Cherry Clafoutis Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that’s as effortless as it is impressive, let me introduce you to Cherry Clafoutis. This classic French treat features sweet, juicy cherries suspended in a soft, just-set custard that’s somewhere between a pancake and a flan. The magic happens right in your oven, as a simple batter bakes up golden and puffed around the fruit. Whether you’re entertaining or simply craving something special with your morning coffee, this recipe is about to steal your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how straightforward this ingredient list is—each item plays a vital role, from the lush pop of cherries to the creamy finish of whole milk. These simple pantry staples really let the flavors of the fruit and vanilla shine, creating the signature taste of Cherry Clafoutis. Don’t skip even the tiniest detail; every ingredient has a purpose!

• Fresh sweet cherries: The juicy, ripe centerpiece; pit them for easier eating, or use drained canned cherries in a pinch.
• Large eggs: Room temperature eggs lend a silky structure to the custard.
• All-purpose flour: Just enough to bind the batter and create a soft, tender texture.
• Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect level of sweetness to the batter and creates a golden, crisp top when sprinkled before baking.
• Whole milk or half & half: Ensures the custard is incredibly creamy and luscious.
• Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth that beautifully complements the cherries.
• Almond extract: Amplifies that classic cherry-almond pairing; a little goes a long way!
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweet and heighten flavor.
• Powdered sugar: Delicate dusting for an elegant, café-inspired finish.

How to Make Cherry Clafoutis

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Generously butter the bottom—and don’t be shy here—of your 9 or 10-inch baking dish or pie plate. The butter not only helps keep the Cherry Clafoutis from sticking but also adds a little extra flavor and that irresistible golden edge.

Step 2: Arrange the Cherries

Evenly spread your pitted cherries over the bottom of the prepared dish. This ensures every slice is bursting with fruit, plus you’ll get that iconic look of glossy cherries peeking through the custard as it bakes.

Step 3: Blend the Batter

In a blender, combine the eggs, granulated sugar (but remember to reserve 2 tablespoons for the topping), milk, flour, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt. Blitz until completely smooth. The blender quickly whisks up a light, silky batter with no effort—a huge plus when you want dessert fast.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the freshly blended batter evenly over the cherries in the dish. The cherries might float a little and that’s perfect! Sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of sugar over the top—this melts in the oven, forming a delicate, golden crisp cap. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the custard is puffed, golden, and just set in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the Cherry Clafoutis from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes (if you can wait). This allows the custard to firm up just enough for the classic, cuttable texture. The beauty? It’s delicious warm, at room temperature, or even chilled straight from the fridge.

How to Serve Cherry Clafoutis

Garnishes

For a classic, bistro-style finish, generously dust the cooled Cherry Clafoutis with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also add a dollop of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—this takes each bite beautifully over the top.

Side Dishes

Keep things light with a fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad if you’re enjoying clafoutis for brunch. For dessert, serve alongside coffee, tea, or a splash of dessert wine to echo the French experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking individual Cherry Clafoutis in ramekins for an elegant, personal touch at dinner parties. Or, cut the cooled clafoutis into squares and serve layered with lemon curd or cherry compote in little jars for a playful, picnic-ready dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cherry Clafoutis keeps wonderfully in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The texture stays dreamy and the flavors meld even more as it sits—making it a fabulous “bake once, enjoy multiple times” treat.

Freezing

If you want to freeze Cherry Clafoutis, cool it completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results—the custard may release a little liquid upon thawing, but will still taste delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices in a 300 degree F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until just warmed through. Alternatively, a quick microwave zap (about 20–30 seconds per slice) works well for busy mornings or impromptu dessert cravings.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Clafoutis?

Absolutely! Just remember to thaw and drain them well before using, or your clafoutis may become watery. The flavor remains lovely and you can enjoy this dessert year-round.

Do I need to pit the cherries?

Yes, it’s best to pit cherries before baking. Classic recipes sometimes leave the pits in for extra almond flavor, but for easy, worry-free eating, I strongly recommend pitting them ahead.

How do I know when the clafoutis is done?

The custard should be just set in the center with a subtle jiggle, and the top will be lightly golden. Insert a knife near the center—if it comes out mostly clean with just a little moisture, it’s ready!

Can I make Cherry Clafoutis gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free blend. The result is virtually identical: a creamy, tender dessert with all the charm of the original.

Is Cherry Clafoutis best served warm or cold?

Truly, it’s delicious both ways! Warm clafoutis is soft and comforting, while a chilled slice is extra refreshing on a hot day. Try both and see which speaks to you.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a foolproof dessert that feels luxe but takes almost no effort, give Cherry Clafoutis a try. There’s something so wonderful about the way this dish brings juicy cherries and creamy custard together in one dreamy bite. Go ahead and treat yourself—you’ll be so glad you did!

Print