This Classic French Cherry Clafoutis is a timeless dessert featuring juicy sweet cherries baked in a rich, silky vanilla custard with perfectly golden edges. Simple enough for beginners yet elegant enough for entertaining, this traditional French favorite comes together with pantry staples and fresh fruit. Light, creamy, and delicately sweet, it’s the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, brunches, afternoon coffee, or a cozy family treat. Dust with powdered sugar and enjoy it warm or chilled for an authentic taste of France.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🍒 Authentic French dessert with minimal effort.
🍒 Made with simple pantry ingredients.
🍒 Soft, creamy custard with juicy cherries in every bite.
🍒 Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or afternoon tea.
🍒 Beautiful presentation with very little work.
🍒 Ready in about one hour.
🍒 Delicious served warm or cold.
🍒 Great for entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Clafoutis

1 lb (450 g) fresh sweet cherries, pitted
3 large eggs
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1¼ cups (300 ml) whole milk
½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
¾ cup (95 g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Pinch of salt
Butter for greasing the baking dish

For Serving

Powdered sugar
Fresh cherries
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Cherries

Fresh sweet cherries provide the best flavor and texture. Dark cherries create a richer, more intense fruit flavor.

Whole Milk & Heavy Cream

Using both creates an incredibly silky custard while keeping the dessert light.

Almond Extract

Traditional French clafoutis often includes a hint of almond flavor, which pairs beautifully with cherries.

Vanilla

Pure vanilla extract adds warmth and enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit.

Kitchen Equipment

9-inch ceramic baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Fine sieve for powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9-inch ceramic baking dish generously.

Step 2

Arrange the pitted cherries evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth and slightly pale.

Step 4

Add the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), whole milk, heavy cream, melted butter, and salt. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 5

Gradually add the flour while whisking continuously until the batter becomes completely smooth with no lumps.

Step 6

Pour the custard batter gently over the cherries.

Step 7

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed, lightly golden, and just set in the center.

Step 8

Allow it to cool for about 10–15 minutes before dusting generously with powdered sugar.

Serve warm or chilled.

Expert Tips

Use ripe, sweet cherries for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter; whisk just until smooth.
Let the clafoutis rest before slicing so the custard sets properly.
A ceramic baking dish gives the best texture.
Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.

Variations

Add raspberries or blueberries.
Replace cherries with sliced peaches or apricots.
Add lemon zest for a brighter flavor.
Sprinkle sliced almonds before baking.
Serve with vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream.

What to Serve With Cherry Clafoutis

This elegant dessert pairs beautifully with:

Fresh whipped cream
Vanilla ice cream
Crème fraîche
Espresso
Cappuccino
Fresh berries
Mint leaves
Hot tea

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serve chilled or gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Freezing is not recommended, as the custard texture may change after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes. Thaw and drain them well before baking to avoid excess moisture.

Do I have to pit the cherries?

Traditional French clafoutis uses whole cherries, but pitted cherries are easier and safer to eat.

Why did my clafoutis sink?

This is completely normal. Clafoutis puffs while baking and settles slightly as it cools.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. It tastes wonderful chilled the next day.

Is clafoutis served warm or cold?

Both are delicious. Many people enjoy it slightly warm, while others prefer it chilled.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a classic French dessert that’s both elegant and effortless, this Classic French Cherry Clafoutis is sure to become a favorite. With its silky vanilla custard, juicy cherries, and beautifully golden top, it’s the perfect recipe for family dinners, brunches, holidays, or summer celebrations. Simple ingredients and timeless flavors come together to create a dessert that’s as impressive as it is comforting. Enjoy every delicious bite! ❤️