Clafoutis is a classic French dessert that’s both rustic and elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. Traditionally made with cherries, this delicious treat combines a custard-like batter with the sweet tartness of fresh fruit. With its soft, creamy interior and slightly crispy edges, Clafoutis is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a delightful homemade dessert, this Clafoutis recipe will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients Needed

To make this Clafoutis recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup cherries, pitted
1 cup blueberries (or more cherries, if preferred)
4 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon superfine sugar, divided
1 1/2 cups flour
1/3 cup + 3 tablespoons butter, melted and divided
1 1/4 cups milk
1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Ingredient Notes and Substitutes

Cherries and Blueberries: While the traditional recipe uses cherries, you can mix in blueberries for a vibrant twist. Alternatively, use any seasonal fruit like raspberries, blackberries, or sliced plums.
Superfine Sugar: Superfine sugar dissolves more quickly than granulated sugar, making it ideal for this custard-like dessert. If you don’t have superfine sugar, regular granulated sugar will work.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in your dessert. If salted butter is all you have, reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Milk: Whole milk is recommended for a richer taste, but you can use 2% milk or even a non-dairy alternative like almond milk for a lighter version.

Kitchen Equipment Required

To prepare this Clafoutis, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

A large baking dish (approximately 9-inch round or equivalent)
Mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
A spatula
A cooling rack

How to Make Clafoutis

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a large baking dish with 3 tablespoons of melted butter, ensuring the bottom and sides are well-coated. Spread the pitted cherries and blueberries evenly across the dish and set it aside.
Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1/2 cup of superfine sugar until well-combined and slightly frothy. Add the flour gradually, whisking to prevent any lumps from forming. Once the flour is fully incorporated, add the remaining melted butter and milk, mixing until you have a smooth, thick batter.
Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the batter over the cherries and blueberries in the prepared baking dish. Make sure the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the Clafoutis is set and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Finish with Sugar: Remove the Clafoutis from the oven and immediately sprinkle the top with the remaining 1 tablespoon of superfine sugar and 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar. This step adds a lovely, sweet crunch to the top.
Cool and Serve: Allow the Clafoutis to cool slightly on a cooling rack before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Perfect Clafoutis

Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries? Fresh cherries will give you the best flavor and texture, but frozen cherries can be a great alternative when cherries are out of season. If using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess juice before adding them to the baking dish.
Achieving the Perfect Batter Texture: The batter should be smooth and thick, similar to pancake batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the Batter: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can cause the Clafoutis to become dense and rubbery rather than light and custardy.
Not Adjusting for Oven Differences: Every oven is slightly different, so keep an eye on your Clafoutis during the final 5-10 minutes of baking. It should be golden brown on top and slightly puffed up.

Presentation Ideas

How to Serve Clafoutis: Serve Clafoutis directly from the baking dish for a rustic, homey presentation. Alternatively, cut it into wedges and place them on individual plates for a more elegant look.
Garnishing Tips for a Beautiful Look: Dust the top with additional powdered sugar just before serving, or add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

Clafoutis is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments. Consider serving it with:

Fresh Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the custard-like texture of the Clafoutis.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm dessert.
Fresh Fruit: Garnish with fresh berries or a few mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftover Clafoutis: Allow the Clafoutis to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Best Methods for Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Use Different Fruits? Absolutely! While cherries are traditional, feel free to use other fruits like raspberries, blackberries, peaches, or plums.
How to Make Clafoutis Gluten-Free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum to maintain the proper texture.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, yet elegant Clafoutis recipe that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. This delightful dessert is easy to prepare, customizable with various fruits, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try today, and enjoy a taste of French cuisine in your own kitchen!

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