Sensational Summer Strawberries! Strawberry "Clafoutis" (Custard Bakes

Cover Jacques Pepin's Strawberry Clafoutis Verdict Good, but not great. I (736x981)

Table of Contents

• What is Clafoutis?
• Ingredients
• Recipe
• Tips for Making the Perfect Clafoutis
• Serving Suggestions

What is Clafoutis?

Clafoutis is a French dessert that originated in the Limousin region of France. It is traditionally made with cherries, but can also be made with other fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. The dessert is essentially a baked custard with fruit and a crispy top layer. It is perfect for a summer dessert or a weekend brunch.

Where did Clafoutis Originate?

Clafoutis originated in the Limousin region of France. It is said that the dessert was originally made with black cherries, which are abundant in the region. The name "clafoutis" comes from the Occitan word "clafir," which means to fill. The dessert was traditionally made with the pits left in the cherries, as it was believed that the pits help to enhance the flavor of the dish. However, it is now more common to remove the pits before baking.

What is the Texture of Clafoutis?

Clafoutis has a custard-like texture with a crispy top layer. The texture is similar to a flan or a quiche, but the fruit adds a sweet and juicy element to the dish. The dessert is usually served warm and can be eaten with a spoon or cut into slices.

What are the Different Variations of Clafoutis?

Clafoutis can be made with a variety of fruits, such as cherries, strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. Some recipes call for the addition of nuts, such as almonds, or spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Clafoutis can also be made with chocolate or other flavorings, such as vanilla or orange zest.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Recipe

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter.
3. Arrange the halved strawberries in the bottom of the dish.
4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs until light and frothy.
5. Add the flour, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and melted butter.
6. Whisk until well combined.
7. Pour the mixture over the strawberries in the baking dish.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
10. Sift confectioners' sugar over the top of the clafoutis.
11. Serve warm.

Tips for Making the Perfect Clafoutis

• Be sure to thoroughly grease your baking dish with butter to prevent the clafoutis from sticking.
• Allow the clafoutis to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the custard will continue to set as it cools.
• For a smoother texture, blend the batter in a blender or food processor before pouring it over the fruit.
• Experiment with different fruits and flavorings to find your favorite variation of clafoutis.

Serving Suggestions

Clafoutis is best served warm with a dusting of confectioners' sugar. It can be served as a dessert or as a brunch dish. Clafoutis pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Fresh Strawberry Clafoutis is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The custard-like texture and sweet, juicy fruit make it a crowd-pleaser, and the dish can be easily customized with different fruits and flavorings. By following these simple tips and using fresh, high-quality ingredients, you can create the perfect clafoutis every time.