For a delightful dessert that sings with the flavors of summer, let's dive into the classic French delight: clafoutis. Bursting with the lusciousness of cherries, this dessert is a delightful blend of a flan's smoothness and the Dutch baby pancake's airy texture.
Before we delve into the recipe, let's prepare our star ingredient – cherries. Give them a thorough wash under cold water to ensure they're pristine. Remove the stems meticulously for a polished look and taste. While tradition suggests leaving the pits for an almond essence, pitting them ensures an easier, tooth-friendly experience. Toss the cherries in a touch of sugar, adjusting to their natural sweetness.
Moving on to the batter, combine whole milk, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, a pinch of sea salt, and a dash of vanilla extract in a bowl. Incorporate four large eggs and an extra yolk for richness, ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Now, onto the baking vessel – a tart-style pan, casserole dish, or cast-iron skillet will work wonders. Grease it generously with unsalted butter for that perfect golden crust. Arrange the sugared cherries evenly in the pan before gently pouring in the batter, which will rise slightly while baking.
Slide this beauty into a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C) and let it bake for about 40 minutes until the edges turn a glorious golden brown, and the center sets, akin to a flan's finish. Once done, let it cool on a rack for 20-25 minutes – the wait is worth the delight ahead.
To serve, dust the clafoutis with a gentle snowfall of powdered sugar, accentuating its allure. Though scooping it out straight from the pan is acceptable, slicing it exquisitely showcases the cherries' arrangement.
This clafoutis is best enjoyed warm, radiating the essence of fresh cherries and the harmonious blend of its simple yet elegant ingredients. It's a testament to the art of homemade goodness, promising a taste that surpasses expectations.
Feel free to personalize it further, exploring different fruit combinations or infusing your favorite flavors into the batter. Experiment, enjoy, and savor every delightful bite of this charming French creation!
