If you’re craving a rustic, elegant dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make, say “bonjour” to Cherry Clafoutis! Pronounced “kla-foo-tee,” this French classic is a simple yet delightful baked dish that combines juicy cherries with a flan-like, custardy batter.
Traditionally made during cherry season in rural France, Cherry Clafoutis is the kind of dessert that feels gourmet but is made with basic ingredients you already have at home. It’s perfect for brunch, tea-time, or as a light summer dessert after a hearty meal.
🛒 Ingredients for Cherry Clafoutis
To serve 6, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh cherries (pitted or unpitted, depending on tradition)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
📝 Optional Add-Ons:
- Zest of 1 lemon for brightness
- Splash of cherry liqueur or Kirsch for depth
🍳 How to Make Cherry Clafoutis – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
- Wash and dry the cherries.
- Pit them if you prefer a more modern (and kid-friendly) version.
Traditional clafoutis uses whole cherries for added flavor.
Step 2: Preheat and Grease
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Generously butter a 9-inch pie dish or baking pan.
Step 3: Arrange the Fruit
- Spread the cherries evenly over the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until slightly pale.
- Add in the flour, salt, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
- Slowly pour in the milk and whisk to form a thin, pancake-like batter.
Step 5: Bake
- Pour the batter gently over the cherries.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set in the middle.
The top should be puffed and lightly browned.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
- Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
🍒 Why You’ll Love Cherry Clafoutis
- Rustic Elegance: It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough for beginners.
- Naturally Sweet: Cherries bring bold, tart-sweet flavor.
- Versatile: Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature.
- No Special Equipment: Just a bowl, whisk, and baking dish.
- Customizable: Works with other fruits like apricots, plums, or berries.
🧑🍳 Tips for the Perfect Clafoutis
- Don’t overmix the batter — it should be silky, not foamy.
- Use ripe cherries for maximum flavor and color.
- Serve with crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream for a decadent twist.
- The dessert deflates slightly after baking — this is normal and traditional!
🥗 Is Cherry Clafoutis Healthy?
While clafoutis isn’t a “diet” dessert, it’s lighter than cake or pie. A single serving contains:
- Approx. 200–250 calories
- High in protein (from eggs)
- Low in fat (if made without cream)
- Packed with antioxidants from cherries
🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Sugar: 18g
- Fibre: 2g
Cherry Clafoutis is one of those desserts that looks fancy but is surprisingly fuss-free. With only a handful of ingredients and a burst of cherry flavor in every bite, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Whether you’re new to French baking or a seasoned foodie, this recipe brings the essence of summer to your table in the most elegant way. Bon appétit! 🇫🇷
