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History:
Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert originating from the Limousin region. The name “Clafoutis” comes from the Occitan dialect word “clafotís,” which means “to fill” or “to cover.” This rustic dessert is renowned for its simplicity and deliciousness, typically made with cherries (often left unpitted to enhance flavor) embedded in a custard-like batter.

Traditionally, Clafoutis was made with black cherries, but today, variations abound with other fruits such as plums, berries, or even apples. The dish’s roots are deeply embedded in French culinary tradition, celebrated for its humble yet delightful combination of seasonal fruits and basic pantry ingredients.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cherries (pitted or unpitted, depending on preference)
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a medium-sized baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Rinse the cherries and arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the milk, granulated sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  4. Pour the batter over the cherries in the baking dish.
  5. Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the Clafoutis is puffed and golden brown around the edges. It should be slightly jiggly in the center but set.
  6. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Clafoutis is best served warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors of the fruit and custard to meld together beautifully. It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed as a light ending to a meal or even as a sweet treat with afternoon tea or coffee.

The charm of Clafoutis lies in its simplicity—capturing the essence of seasonal fruits in a comforting, custardy batter. Whether you stick with the traditional cherry version or explore different fruit variations, Clafoutis remains a beloved classic in French cuisine, cherished for its rustic appeal and delightful taste.

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