Imagine a warm slice of Cherry Clafoutis placed before you, an authentic French dessert that blends the tartness of ripe cherries with a creamy custard batter. This simple yet delicious recipe involves just a few ingredients like fresh cherries, eggs, flour, and milk, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
As you bite into this dessert, the rich custard and sweet cherries create a delightful harmony of flavors. Whether you serve it warm straight out of the oven or let it cool for a firmer texture, Cherry Clafoutis is versatile and always satisfying. And the best part? You can easily adapt this recipe with other fruits like berries or plums, giving you endless possibilities for variation.
Understanding the basic steps and tips is all you need to prepare this charming treat. From selecting the juiciest cherries to mastering the perfect batter consistency, you’ll confidently create a Cherry Clafoutis that will impress at any gathering.
Preparation and Baking Instructions
Making a cherry clafoutis involves gathering key ingredients, creating a smooth batter, and baking just right. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious result.
Gathering Ingredients
First, gather all your ingredients. This includes:
Cherries (fresh, pitted)
Butter
Eggs
Milk
Sugar
Vanilla Extract
Almond Extract
All-Purpose Flour
Salt
Ensure you have a 9-inch round baking dish or a 10-inch cast-iron skillet. Preheat your oven to either 350°F or 375°F, depending on your preferred recipe. Preparing everything in advance streamlines the cooking process.
Creating the Batter
Start by pitting the cherries and setting them aside. Take your blender and combine the following ingredients:
Blend these ingredients on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy. This should take about one minute. The smoother the batter, the better the clafoutis will turn out.
Baking the Clafoutis
Generously butter the baking dish. Spread the pitted cherries evenly on the bottom. Pour the batter over the cherries and make sure the cherries are covered well.
Place the dish in the preheated oven.
Temperature
Time
350°F
35-45 mins
375°F
20+20 mins
Bake until the top is lightly browned and a tester comes out mostly clean from the center. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to set perfectly. The clafoutis is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving cherry clafoutis is a delight and storing it properly ensures it remains fresh for your next indulgence.
How to Serve Cherry Clafoutis
Serve cherry clafoutis warm or at room temperature. Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. You might also like to add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
You can cut it into wedges like a pie or serve in individual ramekins. The soft, custard-like texture pairs well with a hot beverage such as coffee or tea. Be sure to transfer it from the baking dish to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving to prevent sogginess.
Proper Storage Guidelines
Refrigerate any leftovers. After the clafoutis cools to room temperature, cover it securely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the refrigerator.
It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. If you’ve made individual servings in ramekins, cover each one separately. Avoid leaving the clafoutis at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent it from spoiling.
Tips for Reheating
To reheat cherry clafoutis, preheat your oven to 300°F. Place the clafoutis on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to avoid drying out.
Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If you’re in a rush, you can also reheat a single serving in the microwave. Place on a microwave-safe dish and heat for 20-30 seconds, though it may slightly alter the texture.
Reheating individual ramekins is convenient. For best results, avoid reheating the entire clafoutis multiple times and instead, reheat only the portion you plan to eat.
