Name: Cherry Clafoutis
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2.5 cups cherries, stemmed and pitted ((12 oz)); 3 large eggs; 1 cup whole or 2% milk; 0.25 cup heavy cream; 0.5 cup granulated sugar (divided); 0.5 cup all-purpose flour (spooned into a measuring cup and leveled-off); 0.25 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.125 teaspoon almond extract; Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting (optional))

Introduction to Cherry Clafoutis

What is Cherry Clafoutis and Why Should You Make It?

Cherry clafoutis is a delightful French dessert that balances the tartness of fresh cherries with a sweet, custard-like base. Originating from the Limousin region of France, this dish has recently gained popularity in home kitchens around the world. It's not only visually stunning but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

So why should you give cherry clafoutis a try? For starters, it harmoniously combines textures and flavors in every bite. The juicy cherries burst with sweetness, complementing the creamy batter that bakes to a lightly golden finish. It’s versatile, too! You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, making it suitable for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a fancy brunch.

Additionally, this dish allows you to showcase fresh, in-season cherries, which are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and vitamins. If you’re interested in exploring more about cherries and their benefits, check out Healthline’s guide on cherries. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply indulge in a comforting dessert, cherry clafoutis will undoubtedly become a cherished recipe in your repertoire.

Ingredients for Cherry Clafoutis

Essential ingredients

To create a delightful cherry clafoutis, you'll need some key ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Begin with:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter for that rich, buttery flavor.
2½ cups of cherries, stemmed and pitted—fresh or frozen, both work wonderfully!
3 large eggs to bind everything together.
1 cup of whole or 2% milk for a creamy texture.
¼ cup heavy cream to add richness.
½ cup plus 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for sweetness.
½ cup all-purpose flour, ensuring it's spooned and leveled for accuracy.
¼ teaspoon salt to balance flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that classic aroma.
⅛ teaspoon almond extract, which adds a unique twist.

Optional ingredients for variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider these optional additions:

A sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile.
Zest from a lemon or orange for a refreshing citrus note.
Substitute cherries for other fruits like blueberries or peaches for exciting spins on this classic dish.

Feel free to mix and match! This flexibility is what makes cherry clafoutis so appealing. Happy baking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Cherry Clafoutis

Making cherry clafoutis, a delightful French dessert that combines the flavors of fresh cherries and a custardy batter, is simpler than you might think. Let’s walk through the preparation step by step.

Preheat the oven and prepare the skillet

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring that your oven rack is positioned in the middle. This temperature is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown top while setting the custard just right. Meanwhile, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a 10-inch cast-iron or nonstick ovenproof skillet over medium heat. If you're using a baking dish, feel free to melt the butter in the oven—just remember to give the sides of the pan a good swirl to coat them. This not only adds flavor but also helps the clafoutis to release easily after baking.

Arrange the cherries

Next, grab 2½ cups (12 oz) of fresh cherries, stemmed and pitted. Spread them out in an even layer in the skillet. The placement of these cherries is essential; they’ll not only add flavor but also make your cherry clafoutis look visually appealing. You can use a mix of sweet and tart cherries for a delightful balance. If you don’t have fresh cherries, frozen or canned ones can work too—just make sure to drain them well.

Blend the batter components

Now it’s time to whip up the batter! In a blender, combine 3 large eggs, 1 cup of milk (either whole or 2%), ¼ cup of heavy cream, ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ⅛ teaspoon of almond extract. Blend everything on medium speed until smooth and well combined. The batter should have a silky texture that will envelop those cherries beautifully. This custard-like mixture is the heart of your cherry clafoutis.

Pour batter over cherries

Carefully pour the creamy batter over the arranged cherries in the skillet. Don’t worry if some cherries peek through; it adds to the rustic charm of this classic dessert! The batter will rise and envelop the cherries as it bakes, creating a wonderful custardy texture and flavor contrast.

Bake and finish

Pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. After this initial baking, sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly on top, which will caramelize and add a lovely sweetness. Return it to the oven for 25 to 30 minutes more, or until it’s set and golden brown. The center will still have a slight jiggle, but a toothpick inserted should come out clean. Let your cherry clafoutis cool for about 30 minutes, then consider dusting it with some confectioners’ sugar before serving. Enjoy this beautiful showstopper directly from the pan, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate your dessert experience!

For more dessert inspiration, check out resources like Joy of Baking or Serious Eats for a variety of delicious recipes!

Variations of Cherry Clafoutis

Cherry clafoutis is a delightful classic, but the fun doesn't stop there! Here are two exciting variations you’ll love.

