Black Clafoutis with cherries and strawberries

Cherry and Strawberry Clafoutis – A Light and Delicious Dessert

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines the fresh flavors of fruit with a velvety and fluffy texture? Clafoutis is a traditional dessert, originating from an area with a rich culinary history, where fruits are famous for their flavor. This Cherry and Strawberry Clafoutis recipe promises to bring a touch of elegance and indulgence to your table. It is a perfect choice for a sweet snack, a brunch, or even to impress guests at dinner. Let's see together how to prepare this delicious dessert, step by step!

Preparation and Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-65 minutes
- Number of Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients:
- 5 fresh eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 ¾ cups milk
- 1 ½ cups flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional)
- 1 cup pitted cherries
- 1 cup strawberries (halved)
- Butter (for greasing the pan)

Ingredient Tips:
- Choose fresh, seasonal cherries and strawberries for the best flavors. If you don’t have fresh fruit, you can use frozen fruit, but make sure to drain them well of excess water.
- It is recommended to use room temperature eggs, as they will incorporate better into the mixture, resulting in a fluffier clafoutis.

Step by Step:

1. Beat the Eggs with Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar using a whisk or electric mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy.

2. Add the Flour: Sift the flour directly into the bowl with the eggs and sugar. This step helps prevent lumps in the mixture. Gently mix to incorporate the flour, being careful not to form lumps.

3. Incorporate the Liquids: Gradually pour in the milk, mixing continuously. Add the vanilla extract and sifted cocoa powder. The cocoa is optional but adds an interesting taste and a special hue to the dessert. If you want a uniform texture, it’s better to sift the cocoa before adding it.

4. Prepare the Pan: Grease a baking dish with butter. It is important to use a 20 cm pan to achieve an even thickness for the clafoutis. If you prefer a less greasy version, you can use cooking spray or parchment paper.

5. Bake the Base: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven at 190°C for 10 minutes. This step helps achieve a fluffy base.

6. Add the Fruits: Remove the pan from the oven and place the cherries and strawberries on top of the mixture. These fruits will add a delicious contrast and a note of freshness.

7. Continue Baking: Place the pan back in the oven, setting the temperature to 160°C. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the clafoutis is well risen and lightly browned at the edges. A simple way to check if it’s done is to insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the clafoutis is perfect!

8. Cooling and Serving: Allow the clafoutis to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. It’s delicious and simple!

Customized Version: If you want to experiment, you can replace the cherries with cherries or raspberries, or even add pecans for extra crunch. Also, for a more intense flavor, you can add a little almond extract.

Nutritional Benefits:
This clafoutis is a relatively healthy choice, considering it is high in protein due to the eggs and contains antioxidants from the fruit. Cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and high vitamin C content, while strawberries provide fiber and are an excellent source of antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! Clafoutis can be adapted with various fruits, such as peaches, apples, or berries.
- Can it be made ahead of time? Yes, clafoutis can be prepared a few hours before serving, but it is best when freshly out of the oven.
- How can I store the clafoutis? Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

Recommended Pairings: This dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or fresh cream, offering a delicious contrast between hot and cold. A cup of fruit tea or a sweet wine will perfectly complement this culinary experience.

I hope you will try this Cherry and Strawberry Clafoutis recipe and that it will quickly become a favorite of yours! While you savor this delicacy, I will be on vacation, thinking about all the desserts I will prepare upon my return. Bon Appétit!