I have always had a soft spot for desserts that remind me of summer, and one of my absolute favorites is the Easy Cherry Clafoutis Recipe. This French classic is simple to make and brings the delightful taste of fresh cherries to the forefront. I remember the first time I tried clafoutis at a quaint little café. The moment I took a bite, I was hooked. The creamy texture and sweet cherries made for a heavenly combination.
What is Clafoutis?
Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert that originated in the Limousin region. It is a baked custard-like dish filled with fruit, typically cherries. The batter is easy to whip up and has a delightful texture. I love how it feels like a cross between a pancake and a flan, making it a unique treat.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cherry Clafoutis Recipe
This Easy Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is perfect for several reasons:
- Quick to Prepare: You can whip it up in no time.
- Minimal Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
- Versatile: You can use other fruits if cherries aren’t in season.
- Impressive Presentation: It looks beautiful when served.
Ingredients for Cherry Clafoutis Recipe
Here’s what you need to make this delicious dessert:
- Fresh Cherries: 2 cups, pitted and halved
- Eggs: 3 large
- Milk: 1 cup
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
- Salt: A pinch
- Butter: 2 Tbsp, melted
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting (optional)
How to Make Cherry Clafoutis
Making this Easy Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is a breeze. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your clafoutis bakes evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a pie dish or a cast-iron skillet with butter. This will help prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Prepare the Cherries: Wash and pit the cherries. Halve them and set them aside. I love using fresh cherries, but frozen ones work too if fresh aren’t available.
- Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. The batter should be slightly thinner than pancake batter.
- Combine: Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish. Then, evenly distribute the cherries over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. The clafoutis should puff up and turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Cherry Clafoutis Recipe
To make sure your Easy Cherry Clafoutis turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Use Ripe Cherries: The sweetness of the cherries will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Serve Warm: Clafoutis is best enjoyed warm. The flavors are more pronounced, and the texture is delightful.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add almond extract or a splash of liqueur for a unique twist.
Variations of Clafoutis
While cherries are traditional, you can easily switch things up. Here are some variations I enjoy:
- Mixed Berry Clafoutis: Use a mix of berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries.
- Peach Clafoutis: Fresh peaches add a lovely sweetness and a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Chip Clafoutis: Add chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
- Apple Cinnamon Clafoutis: Use thinly sliced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy dessert.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving my Easy Cherry Clafoutis with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The coolness of the cream contrasts beautifully with the warm clafoutis. You can also pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Cover the clafoutis with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about 2 to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm it up in the oven or microwave before serving. It tastes just as good!
Nutritional Information
While clafoutis is a dessert, it can be a bit lighter than other options. Here’s a rough idea of the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugars: 10g
This Easy Cherry Clafoutis Recipe has become a staple in my home, especially during cherry season. It is simple, delicious, and never fails to impress my family and friends. I love how versatile it is, allowing me to experiment with different fruits and flavors.