Delectable Pear Clafoutis: A Simple & Elegant Dessert Recipe

Pear clafoutis is a classic French dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s essentially a baked custard with fruit, and it’s perfect for using up ripe pears. This recipe is simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious, making it ideal for a weeknight treat or a special occasion. The pears become tender and caramelized during baking, contrasting beautifully with the creamy, slightly sweet custard. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

## What is Clafoutis?

Clafoutis (pronounced kla-foo-TEE) originates from the Limousin region of France. Traditionally, it’s made with black cherries, but the recipe is incredibly adaptable to other fruits, like berries, apples, plums, and, of course, pears. The batter is similar to pancake batter, making it quick to prepare and requiring minimal ingredients. The beauty of clafoutis lies in its simplicity – it’s a rustic dessert that doesn’t require fussy techniques or elaborate decorations.

## Why This Pear Clafoutis Recipe Works

This recipe works because it strikes the perfect balance between ease of preparation and exquisite flavor. Here’s why:

* **Simple Ingredients:** You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
* **Quick to Prepare:** The batter comes together in minutes, and the pears require minimal prep.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding different spices or extracts.
* **Elegant Presentation:** Despite its simplicity, clafoutis looks incredibly elegant, making it perfect for serving to guests.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of tender pears and creamy custard is simply irresistible.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients:

* **Pears:** 4 medium-sized ripe pears (such as Anjou, Bartlett, or Bosc). The ripeness of the pears is important, as it will contribute to the overall sweetness and texture of the dessert. Choose pears that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy.
* **Eggs:** 3 large eggs. Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
* **Milk:** 1 cup whole milk. Whole milk provides richness and creaminess to the custard. You can substitute with 2% milk, but the texture will be slightly less decadent. Non-dairy milk alternatives can be used, but be aware that they may alter the flavor and texture.
* **Flour:** 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. The flour provides structure to the batter. You can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
* **Sugar:** 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling on top. The sugar sweetens the custard and helps the pears caramelize. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your liking, depending on the sweetness of the pears.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the custard. Use a good quality vanilla extract for the best results.
* **Almond Extract:** 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional). Almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the pears beautifully. If you don’t have almond extract, you can omit it.
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing the baking dish. The melted butter adds richness to the batter and helps prevent the clafoutis from sticking to the baking dish.
* **Pinch of Salt:** A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
* **Powdered Sugar:** For dusting (optional).

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **9-inch Baking Dish:** A 9-inch pie dish or baking dish is ideal for this recipe. You can also use a cast-iron skillet.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For mixing the batter.
* **Whisk:** For whisking the ingredients together.
* **Vegetable Peeler:** For peeling the pears.
* **Knife:** For coring and slicing the pears.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measuring.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious pear clafoutis:

**Step 1: Prepare the Pears**

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter. This will prevent the clafoutis from sticking and ensure easy removal.
2. Peel, core, and slice the pears into approximately ¼-inch thick slices. Slicing the pears evenly ensures they cook uniformly.
3. Arrange the pear slices in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. You can overlap them slightly. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
4. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the pears. This will help them caramelize during baking and add a touch of sweetness.

**Step 2: Make the Batter**

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), melted butter, and salt until smooth. Ensure there are no lumps in the batter. Overmixing can develop gluten and make the clafoutis tough, so whisk gently until just combined.

**Step 3: Assemble and Bake**

1. Pour the batter evenly over the pears in the baking dish. Make sure the pears are submerged in the batter.
2. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so check it regularly after 45 minutes.
3. Let the clafoutis cool slightly before serving. It’s best served warm or at room temperature. The clafoutis will deflate slightly as it cools, which is normal.

**Step 4: Serve and Enjoy**

1. Dust with powdered sugar (optional). This adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature. The clafoutis is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

## Tips for the Best Pear Clafoutis

* **Use Ripe Pears:** Ripe pears will be sweeter and more flavorful.
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing can make the clafoutis tough.
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Room temperature ingredients will blend together more easily, resulting in a smoother batter.
* **Grease the Baking Dish Well:** This will prevent the clafoutis from sticking.
* **Let it Cool Slightly Before Serving:** This will allow the clafoutis to set up and make it easier to slice.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Other Fruits:** Try using other fruits like apples, berries, or plums.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for a warm and spicy flavor.
* **Nuts:** Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top of the clafoutis before baking.
* **Liquor:** Add a tablespoon of brandy or rum to the batter for a boozy kick.
* **Dairy-Free:** Use almond milk or oat milk instead of cow’s milk for a dairy-free version.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
* **Sweeteners:** Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. You can also use other sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.

## Serving Suggestions

Pear clafoutis is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Warm with Whipped Cream:** A classic pairing that’s always a winner.
* **With Vanilla Ice Cream:** The cold ice cream complements the warm clafoutis perfectly.
* **Drizzled with Caramel Sauce:** Adds a touch of decadence.
* **Served with a Cup of Coffee or Tea:** A perfect afternoon treat.
* **As Part of a Brunch Spread:** A sophisticated addition to any brunch menu.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover pear clafoutis in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the clafoutis in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals.

## Pear Clafoutis Recipe

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 45-55 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 4 medium-sized ripe pears (such as Anjou, Bartlett, or Bosc)
* 3 large eggs
* 1 cup whole milk
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling on top
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing the baking dish
* Pinch of salt
* Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Peel, core, and slice the pears into approximately ¼-inch thick slices.
3. Arrange the pear slices in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the pears.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), melted butter, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour the batter evenly over the pears in the baking dish.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. Let the clafoutis cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar (optional). Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy this delightful pear clafoutis! It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that’s sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fruits and spices to create your own unique variations. Happy baking!