Cherry Clafouti – A Classic French Dessert Made Simple

If you love elegant yet effortless desserts, Cherry Clafouti is about to become your new favorite. This classic French treat is a delicate fusion of custard and cake, studded with ripe, juicy cherries that sink slightly into the batter as it bakes. The result is a lightly sweet, tender, and slightly wobbly dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Originating in the Limousin region of France, clafouti is traditionally made with black cherries, which give a subtle tartness that balances the sweet, eggy custard. While it looks impressive, clafouti is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weekday treats and special occasions.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes cherry clafouti so special, how to achieve a perfect bake, and creative ways to serve and enjoy this classic dessert.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Clafouti

1. Light and Elegant: Unlike heavy cakes, clafouti has a delicate, custardy texture that feels indulgent without being overly rich.

2. Vibrant Flavor: The natural sweetness and slight tartness of cherries shine, enhanced by a touch of vanilla and almond extract.

3. Easy to Make: No special equipment is required—just a bowl, whisk, and baking dish.

4. Versatile Serving: Delicious warm from the oven, cooled to room temperature, or lightly dusted with powdered sugar for a refined finish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• 2 cups pitted fresh or frozen cherries
• Butter for greasing the pan
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish with butter and lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth. Gradually sift in flour and salt, whisking until just combined. The batter should be slightly thinner than cake batter—almost like a pancake batter.

3. Arrange Cherries
Evenly spread the pitted cherries across the prepared baking dish. For a classic presentation, place the cherries cut side up, so they sink partially as the custard bakes.

4. Pour and Bake
Pour the batter over the cherries and gently shake the pan to distribute the cherries evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

5. Cool and Serve
Let the clafouti cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or lightly chilled. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Classic Style: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Elegant Dessert: Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refined look.

Brunch Favorite: Include on a brunch table alongside fresh fruit, pastries, and yogurt.

Simple Snack: Enjoy a slice on its own with a cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon treat.

Variations and Add-Ins

• Almond Clafouti: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for extra crunch.
• Mixed Berry: Substitute or combine cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
• Chocolate Cherry: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Tips for Perfect Clafouti

• Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Cherries: Their natural juiciness is key to flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overbake: The custard should be slightly wobbly in the center; it firms as it cools.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and milk at room temperature help create a smooth, even custard.
• Serve Fresh: Clafouti is best enjoyed the same day it’s baked, though it can be refrigerated and lightly warmed later.

Why Cherry Clafouti Belongs in Your Recipe Box

Cherry Clafouti is the ultimate combination of simplicity and elegance. With minimal ingredients, effortless preparation, and a beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for weekday indulgences, weekend brunches, or even dinner party desserts. Its light, custardy texture and vibrant cherry flavor make it a standout treat that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this dessert delivers stunning results with minimal effort. Grab your mixing bowl and cherries, and enjoy a slice of French-inspired perfection! can create a beautiful dessert that impresses every time. Enjoy it warm from the oven or chilled for a refreshing treat.