Introduction: Ready for a Rustic, Fruity Delight?
Craving a dessert that’s elegant yet effortless, with a burst of juicy cherries? This Cherry Clafoutis is your perfect treat! This classic French dessert combines a creamy, custard-like batter with sweet or tart cherries, baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for summer gatherings, cozy dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort, it’s a versatile dessert that’s both comforting and refined. Inspired by your love for fruity, wholesome desserts like Cherry Pie, Blueberry Cobbler, and Lemon Blueberry Bread, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and sure to delight. Ready to whip up a French-inspired masterpiece? Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe!
Overview: Why Cherry Clafoutis is a Must-Try
Cherry Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert that’s like a cross between a custard and a pancake, studded with juicy cherries. The lemon zest and almond extract add a bright, nutty depth, while the toasted almonds and powdered sugar give it a perfect finish. What makes it special? It’s quick to prep, uses simple ingredients, and looks impressive without requiring advanced baking skills.
- Time Requirement: About 1 hour total (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes resting, 30–35 minutes baking, plus 10 minutes cooling).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Ideal for beginners or those short on time.
- Why It’s Special: It’s a lighter dessert with fresh fruit, quick to make, and adaptable for dietary needs or flavor variations.
This clafoutis is a creamy, fruity treat that’s sure to become a favorite. Let’s get baking!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Cherry Clafoutis. Each ingredient adds to the creamy, juicy, and flavorful magic.
- Eggs (3): Provide structure and a custard-like texture.
- Whole Milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess to the batter.
- Whole Milk Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Brings richness and a slight tang.
- Granulated Sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the batter lightly.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Forms the base for the batter.
- Sea Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a warm, sweet note.
- Almond Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the cherry flavor with a nutty hint.
- Melted Butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and a silky texture.
- Lemon Zest (from 1/2 lemon): Brings a bright, citrusy lift.
- Pitted Sweet or Tart Cherries (1 cup): The star ingredient, adding juicy bursts of flavor.
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Creates a sweet, elegant finish.
- Toasted Sliced Raw Almonds (for serving): Add a crunchy, nutty topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cherries: Use fresh or frozen pitted cherries (thawed and drained) or swap with berries like blueberries or raspberries.
- Flour: Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
- Sugar: Replace with cane sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup (reduce to 1/4 cup for syrup).
- Greek Yogurt: Use plain yogurt, sour cream, or dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- Butter: Swap with coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free.
- Almond Extract: Use more vanilla extract or a splash of amaretto for a similar flavor.
- Add-Ins: Mix in 1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Cherry Clafoutis is simple and fun! Follow these steps for a perfect dessert every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup whole milk Greek yogurt, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract until just mixed.
- Add 1/4 cup melted butter and zest of 1/2 lemon, stirring until thoroughly combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Tip: Resting the batter helps the flour hydrate, creating a smoother texture.
Step 2: Prep the Oven and Ramekins
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease eight 6-ounce ramekins with butter or cooking spray.
Tip: Place ramekins on a baking sheet for easier handling and to catch any drips.
Step 3: Assemble the Clafoutis
- Divide the batter evenly among the greased ramekins, filling each about halfway.
- Spread a layer of 1 cup pitted sweet or tart cherries on top of the batter in each ramekin.
Tip: If using frozen cherries, pat them dry to prevent excess liquid in the batter.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the clafoutis is lightly golden brown and barely set in the middle (it should jiggle slightly).
- Let cool for 10 minutes to set further.
Tip: Check at 30 minutes—if browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 5: Serve
- Dust each clafoutis with powdered sugar and sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tip: Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring until golden, for the best flavor.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Cherry Clafoutis
Assembling this Cherry Clafoutis is all about creating a creamy, fruity dessert with a rustic charm. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Mix Batter Gently: Whisk just until combined to avoid a tough texture.
- Divide Evenly: Pour batter evenly into ramekins for consistent baking.
- Add Cherries Artfully: Scatter cherries evenly for a balanced fruit-to-custard ratio.
- Bake to Just Set: Aim for a slightly jiggly center for that classic clafoutis texture.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve in the ramekins for a cozy, individual presentation.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a snowy, elegant look.
- Garnish with extra cherries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This clafoutis is best fresh but can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it tasty:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container or covered ramekins in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze baked clafoutis for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating:
- Microwave individual portions for 15–20 seconds for a warm treat.
- Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes to refresh.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare the batter up to a day ahead and refrigerate; whisk before using.
- Pit cherries and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Assemble ramekins up to 4 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Tip: Add fresh cherries or a new dusting of powdered sugar when serving leftovers to revive the flavor.
Recipe Variations
This Cherry Clafoutis is versatile, drawing on your love for fruity desserts like Cherry Pie and Lemon Blueberry Bread. Here are some fun ideas:
- Berry Clafoutis: Swap cherries for blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry blend.
- Peach Clafoutis: Use sliced peaches and a pinch of cinnamon for a summery twist.
- Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis: Fold in 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk and dairy-free yogurt, and swap butter for coconut oil.
Tip: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Conclusion: A Creamy, Fruity Treat to Love
Cherry Clafoutis is the perfect way to enjoy juicy cherries in a creamy, custard-like dessert that’s both rustic and elegant. With its tender texture, bright lemony notes, and crunchy almond topping, it’s a treat that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Perfect for dinner parties, brunches, or a cozy night in, this clafoutis is sure to impress. Play with the variations, share with loved ones, and savor every fruity, creamy bite. What’s your favorite way to enjoy this clafoutis? Share your ideas in the comments and let us know how it turned out!
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Cherry Clafoutis
Description
Craving a dessert that’s elegant yet effortless, with a burst of juicy cherries? This Cherry Clafoutis is your perfect treat! This classic French dessert combines a creamy, custard-like batter with sweet or tart cherries, baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Cherry Clafoutis. Each ingredient adds to the creamy, juicy, and flavorful magic.
- Eggs (3): Provide structure and a custard-like texture.
- Whole Milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess to the batter.
- Whole Milk Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Brings richness and a slight tang.
- Granulated Sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the batter lightly.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup): Forms the base for the batter.
- Sea Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a warm, sweet note.
- Almond Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the cherry flavor with a nutty hint.
- Melted Butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and a silky texture.
- Lemon Zest (from 1/2 lemon): Brings a bright, citrusy lift.
- Pitted Sweet or Tart Cherries (1 cup): The star ingredient, adding juicy bursts of flavor.
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Creates a sweet, elegant finish.
- Toasted Sliced Raw Almonds (for serving): Add a crunchy, nutty topping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Cherries: Use fresh or frozen pitted cherries (thawed and drained) or swap with berries like blueberries or raspberries.
- Flour: Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
- Sugar: Replace with cane sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup (reduce to 1/4 cup for syrup).
- Greek Yogurt: Use plain yogurt, sour cream, or dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- Butter: Swap with coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free.
- Almond Extract: Use more vanilla extract or a splash of amaretto for a similar flavor.
- Add-Ins: Mix in 1/4 cup chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup whole milk Greek yogurt, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract until just mixed.
- Add 1/4 cup melted butter and zest of 1/2 lemon, stirring until thoroughly combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Tip: Resting the batter helps the flour hydrate, creating a smoother texture.
Step 2: Prep the Oven and Ramekins
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease eight 6-ounce ramekins with butter or cooking spray.
Tip: Place ramekins on a baking sheet for easier handling and to catch any drips.
Step 3: Assemble the Clafoutis
- Divide the batter evenly among the greased ramekins, filling each about halfway.
- Spread a layer of 1 cup pitted sweet or tart cherries on top of the batter in each ramekin.
Tip: If using frozen cherries, pat them dry to prevent excess liquid in the batter.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the clafoutis is lightly golden brown and barely set in the middle (it should jiggle slightly).
- Let cool for 10 minutes to set further.
Tip: Check at 30 minutes—if browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 5: Serve
- Dust each clafoutis with powdered sugar and sprinkle with toasted sliced almonds.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tip: Toast almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring until golden, for the best flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes! Thaw and pat dry frozen cherries to avoid excess liquid. Use the same amount.
2. Is this dessert healthy?
It’s lighter with Greek yogurt for protein and minimal sugar. Use a sugar substitute or less sugar for a healthier option.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use almond milk, dairy-free yogurt, and coconut oil instead of butter.
4. Why is my clafoutis rubbery?
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep it tender.
- Bake until just set (slightly jiggly) to avoid a tough texture.
- Use whole milk and yogurt for the right consistency.
5. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Prep the batter or pit cherries a day ahead, or assemble ramekins up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate.
6. How long does it last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 1 month.
7. Can I freeze this clafoutis?
Yes! Freeze baked clafoutis, wrapped tightly, for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
8. What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve warm or at room temperature with powdered sugar, toasted almonds, or a scoop of ice cream for a special touch.
This Cherry Clafoutis is quick, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!