Cherry Clafoutis is a classic French dessert that beautifully combines simplicity and elegance. Originating from the Limousin region of France, clafoutis (pronounced kla-foo-tee) is traditionally made by baking fresh, whole cherries in a rich, flan-like batter made of eggs, milk, flour, and sugar. The result is a custardy cake with a golden top and juicy bursts of cherry throughout.
This dish is especially popular in summer when cherries are in season. While the traditional version uses unpitted black cherries (believed to enhance flavor), modern recipes often use pitted ones for easier eating. Cherry clafoutis is typically served warm, sometimes dusted with powdered sugar or topped with cream or ice cream.
Light yet indulgent, cherry clafoutis is perfect as a dessert, brunch treat, or even a sweet breakfast
Clafoutis hails from the Limousin region in central France and gained popularity in the 19th century. The name comes from the Occitan word “clafir”, meaning “to fill” (referring to how the fruit fills the batter). Originally, the dish was made with whole, unpitted black cherries, as the pits were believed to add a subtle almond-like flavor during baking.
🍒 Traditional Ingredients
- Cherries – Whole black cherries are traditional, but pitted cherries are often used today.
- Batter – A simple mix of:
- Eggs
- Milk or cream
- Sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- Butter (for greasing the dish)
- Optional toppings – Powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a splash of kirsch (cherry liqueur).
🥄 How It’s Made
- Fruit prep: Place the cherries in a buttered baking dish (some sprinkle sugar over them).
- Batter: Whisk together the batter and pour it over the cherries.
- Baking: Bake until puffed, set, and golden-brown.
- Serving: Traditionally served warm, dusted with powdered sugar.
✅ Tips for Making Great Clafoutis
- Use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture.
- Rest the batter for 30 minutes before baking to enhance the custard’s texture.
- Use a ceramic or glass baking dish for even cooking.
- Don’t overbake – the center should be just set and slightly jiggly.
🍒 Classic French Cherry Clafoutis
🍽️ Ingredients for Cherry Clafoutis
- 2 cups (300 g) fresh cherries, pitted
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the dish)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
🧑🍳 How to Make Cherry Clafoutis – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish (about 9-inch or 23 cm round) with butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and frothy.
Add in the flour and salt, mixing until smooth.
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract. Whisk to form a thin, smooth batter.
Step 3: Assemble
Spread the pitted cherries evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Pour the batter over the cherries.
Step 4: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick should come out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy warm, at room temperature, or chilled!
🍒 Nutritional Benefits of Cherry Clafoutis
1. Rich in Antioxidants
- Cherries are high in anthocyanins and vitamin C, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Antioxidants may support heart health and skin health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
2. Good Source of Fiber
- Fresh cherries contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
3. Provides Protein and Calcium
- Made with eggs and milk, clafoutis contains:
- Protein (for muscle repair and satiety)
- Calcium (for bone and dental health)
4. Contains Healthy Fats (if using whole milk or butter)
- In moderation, the healthy fats from milk, cream, or butter support brain health and hormone production.
5. Lower in Sugar (if adjusted)
- Traditional recipes can be high in sugar, but you can reduce added sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
✅ Healthier Tips
- Use whole wheat flour for more fiber.
- Use low-fat milk or plant-based milk.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor without extra sugar.
🍒 Traditional Clafoutis Variations (with Fruits)
- Cherry Clafoutis(classic)
- Made with fresh or pitted cherries.
- Berry Clafoutis
- Use a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
- Apple Clafoutis
- Thinly sliced apples sautéed in butter and cinnamon.
- Pear Clafoutis
- Fresh or poached pears with vanilla or almond extract.
- Plum Clafoutis
- Sliced ripe plums with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Fig Clafoutis
- Fresh figs add a honeyed, rich flavor.
- Peach or Nectarine Clafoutis
- Great for summer, especially with a splash of amaretto.
- Apricot Clafoutis
- Tart and sweet; pairs well with lavender or almond.
- Mango Clafoutis(exotic)
- Tropical twist; add a touch of lime zest.
- Banana Clafoutis
- Use caramelized bananas for extra depth.
🧁 Flavoured or Themed Variations
- Chocolate Clafoutis
- Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Nutty Clafoutis
- Add slivered almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios on top.
- Coconut Clafoutis
- Replace part of the milk/cream with coconut milk.
- Savory Clafoutis(non-sweet)
- Use ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cheese, and herbs for a brunch twist.
- Gluten-Free Clafoutis
- Use almond flour or cornstarch instead of wheat flour.
- Dairy-Free Clafoutis
- Use plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or coconut milk).
Conclusion:
Rustic French Clafoutis is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With its custard-like texture, golden edges, and bursts of sweet, baked fruit, clafoutis captures the charm of traditional French home baking. It’s a dessert that feels both comforting and refined, making it ideal for brunches, family gatherings, or a quiet moment of indulgence.
Whether you’re using classic cherries or experimenting with other seasonal fruits like berries, plums, or pears, clafoutis is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. It doesn’t require fancy techniques or equipment—just a love for fresh ingredients and a willingness to enjoy the little things in life.
Baking a clafoutis is about slowing down and savoring the process, from whisking the silky batter to watching it puff and turn golden in the oven. Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of cream, and you’ve got a dessert that’s rustic, elegant, and full of heart.
So, the next time you’re craving something simple yet satisfying, reach for this rustic French classic. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s been cherished for generations.
