A Delightful Treat for Cherry Lovers
There’s something utterly magical about a bowl of fresh cherry clafoutis. This charming French dessert showcases juicy cherries nestled in a delicate, custard-like batter that’s both creamy and flavorful. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also has a light texture that melts beautifully in your mouth, making it perfect for any occasion. Did you know that clafoutis is traditionally made with black cherries and originates from the Limousin region of France? It’s so simple to prepare that you’ll find it quickly becoming a family favorite and a go-to for entertaining guests. Plus, if you love the comforting warmth of a homemade tart, you might also enjoy trying my luscious strawberry shortcake recipe found elsewhere on the blog! So grab those cherries, and let’s whip up this delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!
What is Fresh Cherry Clafoutis?
What’s in a name? Well, when it comes to fresh cherry clafoutis, it’s a delightful twist on a classic! Pronounced kla-footi, this dish sounds fancy enough to impress anyone but is as easy as pie to make. So what gives? Clafoutis comes from the Occitan word “clafir,” which means “to fill.” Think of it as a custard that’s been on an adventurous vacation with juicy cherries! The saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” is certainly true with this dessert! So why not charm your family and friends with this delicious recipe? Trust me; just one slice of this decadent treat will leave them begging for more!
Why You’ll Love This Fresh Cherry Clafoutis
Prepare to fall in love with fresh cherry clafoutis for three delightful reasons. First, the highlight of this dish is undoubtedly the succulent cherries that burst with flavor when baked into a light, airy batter. Second, making clafoutis at home is immensely cost-effective compared to store-bought desserts, allowing you to showcase your culinary skills without breaking the bank. Lastly, the versatility of toppings enhances this dessert to new heights! Whether you sprinkle powdered sugar, add a dollop of whipped cream, or even drizzle with chocolate sauce, the possibilities are endless! If you’re a fan of baked delights, you might also want to explore my luscious pear tart recipe. Come on, grab your apron and let’s create this gratifying dish at home!
How to Make Fresh Cherry Clafoutis
Quick Overview
Crafting a fresh cherry clafoutis is a breeze! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that not only tastes amazing but looks beautiful, making it perfect for any occasion. All it takes is about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by a leisurely bake in the oven, giving it a lightly golden, slightly puffed appearance that begs to be enjoyed!
Key Ingredients for Fresh Cherry Clafoutis
- 3 cups of fresh cherries, pitted (use sweet or tart depending on your preference)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 1 cup of granulated sugar (divided)
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract (optional for added flavor)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Bake Dish: Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This step helps the clafoutis release easily post-baking!
- Pit the Cherries: Rinse the cherries in cold water and remove the pits. If you prefer a less messy task, you can buy pitted cherries!
- Whisk Together the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar (reserve 2 tablespoons for later), milk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), flour, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Cherry and Batter: Pour about half of the batter into the greased baking dish. Scatter the pitted cherries evenly on top, and then pour the remaining batter over the cherries.
- Bake to Perfection: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the clafoutis is golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Dust and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before cutting into wedges and serving warm or at room temperature. Voilà!
What to Serve Fresh Cherry Clafoutis With
To elevate your clafoutis experience, serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This pairing adds a rich creaminess that complements the tartness of the cherries beautifully. For a fun twist, enjoy it with a refreshing scoop of lavender ice cream or a glass of sparkling rosé for an elegant touch. Your guests will love the bubbly contrast when combined with the sweet custard and cherries.
Top Tips for Perfecting Fresh Cherry Clafoutis
To take your clafoutis from good to incredible, here are some top tips! First, feel free to experiment with different fruits; blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches can be wonderfully delicious alternatives. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a hint of lemon zest or a splash of orange liqueur to the batter. Make sure not to over-mix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly okay. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time as ovens vary, and let the dessert cool fully for best results!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), fresh cherry clafoutis can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through, or pop the entire dish back in the oven at a low temperature until it’s warmed, restoring that delightful gooey texture.
Now that you have everything you need to whip up an unforgettable fresh cherry clafoutis, I can’t wait for you to try it! Gather your favorite cherries, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this luscious treat. Enjoy!
Fresh Cherry Clafoutis
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Rinse the cherries in cold water and remove the pits.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, reserved granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), flour, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Pour about half of the batter into the greased baking dish. Scatter the pitted cherries evenly on top, and then pour the remaining batter over the cherries.
- Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the clafoutis is golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before cutting into wedges and serving warm or at room temperature.
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