Cherry and Almond Clafoutis

For a nutty twist, try adding a bit of almond flour or slivered almonds to your cherry clafoutis batter. The almond flavor complements the cherries beautifully, creating a deliciously rich and moist dessert. A sprinkle of toasted almonds on top before serving adds a lovely crunch!

Chocolate Chip Cherry Clafoutis

For all the chocolate lovers out there, this version is your dream come true. Simply fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into your cherry clafoutis batter. The melty chocolate pairs wonderfully with the sweet cherries, making each bite a delightful indulgence. Serve it warm for that gooey chocolate experience!

Feeling inspired? Check out additional clafoutis variations on BBC Good Food or explore creative fruity options on Serious Eats.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Clafoutis

Best cherries to use

For the best flavor, choose ripe, sweet cherries, such as Bing or Rainier. Their natural sweetness elevates the cherry clafoutis, creating a delightful contrast to the custardy base. Don’t shy away from frozen cherries; just ensure they’re thawed and drained well to prevent excess moisture.

Tips for achieving the perfect texture

To achieve that dreamy, custardy texture, blending the batter until smooth is crucial. Avoid overmixing; just a quick blend will do! Bake until slightly jiggly in the center, as the clafoutis will continue to set while cooling. Pro tip: Serve warm with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar for that extra touch! For a perfect pairing, consider a light, fruity tea or sparkling water to enhance your dessert experience.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Clafoutis

Ideal Pairings for Your Clafoutis

Enjoy your cherry clafoutis warm or at room temperature, and consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent touch. Fresh mint leaves offer a nice contrast to the sweetness, while a side of Greek yogurt can balance it out beautifully. For a savory twist, serve with turkey bacon or chicken ham—this unexpected combo adds depth to your dessert!

Presentation Tips

To truly showcase your cherry clafoutis, dust it lightly with confectioners’ sugar right before serving. Consider plating it in individual portions for a more elegant touch. A vibrant fruit compote or a drizzle of berry sauce can add flair to your presentation, while a sprig of mint provides a pop of color. Serve it straight from the skillet or a stylish ceramic dish for a rustic feel and enhance the dining experience.

For more serving inspiration, check out EatingWell's ideas for serving up sweet treats!

Time Breakdown for Cherry Clafoutis

Preparation time
Getting your ingredients together and prepping the clafoutis takes about 15 minutes. This is the perfect time to enjoy the fragrant sweetness of the cherries!

Cooking time
Baking your delightful cherry clafoutis will take approximately 45 to 50 minutes. It’s worth it for that golden-brown finish.

Total time
In just about an hour, you’ll be savoring a warm slice of cherry clafoutis. Isn’t that a sweet deal?

With just a little effort, you'll have a stunning dessert to impress your friends or family. For more cherry tips, check out Fresh Cherry Picking for the best varieties and harvesting ideas!

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Clafoutis

Calories per serving

In each delightful serving of cherry clafoutis, you'll find approximately 215 calories. This makes it a relatively light dessert option, perfect for indulging without the guilt.

Main nutritional components

Beyond calories, this dessert provides a balance of macronutrients:

Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g (of which 5g is saturated)
Sugar: 23g
Fiber: 1g

The combination of vibrant cherries and creamy batter not only enhances the flavor but also contributes antioxidants and essential vitamins. For more insight into the benefits of cherries, consider visiting NutritionData for comprehensive details on fruit nutrition.

Enjoying a slice of cherry clafoutis is a delicious way to treat yourself while appreciating thoughtful portion control and nutritional benefits! If you're looking to reduce sugar, try swapping in a sugar alternative. What other fruits do you think would work well in this dish?

Frequently Asked Questions about Cherry Clafoutis

Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries can be a great option when fresh ones aren't in season. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to your cherry clafoutis. This helps avoid excess moisture in your batter, resulting in that perfect texture.

How should I store leftover clafoutis?
If you happen to have any leftovers, don’t worry! Store your cherry clafoutis in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds. It’ll taste almost as fresh as when it came out of the oven!

What can I serve with clafoutis?
Cherry clafoutis is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a refreshing twist, consider pairing it with a simple fruit salad or a drizzle of honey.

For more ideas, check out this article on dessert pairings.

Conclusion on Cherry Clafoutis

Cherry clafoutis is a delightful and simple dessert that brings a taste of France right into your kitchen. Its creamy texture combined with the sweet-tart cherries makes it a fantastic treat for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Don't hesitate to experiment with different fruits or serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream!