Cherry Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert that combines tart cherries with a creamy, custard-like batter. This quick and easy recipe, adapted from Julia Child’s classic, requires only 5 minutes of preparation and less than an hour to bake. The result is a subtly sweet dish with a golden brown crust and a slightly creamy center, perfect for entertaining or a delightful treat any day.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound (about 3 cups) fresh black cherries, stemmed and pitted
½ cup slivered almonds
⅓ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, separated
½ cup all-purpose flour
1¼ cups whole milk, room temperature
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract
Pinch of salt
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the butter in a 2-quart baking dish and put it in the oven until melted. Remove the dish from the oven.
Arrange the pitted cherries in a single layer over the melted butter. Sprinkle the slivered almonds evenly over the cherries.
In a blender, combine ⅓ cup granulated sugar, flour, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and frothy, about 1 minute.
Pour the batter over the cherries and almonds in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the clafoutis is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the clafoutis to cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving, if desired.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

Calories: 224
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0.1g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 49mg
Potassium: 222mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 25g
Vitamin A: 225IU
Vitamin C: 4mg
Calcium: 47mg
Iron: 1mg

The History of Cherry Clafoutis

The name “Clafoutis” comes from the French verb “clafir,” which means “to fill.” This is a perfect description of how the batter fills the cherries, creating a custard-like consistency. While cherries are the traditional fruit used, Clafoutis can be made with a variety of fruits such as pears, apples, or plums. However, the classic cherry version remains the most iconic.

The origins of Cherry Clafoutis date back to the 19th century, and it was originally served as a rustic dish. It was not considered a fancy dessert but rather a homey, everyday treat that farmers or villagers would prepare. Over time, it has become synonymous with French elegance and is often featured in upscale restaurants or served during special occasions.

The Basic Concept of Making Clafoutis

At its core, Cherry Clafoutis is similar to a flan or custard pie. It consists of a batter that is poured over fruit, and when baked, it forms a golden, slightly puffed-up crust with a creamy interior. The fruit itself is usually placed in the bottom of the dish, and the batter is poured over the top before baking.

The batter for Clafoutis is made with simple ingredients—eggs, flour, milk, sugar, and flavoring such as vanilla or almond extract. The batter is lightly sweetened to complement the tartness of the fruit, and sometimes a hint of almond or vanilla is added for an extra layer of flavor. As the dish bakes, the batter rises around the fruit, creating a custard-like texture that contrasts beautifully with the firm cherries.

Why Choose Cherry Clafoutis?

There are several reasons why Cherry Clafoutis has stood the test of time as one of France’s most beloved desserts.

Simplicity and Accessibility
Clafoutis is incredibly easy to make. Unlike other intricate French desserts that require precise measurements or advanced techniques, Cherry Clafoutis can be made with minimal effort. Its ingredients are simple and widely available, making it an accessible choice for home bakers. Furthermore, the recipe doesn’t require any special equipment, and you can prepare it in just a few simple steps.
Natural Sweetness of Fruit
Cherries are the star of this dessert, and their natural sweetness shines through in the finished product. Whether using sweet or tart cherries, the fruit adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the soft custard. The combination of the slightly chewy cherries and the smooth, rich batter creates a delightful texture contrast that elevates the dessert.
Versatility
While the classic recipe uses cherries, one of the great things about Clafoutis is its versatility. You can make it with other fruits such as blackberries, strawberries, peaches, or even apricots. This means that you can enjoy this dessert year-round, using whatever fruit is in season or available. Whether it’s summer and cherries are in abundance, or winter when you might use apples or pears, Clafoutis can be adapted to fit the season.
Elegant Yet Rustic
Clafoutis is the kind of dessert that feels both elegant and rustic at the same time. While it has the appearance of something sophisticated and refined, it’s made with basic ingredients and doesn’t require much preparation. This duality makes it perfect for both casual gatherings and more formal events. It’s a dessert that fits in well at a dinner party, yet it can also be enjoyed on a quiet afternoon at home.
Healthier Than Other Desserts
Compared to other rich, calorie-laden desserts, Cherry Clafoutis is relatively light. The batter is not overly sweet, and the fruit provides a natural source of vitamins and antioxidants. While it is still a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation, it is a better alternative to many other sugary treats.

How to Make the Perfect Cherry Clafoutis

The key to making the perfect Cherry Clafoutis lies in using the right fruit and ensuring the batter is not too thick. The cherries should be fresh and ripe for the best flavor, and they should be pitted to make them more enjoyable to eat. Some recipes call for leaving the pits in, but this can create a slightly bitter flavor when baked. It’s better to remove the pits for a sweeter taste and easier eating experience.

The batter should be smooth and thin, allowing it to coat the fruit evenly and bake into a soft, custard-like texture. It’s important to not overmix the batter, as doing so can result in a dense texture. A gentle stir to combine the ingredients is all that is needed.

Baking time is also crucial—Clafoutis should be baked just until golden and set in the middle. If overbaked, the custard can turn rubbery, so it’s important to monitor the dessert closely. Once the clafoutis is done, it should be allowed to cool slightly before serving, as this will help it set and allow the flavors to meld together.

Cultural Significance of Clafoutis in French Cuisine

In French culture, food is much more than sustenance—it’s a way to connect with others and celebrate life’s moments. Desserts like Cherry Clafoutis play a role in family gatherings, festive occasions, and holiday meals. In the Limousin region, Clafoutis is often served during the summer when cherries are in season, and families enjoy it as part of a leisurely meal.

Variations of Cherry Clafoutis

Although the traditional Cherry Clafoutis is made with fresh cherries, there are several variations of the dish. Some variations involve swapping the cherries for other fruits. For example, a peach Clafoutis or an apple version would give the dish a completely different taste. You could also try a mixed-berry version with blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

Serving and Storing Cherry Clafoutis

Cherry Clafoutis can be served warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. It is traditionally served without a crust, but some people like to dust the top with powdered sugar or a drizzle of heavy cream for extra richness. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of dessert wine such as Sauternes or Muscat.

Conclusion

Cherry Clafoutis is the perfect dessert for anyone looking to enjoy a light, elegant treat without all the fuss. Its rich, custard-like texture paired with the tart sweetness of fresh cherries creates a dish that is both simple and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, Clafoutis offers a stress-free way to create a delicious dessert that will impress your guests or simply satisfy your own sweet tooth.

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