Cherry Clafoutis : Classic French Dessert Recipe

Celebrate the simplicity of French baking with this cherry clafoutis, a classic dessert that combines sweet cherries with a rich, custardy batter. This rustic dish is incredibly easy to prepare and makes a perfect ending to any meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can bring the elegance of French cuisine to your table.

Why This Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is a Must-Try

This cherry clafoutis recipe is a delightful mix of creamy custard and the natural sweetness of cherries. It’s versatile enough to serve as a dessert, breakfast, or brunch centerpiece. For more classic dessert recipes, check out our dessert category.

The dish is quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fresh cherries without spending hours in the kitchen. For another fruity and custard-like dessert, try our French Napoleon Pastry Recipe.

Ingredients for Cherry Clafoutis

Here’s what you’ll need to create the best cherry clafoutis:

• 1 tbsp of butter (for greasing)
• 2 cups of fresh cherries, pitted
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of whole milk
• ½ cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

For more baking inspiration, explore our baking category.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cherry Clafoutis

1. Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9-inch baking dish or tart pan with butter and lightly dust with flour. Arrange the cherries in a single layer on the bottom.

2. Make the Batter

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
• Gradually add the flour, mixing until smooth.
• Slowly pour in the milk and vanilla extract, whisking until the batter is uniform and slightly thin.

3. Assemble the Clafoutis

• Pour the batter over the cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
• Tap the dish gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

4. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

For a breakfast-worthy twist on this classic dessert, try pairing it with our Banana Spinach Pancakes.

Customizing Your Cherry Clafoutis Recipe

This homemade cherry clafoutis recipe is easy to personalize. Here are some ideas:

• Use Different Fruits:
  • Substitute cherries with plums, peaches, or berries for a seasonal variation.
• Add Flavor Enhancements:
  • Incorporate a splash of almond extract or lemon zest for extra depth.
• Create Mini Clafoutis:
  • Use ramekins to make individual servings, perfect for parties or brunch.

For more creative dessert ideas, visit our snacks category.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Clafoutis

1. Choose Fresh Cherries
   Fresh, ripe cherries deliver the best flavor. Pitted cherries make serving easier, but traditional recipes often leave them whole.
2. Use Whole Milk
   Whole milk adds creaminess to the custard, but you can substitute with plant-based milk for a lighter option.
3. Bake Until Just Set
   Avoid overbaking to keep the custard soft and creamy.
4. Serve Warm or Chilled
   Cherry clafoutis tastes delightful warm, but it’s equally enjoyable chilled as a refreshing treat.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Clafoutis

This cherry clafoutis pairs wonderfully with:

• A dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• A glass of dessert wine or freshly brewed coffee for a sophisticated pairing.

For a complementary dish, try our Avocado Breakfast Sandwich for a savory counterpart to this sweet delight.

Nutrition Facts for Cherry Clafoutis

Per serving (based on 6 servings, approximate values):

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Sugars: 17g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 50mg

Cherry Clafoutis is a delightful French dessert that balances the natural sweetness of cherries with the richness of a custard-like batter. Low in fat and moderate in sugar, it’s a light yet indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.

Regional Variations of Cherry Clafoutis

Although rooted in France, Cherry Clafoutis has inspired variations across regions:

1. Classic French Clafoutis
   • Key Ingredients: Dark sweet cherries, eggs, milk, sugar, and a hint of vanilla.
   • Flavor Profile: Creamy, custard-like, and subtly sweet.
   • Pairing: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream.
2. Provençal-Inspired Clafoutis
   • Key Ingredients: Cherries, almond extract, and a splash of orange liqueur.
   • Flavor Profile: Nutty, citrusy, and aromatic.
   • Pairing: Best enjoyed with a glass of dessert wine or coffee.
3. American Twist
   • Key Ingredients: Incorporates sour cherries, brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon.
   • Flavor Profile: Warm, spiced, and slightly tart.
   • Pairing: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
4. Gluten-Free Cherry Clafoutis
   • Key Ingredients: Uses almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
   • Flavor Profile: Nutty and light, with a creamy texture.
   • Pairing: Serve with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
5. Mixed Berry Clafoutis
   • Key Ingredients: Combines cherries with blueberries and raspberries.
   • Flavor Profile: Bright, fruity, and tangy.
   • Pairing: Complement with a fresh berry compote.

Fun Cooking Techniques for Kids

Making Cherry Clafoutis is a fun and educational way to involve kids in the kitchen:

1. Pitting the Cherries
   • Activity: Let kids remove the pits using a cherry pitter or by hand.
   • Learning Outcome: Teaches them about fruit preparation and manual dexterity.
2. Mixing the Batter
   • Activity: Allow kids to whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and flour.
   • Learning Outcome: Develops motor skills and introduces them to basic baking techniques.
3. Arranging the Cherries
   • Activity: Let kids layer cherries in the baking dish before pouring the batter.
   • Learning Outcome: Encourages creativity and involvement.
4. Dusting with Sugar
   • Activity: Kids can sprinkle powdered sugar over the baked clafoutis.
   • Learning Outcome: Enhances their presentation skills.
5. Plating the Dessert
   • Activity: Encourage kids to plate the clafoutis with garnishes like whipped cream or fresh fruit.
   • Learning Outcome: Instills pride in their culinary creation.

