Origin and History
Clafoutis, a traditional French dessert, is a delightful treat that combines the simplicity of a custard with the burst of fresh cherries. This luscious dish hails from the Limousin region of France and has been captivating taste buds since the 19th century. The beauty of clafoutis lies in its rustic charm; it’s not just a dessert but an experience that transports you to sun-drenched French orchards, where ripe cherries hang heavy on the branches, waiting to be picked.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
The essence of clafoutis is its unique batter, akin to a pancake or crepe mixture, which transforms into a silky custard when baked. What makes it truly special is the use of fresh cherries, which infuse the dish with a sweet, tangy flavor that dances on your palate. The juiciness of the fruit contrasts elegantly with the soft, airy texture of the batter, creating a harmonious balance that is utterly irresistible.
Baked to Share
As you bake this treat, the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around and indulge in a slice of French artistry. This dessert is not just about taste; it’s about the joy of sharing something homemade, the warmth of family and friends, and a moment of pure bliss. Whether served warm from the oven or chilled, cherry clafoutis is a versatile delight that can be enjoyed any time of the year, making it a timeless staple in both French cuisine and your own home.
Easy Cherry Clafoutis – French Dessert with Flair
Description
This easy cherry clafoutis is a perfect blend of sweet and tart, enveloped in a luscious custard. It's a simple yet elegant dessert that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Easy Cherry Clafoutis
Instructions
Preparing the Cherries
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Wash and Pit the Cherries
Rinse the fresh cherries under cold water. Pit them using a cherry pitter or by slicing in half and removing the pits with a knife.
Feel free to substitute with frozen cherries, just make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Making the Batter
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Blend the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together a whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add in all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
For extra flavor, try almond extract or a splash of kirsch (cherry liqueur). -
Add the Butter
Melt the unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Stir it into the batter until well incorporated. This will give your clafoutis that lovely buttery richness.
Make sure the butter isn’t too hot; otherwise, it could cook the eggs.
Baking the Clafoutis
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Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9-inch round baking dish or a cast-iron skillet with butter. This will help prevent sticking and give a lovely golden crust.
You can also sprinkle a little sugar in the dish for added sweetness and texture. -
Layer the Cherries
Spread the pitted cherries evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour the batter over the cherries, ensuring they are well-covered. Don’t worry if they float to the top; that’s part of the charm!Adding a dash of cinnamon or almond slivers over the cherries can elevate the flavor. -
Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden brown. A toothpick should come out clean from the center.Keep an eye on it towards the end; ovens can be tricky!
Serving the Clafoutis
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Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavor explosion of sweet cherries and creamy custard.Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Note
Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor, if using frozen, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture. For a more decadent clafoutis, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the batter. A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors, don’t skip it. Experiment with different fruits like peaches, plums, or blueberries for a twist on the classic recipe. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Clafoutis can be made ahead of time, just reheat gently in the oven before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheat in the oven for best texture. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace some of the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.
