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1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish, round baking dish, or a similar-sized dish with butter or cooking spray. This will help the clafoutis come out easily once it’s baked.
2. Prepare the Cherries:
Wash the cherries thoroughly, remove the pits, and set them aside. If you prefer, you can cut them in half, but it’s not necessary. Just ensure the cherries are well-drained so they don’t release too much liquid into the batter as it bakes.
3. Make the Batter:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), salt, and flour. Continue whisking until the batter is smooth and fully combined. The batter should have a pourable consistency, somewhat similar to pancake batter.
4. Arrange the Cherries:
Place the pitted cherries in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread them out evenly, making sure they’re well distributed across the bottom of the dish.
5. Pour the Batter:
Once the cherries are arranged, pour the batter over them. The cherries will float to the top as it bakes, creating a beautiful and delicious presentation. Don’t worry if the cherries aren’t fully submerged—they will soften and bake into the custard-like batter.
6. Bake the Clafoutis:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden and set in the middle. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the top should be slightly puffed and browned. Keep an eye on it, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
7. Let It Cool:
Once the clafoutis is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. You’ll notice that the dessert may deflate slightly as it cools down, which is perfectly normal. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cherry Clafoutis warm, dusted with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. It’s perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a delicious finish to a meal.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Clafoutis:
- Use Fresh, In-Season Cherries: For the best flavor, use ripe, fresh cherries. If fresh cherries aren’t available, you can substitute frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can cause it to become tough. Mix just until combined to achieve a light and airy texture.
- Add Zest for Extra Flavor: For a citrusy twist, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for an additional layer of flavor.
- Customize with Other Fruits: Although cherries are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits like blackberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a different taste.
- Serve Warm: Clafoutis is best served warm, but it can be enjoyed at room temperature as well. If you have leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven.
Why Cherry Clafoutis is the Perfect Dessert:
Cherry Clafoutis is the perfect dessert for those looking for something simple yet sophisticated. It’s light enough to enjoy after a hearty meal, but flavorful enough to be the star of the show. Its rich, custard-like consistency and the natural sweetness of the cherries combine to create a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal recipe for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.
With its delicate sweetness and rich texture, Cherry Clafoutis will quickly become one of your go-to desserts for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or a cozy family gathering, this French classic is sure to bring smiles to the table.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, look no further than Cherry Clafoutis. This simple French dessert brings together the sweetness of fresh cherries and the richness of a custard-like batter, creating a treat that’s both comforting and elegant. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can serve up a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
