Cherry Clafoutis

Cherry clafoutis is a classic French dessert in which cherries are baked in a lightly sweetened, vanilla-scented custard. It is simple to prepare and can be served warm or at room temperature.

Ingredients

• 500 g fresh cherries
• 3 large eggs
• 100 g granulated sugar, plus extra for finishing
• 100 g all-purpose flour
• 300 ml whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 30 g unsalted butter, melted
• 1 pinch of salt
• Butter for greasing the baking dish

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Butter a medium baking dish. Wash and dry the cherries, then remove the stems. Pit them if preferred.
3. Arrange the cherries evenly in the prepared dish.
4. Whisk the eggs and sugar together until smooth. Add the flour and salt, mixing until no lumps remain.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk, vanilla and melted butter to form a thin batter.
6. Pour the batter over the cherries.
7. Bake for 35–45 minutes, until the clafoutis is puffed, lightly golden and just set in the center.
8. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle lightly with sugar if desired.

Serving and Storage

Serve the clafoutis warm or at room temperature. The center should remain soft and custard-like rather than cakey. Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container and enjoy them within two days.

Helpful Tips

• Dry the cherries well so they do not add excess water to the custard.
• For easier serving, remove the cherry pits before baking.
• A shallow baking dish helps the custard cook evenly.
• Let the dessert rest briefly after baking so it can finish setting.