Cherry Clafoutis

Cherry Clafoutis: A French Delicacy with an Irresistible Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 6

In the heart of French cuisine, clafoutis holds a place of honor, a rustic and simple dessert that is exceptionally delicious. It combines the fluffy texture of a batter similar to pancakes with the intense flavor of cherries, transforming into an unforgettable culinary experience. It's the perfect dessert for summer days when fresh fruits show their true splendor. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled and dusted with powdered sugar, clafoutis is sure to impress anyone.

The Magical Ingredients

To prepare this cherry clafoutis, you will need the following ingredients:

- 600 g fresh cherries (unsweetened, pitted)
- 90 g flour
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 250 ml milk
- 60 ml cream
- 50 g melted butter (plus a little for greasing the dish)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

Helpful Tips for Choosing Ingredients:

- Choose the ripest and most aromatic cherries, as they will give your dessert a unique flavor. You can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- Opt for quality butter, as it will influence the final flavor of the clafoutis.
- Use whole milk for a creamier taste and richer texture.

Preparing the Dessert

1. Preparing the baking dish: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Choose a medium-sized baking dish (about 24 cm in diameter) and grease it with butter. Dust it with a little flour to prevent sticking, then shake off the excess.

2. Preparing the cherries: If using fresh cherries, wash them well and remove the pits. Arrange them evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

3. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, add the flour and eggs. Use a mixer or a whisk to combine the ingredients. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to mix. It's important not to form lumps, so ensure the ingredients are well integrated.

4. Adding the liquid ingredients: While continuing to mix, gradually add the milk, cream, and melted butter. The batter should have a consistency similar to pancake batter - fluid but not too thin.

5. Pouring the batter: Pour the batter evenly over the cherries, ensuring they are covered. Now, your clafoutis is ready to go into the oven!

6. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 50 minutes. The dessert is ready when it turns golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling and serving: Allow the clafoutis to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. You can dust it with vanilla powdered sugar for a more attractive appearance. It's delicious both warm and cold, so don't hesitate to enjoy it in both variations.

Nutritional Details

This cherry clafoutis recipe provides approximately 230 calories per serving. It is a good source of protein due to the eggs and contains antioxidants from the cherries, known for their health benefits. Additionally, the cream and butter add a note of creaminess, making this dessert truly indulgent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits? Yes! Clafoutis can be made with almost any type of fruit, such as cherries, peaches, or blueberries. Be creative and experiment with different combinations!

2. How can I make the clafoutis less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or use natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.

3. Can clafoutis be stored? Yes, clafoutis can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. I recommend reheating it slightly before serving to restore its fluffy texture.

Creative Variations

If you want to add a touch of originality, try adding some extra flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can also add a little almond extract for a subtle and sophisticated flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a perfect experience, serve the clafoutis with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A cup of fresh mint tea or a well-made espresso will pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the dessert.

Therefore, cherry clafoutis is not just a dessert, but a story, a piece of culinary tradition that brings family and friends together around the table. The experience of preparing it is just as enjoyable as savoring it. So put on your apron and let your imagination soar! Enjoy!