Clafoutis

Two bowls of Clafoutis cherry pie with a spoon, ready to be enjoyed. pinit

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Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert that exudes elegance and simplicity. This delightful dish is a fusion of a custard and a cake, made with seasonal fruits enveloped in a luscious batter. Its name is derived from the French word “clafir,” which means “to fill” — an apt description as it’s filled with the goodness of fresh fruits and love. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of clafoutis, exploring its history, ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and helpful tips to create the perfect clafoutis in your own kitchen.

Clafoutis, a classic French dessert, embodies the rustic charm and simplicity of French cuisine. This delightful dish has its origins in the Limousin region of France and is celebrated for its versatility and deliciousness.

  • The word “clafoutis” is derived from the Occitan dialect spoken in the Limousin region, where it was first created. It is believed to date back to the 19th century.
  • Traditionally, clafoutis features black cherries arranged in a buttery batter made from eggs, milk, sugar, and flour.
  • Over time, variations of clafoutis have emerged, with different fruits like raspberries, blueberries, and apples being used to create delightful twists on the classic recipe.

Clafoutis is beloved for its tender, custard-like texture and the way it showcases the natural sweetness of seasonal fruits. It’s a dessert that captures the essence of French country cooking.

Clafoutis

Clafoutis is a rustic and versatile dessert that originated in the Limousin region of France. Traditionally, black cherries were used as the main fruit, but today, various fruits like berries, peaches, plums, and apples are popular choices. The magic of clafoutis lies in the batter, which is a harmonious blend of eggs, milk, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, resulting in a custard-like texture with a slight caramelized top.

Tools and Equipment

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 6 Calories: 334.68 Best Season: Summer

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a shallow baking dish or pie pan with butter or cooking spray.

  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.

  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are light and frothy.

  4. Gradually add the beaten eggs to the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to form a smooth batter.

  5. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, and stir until the mixture is well combined.

  6. Add the vanilla extract to the batter, giving it a gentle mix.

  7. Arrange the pitted cherries or other fruits at the bottom of the greased baking dish.

  8. Pour the batter over the fruits, ensuring an even distribution.

  9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden brown and set.

  10. Remove the clafoutis from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

  11. Optional: Dust the clafoutis with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

  12. Slice and serve warm, savoring the custard-like texture and the burst of fruity goodness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 334.68kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 13.22g21%
Saturated Fat 7.43g38%
Trans Fat 0.25g
Cholesterol 125.69mg42%
Sodium 96.04mg5%
Potassium 303.95mg9%
Total Carbohydrate 47.16g16%
Dietary Fiber 2.12g9%
Sugars 28.95g
Protein 8g16%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.

Note

Tips and Variations:
  • Experiment with different seasonal fruits such as raspberries, blackberries, plums, or sliced apples to customize the clafoutis according to your taste preferences.
  • For a boozy twist, add a splash of Kirsch or Amaretto to the batter.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix instead of all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Clafoutis is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of fruit coulis.
Allergen Information:
  • Clafoutis typically contains dairy in the form of milk and butter, as well as eggs and flour. Individuals with dairy or egg allergies or gluten sensitivities should seek allergen-free alternatives when making or enjoying clafoutis.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
  • Clafoutis pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages that complement its delicate sweetness. Consider serving it with a glass of Sauternes, a French dessert wine, or a light and bubbly Moscato.
  • For a non-alcoholic option, enjoy clafoutis with a cup of chamomile tea or a vanilla-infused latte.
Storage and Leftovers:
  • Clafoutis is best enjoyed fresh from the oven while it's still warm. However, if you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
  • When reheating, gently warm individual servings in the oven to preserve the custardy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can cause the custard to become rubbery.
  • Clafoutis can also be served cold, and leftover slices make for a delightful breakfast treat. Simply dust with powdered sugar and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Keywords: Clafoutis, French Dessert, Custard, Seasonal Fruits, Baking, Patisserie

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
What is Clafoutis?

Clafoutis is a classic French dessert featuring a custard-like batter baked with fruits, typically cherries. It has a texture similar to flan or a thick pancake. The batter is poured over pitted cherries or seasonal fruits and baked until golden and set. It's often dusted with powdered sugar and served warm.

Can I use fruits other than cherries in Clafoutis?

Yes, while traditional Clafoutis uses cherries, you can substitute other seasonal fruits such as berries, peaches, plums, or apples. Adjust the baking time slightly if using fruits that release more juice or have a firmer texture. The fruit should be ripe for the best flavor.

How do I prevent Clafoutis from becoming rubbery?

To prevent a rubbery texture, avoid overbaking the Clafoutis. Bake it just until the top is golden and the custard is set but still slightly soft. Overmixing the batter can also cause a denser texture, so gently whisk the ingredients to combine without overworking the batter.

Can I make Clafoutis ahead of time?

Clafoutis is best served warm right out of the oven, but you can make it a few hours ahead and reheat it in the oven at a low temperature before serving. Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or gently warmed up in the oven. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain its custard-like texture.

Is Clafoutis served warm or cold?

Clafoutis is traditionally served warm, which enhances the custardy texture and brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. However, it can also be served cold, especially as a breakfast treat or light dessert. When serving cold, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch.

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