Cherry Almond Clafoutis – SouthernRambles

Cherry Almond Clafoutis is a classic French baked custard that sits somewhere between a pancake, a flan, and a soft cake. This version highlights juicy cherries suspended in a lightly sweet, vanilla-almond batter that puffs beautifully in the oven before settling into a creamy, sliceable dessert. The final result is rustic, elegant, and deeply comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic French Technique – Uses a simple custard batter that relies on eggs and milk rather than heavy fats.
Naturally Balanced Sweetness – Cherries provide natural acidity that balances the sugar and almond notes.
Minimal Ingredients – Pantry staples come together into a refined dessert with very little effort.
Versatile Serving Options – Delicious warm, room temperature, or chilled.
Elegant Yet Rustic – Perfectly imperfect presentation that feels homemade and sophisticated.
Great for Entertaining – One-dish dessert that slices cleanly and serves a crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Clafoutis

2 cups fresh cherries, pitted – Provide juiciness, sweetness, and the signature flavor of the dish.
3 large eggs – Form the custard structure and help the clafoutis puff during baking.
1 cup whole milk – Creates a creamy, tender custard base.
½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and encourages light caramelization.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and rounds out the fruit flavor.
¼ teaspoon almond extract – Intensifies the natural almond notes found in cherries.
½ cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure so the custard sets without becoming dense.
¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
¼ cup sliced almonds – Adds texture and reinforces the almond profile.
Butter, for greasing – Prevents sticking and adds subtle richness to the edges.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9-inch round or square baking dish to prevent sticking and promote browning.

Prepare the Cherries

Wash and pit the cherries, slicing them in half if desired, then arrange them evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.

Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and fully emulsified.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually whisk in the flour and salt until just combined, forming a thin, pourable batter without lumps.

Assemble the Clafoutis

Pour the batter evenly over the cherries, ensuring the fruit is well distributed throughout the dish.

Add Almond Topping

Sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the surface to add texture and light toasting during baking.

Bake Until Set

Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the clafoutis is puffed, lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool Slightly Before Serving

Allow the clafoutis to cool for about 10 minutes so it can set fully before slicing.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Expect Deflation – Clafoutis will puff dramatically in the oven and settle as it cools; this is normal.
Cherry Juiciness Matters – Very ripe cherries release more liquid; avoid overcrowding the dish.
Do Not Overmix – Excess whisking after adding flour can lead to a rubbery texture.
Butter the Dish Well – Ensures clean slices and flavorful edges.
Almond Extract Is Potent – Measure carefully to avoid overpowering the dessert.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6–8 slices, depending on portion size
Calories: ~260 per serving (estimated, varies by portion size)

Perfect Pairings

Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream – Adds airiness and contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream – Melts into the warm custard beautifully.
Espresso or Coffee – Balances sweetness with bitterness.
Fresh Berries – Enhances fruit-forward flavors.

Ideal Occasions

Casual Dinner Parties – Elegant without being fussy.
Weekend Baking Projects – Simple yet rewarding.
Brunch Desserts – Light enough for daytime serving.
Seasonal Summer Menus – Best when cherries are at their peak.

Storage & Serving Tips

Room Temperature – Can sit out up to 4 hours once cooled.
Refrigeration – Store covered for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Warm gently in the oven at 300°F for best texture.
Chilled Option – Serve cold for a firmer, custard-like experience.

Creative Variations to Try

Apricot or Peach Clafoutis – Swap cherries for stone fruit.
Orange Zest Addition – Brightens the custard flavor.
Dairy-Free Version – Use full-fat almond milk for subtle nuttiness.
Gluten-Free Adaptation – Replace flour with almond flour for richer texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Clafoutis Too Wet – Likely underbaked or excess fruit juice.
Rubbery Texture – Batter may have been overmixed.
Burning Edges – Dish placed too high in the oven; lower rack next time.
Bland Flavor – Increase vanilla slightly or add citrus zest.

Why This Recipe Works

This clafoutis relies on the natural thickening power of eggs and flour to create a custard that sets gently while remaining tender. Whole milk adds richness without heaviness, and almond extract enhances the cherries’ inherent nuttiness. Baking at a moderate temperature allows the custard to puff evenly before settling into a creamy interior. At approximately 260 calories per serving, it delivers indulgence with restraint.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Almond Clafoutis is a timeless dessert that showcases simple ingredients through thoughtful technique. Its balance of fruit, custard, and subtle almond flavor makes it both comforting and refined. Naturally lower in fat than many baked desserts, it can be enjoyed as-is or paired with lighter toppings for a well-rounded finish.