Kitchen Tools to Elevate Cherry Clafoutis

1. Cherry Pitter
   • Ensures quick and mess-free cherry preparation.
2. Mixing Bowl
   • Perfect for whisking the batter to a smooth consistency.
3. Whisk
   • Helps achieve a lump-free batter.
4. Baking Dish
   • Use a shallow, oven-safe dish for even cooking and presentation.
5. Sifter
   • Ideal for dusting powdered sugar evenly over the clafoutis.
6. Cooling Rack
   • Allows the clafoutis to cool slightly before serving, enhancing its texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter
   • Mix just until smooth to avoid a dense texture.
2. Using Cold Ingredients
   • Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for a consistent batter.
3. Skipping the Grease
   • Grease the baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
4. Overbaking
   • Bake until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly to avoid a dry texture.
5. Not Allowing to Cool
   • Let the clafoutis cool for a few minutes to allow the custard to set properly.

Creative Add-Ins

1. Almond Flour
   • Replace part of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
2. Chocolate Chips
   • Sprinkle dark chocolate chips into the batter for a rich twist.
3. Citrus Zest
   • Add orange or lemon zest for a refreshing burst of flavor.
4. Vanilla Bean
   • Use fresh vanilla bean for an elevated, aromatic touch.
5. Spices
   • Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced profile.

How to Double or Scale Cherry Clafoutis

1. Use a Larger Baking Dish
   • Scale up the recipe proportionally and bake in a larger dish for more servings.
2. Prepare Batter in Bulk
   • Whisk a larger quantity of batter in a big mixing bowl for efficiency.
3. Bake in Multiple Dishes
   • Use smaller individual ramekins for personalized servings.
4. Adjust Baking Time
   • Larger clafoutis may require a slightly longer baking time. Keep an eye on the edges and center for doneness.

How to Store Cherry Clafoutis

1. Refrigeration
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating Tips
   • Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes or enjoy cold as a pudding-like dessert.
3. Freezing
   • Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Cherry Clafoutis in Culture

Cherry Clafoutis is a beloved dessert from the Limousin region of France, traditionally made with black cherries. It is often enjoyed during the cherry harvest season and symbolizes the celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

The dish has become a global favorite for its simplicity and elegance. Whether served warm or cold, Cherry Clafoutis is a dessert that bridges the gap between rustic comfort and sophisticated dining.

How to Adapt Cherry Clafoutis for Special Diets

1. Gluten-Free Option
   • Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Dairy-Free
   • Substitute milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
3. Low-Sugar Option
   • Use a sugar substitute like stevia or reduce the sugar amount.
4. Vegan-Friendly
   • Replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg and use plant-based milk.
5. Keto-Friendly
   • Replace flour with almond flour and sugar with erythritol.

How to Adapt Cherry Clafoutis for Special Occasions

1. Elegant Dinner Party
   • Serve in individual ramekins with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
2. Holiday Dessert
   • Add cranberries and orange zest for a festive twist.
3. Romantic Date Night
   • Garnish with powdered sugar and fresh cherries for an intimate touch.
4. Brunch Gathering
   • Serve with a side of fresh fruit and champagne.
5. Family Potluck
   • Prepare a larger version in a casserole dish for easy sharing.

FAQs About Cherry Clafoutis

1. Can I make cherry clafoutis ahead of time?

Yes! Cherry clafoutis can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

2. Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes! Thaw the cherries and pat them dry before using to avoid excess moisture.

3. What’s the texture of clafoutis?

Clafoutis has a soft, custard-like texture, similar to a flan or thick pancake.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Explore More EMMA Recipes

If you loved this cherry clafoutis recipe, explore our dessert category for more sweet treats or check out our baking category for other creative ideas. From classic French desserts to modern baking favorites, our site offers inspiration for every occasion.

Every dish you prepare is an opportunity to create, experiment, and nourish not only your body but also your soul. Whether it’s a comforting breakfast, a delicious dessert, or a meal to share with loved ones, remember that cooking is first and foremost an adventure — a journey of discovery. Don’t be afraid to add your personal touch, improvise, and have fun in the kitchen. After all, the best recipes are the ones that come from the heart. So, put on your apron, let your imagination run wild, and savor every moment, because in the kitchen, every minute spent creating a dish is one step closer to happiness. Enjoy and see you soon for more delicious inspirations!

Happy baking! 😊