why make this recipe
Cherry Clafoutis is a classic French dessert that is both simple and delightful. It beautifully marries the sweetness of cherries with a light, custard-like batter. This dish makes for a perfect treat any time of the year, especially when cherries are in season. It’s not only easy to prepare but also looks impressive when served, making it a great choice for gatherings and special occasions.
how to make Cherry Clafoutis
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2½ cups (12 oz) cherries, stemmed and pitted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole or 2% milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and set an oven rack in the middle position.
- Melt the butter in a 10-in (25-cm) cast-iron or nonstick ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Swirl the butter to coat the sides of the pan and add the cherries in an even layer.
- In a blender, combine the eggs, milk, cream, ½ cup of sugar, flour, salt, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Blend until smooth, then pour the batter over the cherries.
- Bake for 20 minutes, sprinkle with the remaining sugar, and continue baking for another 25 to 30 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Cool for 30 minutes, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
how to serve Cherry Clafoutis
Cherry Clafoutis can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. You can also serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar on top to enhance its appearance.
how to store Cherry Clafoutis
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Cherry Clafoutis is best enjoyed within three days of baking. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
tips to make Cherry Clafoutis
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor. If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries can be substituted, but make sure they are thawed and drained.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a bit of almond essence or replace some of the milk with more cream.
- Make sure to blend the batter until smooth to ensure a light texture in the final dish.
variation
You can easily vary this recipe by using different fruits. Peaches, plums, or berries can be great alternatives to cherries. Each fruit will impart its unique flavor, allowing for a delicious twist on this classic dessert.
FAQs
Can I make Cherry Clafoutis ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and let it cool. Just reheat before serving for the best experience.
What type of cherries should I use?
Sweet cherries, such as Bing cherries, are best for clafoutis, but tart cherries can also work well if you prefer a tangy dessert.
Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole or 2% milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk, but this may slightly alter the final texture and flavor.