If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that feels both elegant and homey at the same time, the Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is the perfect answer. Imagine juicy, sweet cherries nestled in a tender, custardy batter, baked until golden and slightly puffed. This French-inspired treat is delightfully simple yet indulgently satisfying, combining fresh fruit with a creamy texture that’s as inviting as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a casual weekend brunch or a charming dinner party finale, this recipe always brings smiles and warm compliments.

A round cherry clafoutis with a golden, slightly browned top layer studded with dark red cherries, dusted with a light layer of powdered sugar. The middle layer is creamy and pale yellow, visible where a slice has been removed. It is served in a white ceramic pie dish that contrasts with the red cherries and golden crust. The dish sits on a cloth over a white marbled surface, with some fresh cherries scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cherry Clafoutis Recipe lies in its straightforward list of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role — the cherries add juicy sweetness and vibrant color, the eggs and milk create a silky custard, and the touch of vanilla and optional rum bring a subtle depth that elevates every bite.

1 Tbsp unsalted butter: Essential for greasing the pan, ensuring your clafoutis doesn’t stick and develops a lovely golden crust.
3 cups sweet cherries: Fresh, stemmed, and pitted cherries are the star, offering natural sweetness and juicy bursts of flavor.
1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess to the batter, making your clafoutis smooth and rich.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just enough to balance the tartness of the cherries.
3 large eggs: Provide structure and a custard-like texture that holds everything together beautifully.
1 Tbsp rum, kirsch, or Cognac (optional): A little boozy kick that complements the cherries perfectly, but you can swap with an extra teaspoon of vanilla if you prefer.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma and depth to the batter.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Just enough to give the clafoutis some body without making it cakey.
1/8 tsp fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and giving the dish a subtle lift.
Confectioners sugar for dusting: A finishing touch that adds a pretty, delicate sweetness on top.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: For making the whipped cream to serve alongside — rich, fluffy, and dreamy.
2 Tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetening the whipped cream gently so it pairs beautifully with the clafoutis.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the whipped cream with an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Cherry Clafoutis Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

First things first — preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and position the rack right in the center. Generously grease your 9-inch pie pan with the butter so that the clafoutis has a non-stick surface and gets that nice golden edge. Once the pan is ready, scatter the pitted cherries evenly across the bottom. This will ensure that every bite has that juicy, fruity goodness.

Step 2: Blend the Batter

To create the perfect, smooth batter, toss the milk, sugar, eggs, rum or extra vanilla, vanilla extract, flour, and salt into a blender. Blend on high speed for about a minute until the mixture is silky and lump-free. This step is crucial for that signature custardy texture that defines the Cherry Clafoutis Recipe.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Gently pour the batter over the cherries in the pan, then give the pan a small jolt or two to help the liquid settle evenly around the fruit. Pop your pan in the oven and bake for about 50 to 55 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The gentle puffing tells you it’s perfectly cooked and delightfully airy on top.

Step 4: Cool and Dust

Once out of the oven, give your clafoutis 20 minutes to cool slightly—this resting time helps it set up just right. Before serving, dust generously with confectioners sugar to add a touch of sweetness and an elegant look. This simple step brings your Cherry Clafoutis Recipe to a stunning finish.

Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream

While the clafoutis cools, whip up the cream for an irresistible topping. In a bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until soft to medium-stiff peaks form. This luscious whipped cream is the perfect counterpoint to the warm, fruity clafoutis, adding a creamy, dreamy finish.

How to Serve Cherry Clafoutis Recipe

A close-up of one slice of pie on a white plate sitting on a white marbled texture. The pie has three main layers: the bottom is a firm, pale yellow custard base; the middle layer is filled with whole, dark red cherries with a slightly shiny texture; the top layer is a crumbly, golden-brown crust. On top of the pie slice is a large, fluffy mound of white whipped cream with soft peaks. A silver fork rests on the plate near the pie. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar is beautiful and traditional, but feel free to jazz it up with fresh mint leaves or a few whole cherries on top for a pop of color and extra charm. The whipped cream isn’t just an afterthought; dollops of it elevate each slice to something truly special.

Side Dishes

This clafoutis shines as a dessert on its own but it also pairs wonderfully with a light side salad if served as a brunch item, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a cold, creamy contrast. Fresh berries or a simple fruit compote can add an additional layer of freshness and complexity.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve individual portions in ramekins for a cute, personalized touch? You can also drizzle a little honey or a berry coulis over the top for a burst of color and sweetness. For a rustic look, serve it straight from the pan with a scattering of edible flowers or a sprinkle of crushed toasted almonds for some crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cherry Clafoutis Recipe can be stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it has fully cooled before covering to prevent sogginess. When ready to enjoy, it’s a treat that tastes just as good chilled or gently warmed.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, clafoutis freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole pan tightly with plastic wrap and then foil before placing in the freezer. This preserves its delicate texture, though it’s best enjoyed within one month.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm slices in a 325-degree oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid the microwave to keep the lovely custard texture intact, allowing it to gently come back to life without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly when fresh ones are out of season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid that could affect the batter’s consistency.

Is it necessary to pit the cherries?

Yes, pitting is essential for a pleasant eating experience and to prevent the clafoutis from having a bitter note. Plus, it makes the dessert much easier to slice and serve.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitutions like almond or oat milk and coconut cream for whipping can work, but the texture will be slightly different. Using plant-based ingredients often results in a lighter, less custard-like clafoutis.

What’s the best pan to use for this recipe?

A 9-inch pie pan is perfect because its shallow depth helps the batter bake evenly. Glass, ceramic, or metal pans all work well, but make sure it’s oven-safe and greased well.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge, but it’s best to bake it fresh to get that lovely puff and golden top. Avoid blending too far ahead because the flour can settle and thicken the batter.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Clafoutis Recipe is truly a joy to make and a delight to eat. Its simple ingredients come together in a way that feels both sophisticated and comforting, making it a standout in your dessert repertoire. So go ahead, gather those fresh cherries, dust off your pie pan, and dive into this luscious French classic — your friends and family will thank you!

Cherry Clafoutis Recipe