Classic Clafoutis aux Cerises: A Timeless Cherry Dessert Recipe

Clafoutis aux cerises, or simply cherry clafoutis, is a classic French dessert that is both incredibly easy to make and utterly delightful to eat. This rustic baked custard features fresh cherries nestled within a creamy, slightly sweet batter. It’s the perfect dessert for showcasing seasonal cherries and requires minimal effort, making it ideal for both weeknight treats and elegant dinner parties. Its simplicity belies its sophistication; the combination of juicy cherries and delicate custard creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

## What is Clafoutis?

Clafoutis (pronounced kla-foo-TEE) originates from the Limousin region of France. Traditionally, it’s made with black cherries, pits and all. The pits are said to impart an almond-like flavor to the custard. While you can certainly leave the pits in, many modern recipes call for pitted cherries for ease of eating. Beyond cherries, you can adapt clafoutis to other fruits like berries, plums, or apples, although strictly speaking, if you use another fruit, it becomes a *flaugnarde*.

The beauty of clafoutis lies in its uncomplicated nature. It’s essentially a baked custard, similar in texture to a pancake or Yorkshire pudding. The batter is thin and easily poured over the fruit, creating a beautiful presentation as it bakes.

## Why This Recipe Works

This classic clafoutis recipe is a tried-and-true formula that consistently delivers a perfectly baked custard with tender cherries. Here’s why it works so well:

* **Simple Ingredients:** The recipe uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator: flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and a touch of vanilla.
* **Easy Preparation:** The batter comes together quickly in a blender or with a whisk, requiring minimal effort.
* **Perfect Texture:** The ratio of ingredients ensures a creamy, custardy texture that’s not too dense or too eggy.
* **Versatile:** While the recipe calls for cherries, you can easily adapt it to other fruits based on your preference and what’s in season.
* **Beautiful Presentation:** The finished clafoutis is visually stunning, with plump, juicy cherries peeking through the golden-brown custard.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

* **Fresh Cherries:** 1 pound (about 450g) of fresh cherries, pitted or unpitted (see notes below).
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1/2 cup (60g) provides structure to the custard.
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1/2 cup (100g) sweetens the custard and helps the cherries caramelize.
* **Eggs:** 3 large eggs bind the ingredients together and create the custard’s rich texture.
* **Whole Milk:** 1 cup (240ml) adds moisture and richness to the custard.
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon enhances the flavor of the custard.
* **Pinch of Salt:** Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
* **Butter:** 1 tablespoon, for greasing the baking dish.
* **Powdered Sugar:** For dusting the finished clafoutis (optional).

**Notes on Cherries:**

* **Pitting vs. Unpitting:** Traditionally, clafoutis is made with unpitted cherries. The pits are said to impart an almond-like flavor as they bake. However, eating clafoutis with pits can be a bit messy. If you prefer a more user-friendly dessert, pit the cherries before adding them to the batter. A cherry pitter makes this task much easier.
* **Fresh vs. Frozen:** While fresh cherries are ideal, you can use frozen cherries in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the batter to prevent the clafoutis from becoming soggy.
* **Variety:** Rainier cherries, Bing cherries, or any other sweet cherry variety will work well in this recipe.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a perfect classic cherry clafoutis:

**1. Prepare the Cherries:**

* Wash and dry the cherries thoroughly.
* If using pitted cherries, pit them using a cherry pitter or a small knife. Be careful not to damage the cherries too much.

**2. Prepare the Baking Dish:**

* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
* Grease a 9-inch (23cm) baking dish with butter. You can use a pie dish, a cake pan, or even a cast-iron skillet.

**3. Make the Batter:**

* In a blender or food processor, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
* Alternatively, you can whisk the ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Be sure to eliminate any lumps of flour.

**4. Assemble the Clafoutis:**

* Arrange the cherries evenly in the prepared baking dish.
* Pour the batter over the cherries, ensuring they are mostly submerged.

**5. Bake the Clafoutis:**

* Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set and golden brown around the edges.
* A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

**6. Cool and Serve:**

* Let the clafoutis cool slightly before serving. It will continue to set as it cools.
* Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
* Serve warm or at room temperature. Clafoutis is delicious on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the clafoutis will result in a dry, rubbery texture. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.
* **Use a Good Quality Vanilla Extract:** The vanilla extract adds a subtle but important flavor to the custard. Use a good quality extract for the best results.
* **Let it Rest:** Allow the clafoutis to cool slightly before serving. This will give the custard time to set and prevent it from being too runny.
* **Adjust Sweetness to Taste:** If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter.
* **Experiment with Flavors:** While vanilla is the classic flavoring, you can experiment with other extracts like almond or lemon. You can also add a splash of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the batter for a more intense cherry flavor.

## Variations and Adaptations

Clafoutis is a versatile dessert that can be easily adapted to suit your taste and preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

* **Berry Clafoutis:** Substitute the cherries with a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries.
* **Plum Clafoutis:** Use halved and pitted plums instead of cherries. This is a particularly delicious variation in the late summer.
* **Apple Clafoutis:** Peel, core, and slice apples into thin wedges. Toss them with a little cinnamon and sugar before adding them to the batter.
* **Chocolate Clafoutis:** Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist. You can also add chocolate chips to the clafoutis.
* **Savory Clafoutis:** Clafoutis can also be made savory. Omit the sugar and vanilla extract and add savory ingredients like cheese, herbs, and vegetables.

## Serving Suggestions

Clafoutis is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your dessert:

* **Whipped Cream:** A dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic accompaniment to clafoutis.
* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool and creamy contrast to the warm clafoutis.
* **Crème Fraîche:** A spoonful of crème fraîche adds a tangy and rich flavor.
* **Almonds:** Sprinkle toasted almonds over the clafoutis for added texture and flavor.
* **Sauce:** Drizzle with a simple fruit sauce, such as a raspberry or cherry sauce.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Leftover clafoutis can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
* **Freezer:** Clafoutis can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Note that the texture may be slightly altered after freezing.

## Clafoutis aux Cerises Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe for classic cherry clafoutis:

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

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound (450g) fresh cherries, pitted or unpitted
* 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
* 3 large eggs
* 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
* 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish
* Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

**Equipment:**

* 9-inch (23cm) baking dish
* Blender or whisk
* Cherry pitter (optional)

**Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Cherries:** Wash and dry the cherries thoroughly. If using pitted cherries, pit them using a cherry pitter or a small knife.
2. **Prepare the Baking Dish:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter.
3. **Make the Batter:** In a blender or food processor, combine the flour, sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can whisk the ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.
4. **Assemble the Clafoutis:** Arrange the cherries evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the batter over the cherries.
5. **Bake the Clafoutis:** Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set and golden brown around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the clafoutis cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 8-12g
* Saturated Fat: 4-6g
* Cholesterol: 80-100mg
* Sodium: 50-70mg
* Carbohydrates: 35-45g
* Fiber: 1-2g
* Sugar: 25-35g
* Protein: 6-8g

**Note:** Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

## Conclusion

Clafoutis aux cerises is a truly special dessert that embodies the spirit of simple elegance. Its combination of fresh, juicy cherries and creamy, custardy batter makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight treat or a show-stopping dessert for a dinner party, this classic recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in the delightful flavors of this timeless French dessert. Bon appétit!