Description
This classic Cherry Clafoutis is a delightful French dessert featuring juicy cherries baked in a creamy, custard-like batter. Perfectly sweetened and lightly flavored with vanilla and almond extracts, this easy-to-make treat is ideal for any occasion and served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Butter and Fruit
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2½ cups (12 oz) cherries, stemmed and pitted
Batter
- 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, spooned into a measuring cup and leveled off
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract
For Serving (Optional)
- Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position an oven rack in the middle of the oven to ensure even baking.
- Prepare Skillet and Cherries: Melt the butter in a 10-inch cast-iron or nonstick ovenproof skillet over medium heat, swirling the pan to coat the sides evenly. Arrange the stemmed and pitted cherries in a single, even layer in the skillet. If you don’t have a suitable skillet, use a 2-quart baking dish and melt the butter in the oven.
- Make the Batter: In a blender, combine the eggs, milk, heavy cream, ½ cup of the granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Blend on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the batter evenly over the cherries in the skillet or baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Finish Baking with Sugar Topping: Remove the clafoutis from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the custard is just set, lightly golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The clafoutis may wobble slightly when done.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the clafoutis to cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature directly from the pan.
- Store Leftovers: Refrigerate any leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor; you can also substitute with frozen cherries if fresh are not available, but thaw and drain them well first.
- The clafoutis will jiggle slightly when done; this is normal as it continues to set while cooling.
- Vanilla and almond extracts add a lovely depth of flavor but can be adjusted or omitted based on preference.
- Using a cast-iron skillet ensures even heat distribution and a beautiful crust, but a nonstick ovenproof skillet or baking dish works as well.
- Dusting with confectioners’ sugar is optional but adds a pretty finishing touch and a hint of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
