an elegant touch, perfect for entertaining. You can also sprinkle toasted almonds on top after baking for a delightful crunch that adds contrast to the soft custard and juicy cherries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover clafoutis covered in the refrigerator for up to two days. It tastes fantastic chilled or at room temperature, making it easy to enjoy later without losing its charm.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for preserving the subtle custard texture, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your clafoutis slices gently in a warm oven set to 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, to keep the texture lovely and custardy rather than rubbery or tough.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but drain them well to reduce excess moisture so your clafoutis doesn’t become too watery. Fresh cherries are preferred for the best texture and flavor.
Is almond extract necessary in this recipe?
No, almond extract is optional but highly recommended. It adds a lovely nutty hint that enhances the cherry flavor beautifully without overpowering the dessert.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, and your Cherry Clafoutis Recipe will remain just as tasty and delightful.
What is the best way to pit cherries quickly?
Using a cherry pitter is the easiest and fastest method. If you don’t have one, gently squeezing the cherry on the stem end with your fingers or using a small knife can also work well.
Can I use other fruits in this clafoutis?
Definitely! While cherries are traditional and delicious, you can experiment with berries, plums, apricots, or even peaches for a delightful twist on this classic recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is truly a love letter to simple, fresh ingredients transformed into a warm, inviting dessert. Its effortless preparation and stunning results make it a perfect choice for both weeknight treats and special occasions. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and watch how it becomes a cherished classic on your table too.
Print
Cherry Clafoutis Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic French Clafoutis recipe features a light, custard-like batter baked with fresh cherries, offering a deliciously simple yet elegant dessert. It’s perfect for showcasing seasonal fruit with a subtly sweet, vanilla-infused flavor and a tender, golden finish.
Ingredients
Batter Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
Fruit
- 1 ½ cups fresh cherries (pitted)
For Serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9-inch round baking dish or pie plate to ensure the clafoutis doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), flour, salt, and melted butter. Whisk until the batter is completely smooth and well combined without lumps.
- Partially Bake the Batter: Pour a thin layer of the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until it is just set. This step helps create a sturdy base for the fruit.
- Add Cherries and Finish Baking: Remove the partially baked batter from the oven, evenly scatter the pitted cherries over it, then carefully pour the remaining batter on top of the cherries, covering them. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the clafoutis is puffed, golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the clafoutis cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Traditionally made with cherries, clafoutis can also be made using other fruits like berries, plums, or apricots.
- It is best enjoyed on the same day it’s made but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
