Imagine a dessert so enchanting that it transports you straight to the charming countryside of France with just one bite. The Berry Clafouti is not just a dessert; it's a magical culinary experience that effortlessly blends simplicity with sophistication. This rustic French classic transforms humble ingredients into a stunning, puffy masterpiece that will have your dinner guests swooning and asking for seconds (and thirds)!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh berries
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Creme fraiche for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the clafouti will bake evenly and rise properly.
- Prepare a 9-inch round baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the clafouti from sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of fresh berries. You can use a mix of berries like cherries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. If using larger fruits like cherries, consider pitting and halving them for even distribution.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 eggs until they are well beaten. This will help incorporate air into the mixture, giving the clafouti a light texture.
- Add 1 cup of milk to the beaten eggs and whisk until fully combined.
- In the same bowl, add 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk the mixture until smooth and free of lumps. The batter should be somewhat thin.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This layer will help the berries to suspend in the clafouti.
- Carefully scatter the fresh berries over the batter in the dish. Ensure they are distributed evenly for a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Pour the remaining batter over the berries, ensuring they are covered. The batter will rise around the berries as it bakes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the clafouti is puffed and golden brown around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the clafouti from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 10 minutes. It will deflate a bit as it cools.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar if desired, and accompanied by a generous dollop of crème fraîche for a creamy contrast to the sweet, fruity clafouti.
Tips
- Berry Selection is Key: Choose ripe, fresh berries at the peak of their season for maximum flavor. A mix of different berries can add complexity and visual appeal.
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother, more consistent batter.
- Don't Overmix: Whisk the batter just until combined to keep the texture light and airy.
- Timing is Everything: Watch your clafouti closely in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
- Serve Immediately: Clafouti is best enjoyed warm, when it's still slightly puffed and has that beautiful golden color.
- Crème Fraîche Hack: If you can't find crème fraîche, you can substitute with a mix of sour cream and heavy cream for a similar tangy, rich flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
