Cherishing Clafoutis: A Timeless French Cherry Custard Pie from Limousin

Ingredients for a Classic Clafoutis

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh cherries (pitted, but left whole or halved depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (to lightly sweeten the cherries)

For the Custard Batter:

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Method: Crafting Your Clafoutis

Preparing the Cherries:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center.
2. Prepare the Cherries: Wash and pit your cherries. You can cut them in half if you prefer. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of sugar to enhance their natural sweetness. Set them aside.

Making the Batter:

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Make sure the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and salt together to avoid any lumps, then gradually whisk them into the wet ingredients until you have a smooth batter. The consistency should be somewhat similar to pancake batter—thick, but pourable.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously butter a 9-inch (23 cm) round baking dish or a similarly sized ovenproof dish. The butter ensures the clafoutis doesn’t stick and adds a subtle richness to the crust.
2. Add the Cherries: Spread the cherries evenly across the bottom of the buttered dish.
3. Pour the Batter: Gently pour the batter over the cherries, making sure they are evenly covered. The cherries will rise to the top as it bakes, creating a lovely pattern.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The clafoutis is done when it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should have a beautiful, slightly puffed appearance.
5. Cool and Serve: Let the clafoutis cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired. Serve it warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed as a light dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.

A Taste of Tradition: Why Clafoutis is a Culinary Gem

The beauty of clafoutis lies in its simplicity and the way it highlights the natural flavor of the cherries. Unlike many desserts that are laden with complex techniques or heavy ingredients, clafoutis is straightforward and accessible. The custard-like batter is light yet satisfying, creating a comforting contrast with the sweet, juicy cherries. This dish perfectly embodies the French culinary philosophy of taking simple, high-quality ingredients and preparing them with care to achieve something extraordinary.

Embracing the Rustic Elegance

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, Clafoutis aux Cerises is a wonderful recipe to add to your repertoire. It’s versatile enough to accommodate different fruits depending on the season. Peaches, plums, or even apples can be used in place of cherries, making it a year-round favorite. Each variation brings its own unique twist, but the core of the recipe remains delightfully unchanged—a tribute to the enduring charm of French country cooking.

Enjoy your clafoutis as a sweet note to end a meal, or serve it as a treat with coffee in the morning. Its rustic appeal and comforting flavors will undoubtedly make it a cherished recipe in your culinary collection.

Disclaimer: The recipes shared on this blog are intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. We do our best to ensure accuracy, but ingredient and preparation variations can alter results. Please use caution and consult a medical professional if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns. The blog and its authors are not liable for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of the recipes provided. Always prioritize your health and safety when cooking.