Peach Clafoutis Recipe: Classic French Dessert

Peach Clafoutis Recipe: Classic French Dessert

ByTastymiddles

Peach Clafoutis: A Classic French Dessert

Peach Clafoutis is a quintessential French dessert that seamlessly combines simplicity with elegance. Originally from the Limousin region of France, where it was traditionally made with local cherries, this dessert has evolved over the years to include a variety of fruits. The peach version is particularly loved for its delicate balance of flavors and its ability to highlight the natural sweetness of fresh, ripe peaches.

The Essence of Clafoutis

The magic of clafoutis lies in its unique texture. The batter—a blend of eggs, milk, flour, and sugar—bakes into a custard-like consistency, enveloping the fruit in a soft and creamy embrace. This transformation is what makes clafoutis such a special treat—it combines the tender, juicy quality of fruit with the rich, velvety texture of baked custard.

Another reason for the popularity of peach clafoutis is its versatility. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect choice for various occasions. Whether as a comforting dessert after a family dinner, a sweet addition to a brunch spread, or a delightful treat at a holiday gathering, Peach Clafoutis brings a touch of French sophistication to any table. Its preparation is simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet it delivers a dish that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients

For the fruit:

  • 4 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the batter:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round baking dish or pie dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the peaches by peeling, pitting, and slicing them into thin wedges. In a medium bowl, toss the peach slices with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to macerate and release their juices.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, prepare the batter. Whisk together 3 large eggs until well beaten. Add 1 cup of whole milk and continue whisking until fully combined. Gradually sift in ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons melted butter until smooth.

Step 4: Arrange the peach slices evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the batter over the peaches, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The clafoutis will settle slightly as it cools.

Cooking Notes

  • Clafoutis is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. As it cools, it will slightly deflate and develop a delightful custard-like texture.
  • If you prefer a more pronounced peach flavor, you can lightly sauté the peach slices in a bit of butter before adding them to the batter.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Presentation:

  • Powdered Sugar Dusting: Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for a simple yet elegant touch.
  • Whipped Cream: Serve individual portions with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the creamy custard.

Gourmet Touches:

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.
  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with rich caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness and complexity.

Fruits & Nuts:

  • Fresh Fruit Garnish: Add extra peach slices, berries, or raspberries for added freshness and color.
  • Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts over the clafoutis for a crunchy contrast.

Seasonal & Festive Twists:

  • Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint for a refreshing, sophisticated touch.
  • Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches while adding a beautiful shine.

Brunch or Light Dessert:

  • With a Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a well-balanced meal.
  • With Tea or Coffee: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.

Individual Servings:

  • Mini Clafoutis: Bake in individual ramekins for an elegant dinner party presentation.
  • Mason Jars: Serve in mason jars for a charming and portable dessert option.

Tips

✔ Choose Ripe Peaches: Use ripe but firm peaches for the best texture and flavor. Overripe peaches may become too mushy during baking.
✔ Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your peaches, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the batter or on the fruit.
✔ Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix or almond flour.
✔ Make Ahead: Clafoutis can be made a day in advance and gently reheated before serving.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: ~250
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sodium: 150mg

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?
Yes! Make sure to thoroughly thaw and drain excess liquid before using them to prevent the clafoutis from becoming too watery. You may also need to slightly increase the sugar if the frozen peaches are less sweet than fresh ones.

2. Can I make peach clafoutis ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake it a day in advance, let it cool completely, then cover and store it at room temperature. To reheat, place it in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. It can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

3. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! While traditional clafoutis is made with cherries, you can experiment with raspberries, blueberries, or even plums. If using fruits with higher moisture content, adjust the sugar and flour accordingly.

4. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to achieve a similar texture.

5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Before serving, bring to room temperature or reheat gently in the oven.

6. Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes! Substitute whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any non-dairy alternative. Replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. These changes may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

7. Why didn’t my clafoutis puff up?
If your clafoutis didn’t puff as expected, it may be due to over-mixing the batter, an oven temperature that’s too low, or an overly thin batter. Ensure you mix just until combined, bake at the correct temperature, and avoid adding too much fruit.

8. Can I add spices or flavors to the batter?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract can enhance the flavor of your peach clafoutis. Start with small amounts to ensure a balanced taste.

Conclusion

Peach Clafoutis is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that celebrates the simplicity and elegance of French cuisine. With its custard-like texture and the natural sweetness of peaches, this dish is both comforting and refined. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this classic French treat is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer.

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