Cherry Clafoutis Recipe with a Soft Custard Centre

Name: Cherry Clafoutis Recipe with a Soft Custard Centre
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 300 g pitted cherries, fresh or thawed; 100 g granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla sugar or extract; 1/4 tsp fine salt; 3 whole large eggs; 360 ml whole milk; 95 g all-purpose flour; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp butter, for dish; 1 tbsp icing sugar, optional

A French-style cherry clafoutis with a tender baked custard and golden edges.

By Hez ArslanUpdated October 5, 2026

Total 55 minMakes 6 servings

Jump to Recipe

Cherry clafoutis is a simple baked French dessert with fruit set in a lightly sweet custard batter. The source lists cherries, eggs, milk and flour but omits the method; this version follows a standard clafoutis sequence and clearly notes the added method. Pit cherries for easier serving, whisk the batter smooth and bake until puffed and just set in the centre. The texture is softer than cake and will settle as it cools. Serve slightly warm with a light dusting of icing sugar. Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a 23 cm baking dish and arrange pitted cherries in one layer. Whisk sugar, vanilla, salt and eggs until smooth. Whisk in milk, then flour until no lumps remain.

Cherry Clafoutis Recipe with a Soft Custard Centre

How to tell when it is ready

Edges are golden and centre is just set with a gentle wobble.

Tips

Pit cherries for easy serving.
Whisk flour in gradually to avoid lumps.
Do not overbake; the custard sets as it cools.
Let the clafoutis rest before slicing.

Troubleshooting

If the mixture is too thick, add liquid a little at a time.
If it cooks unevenly, reduce the heat and stir gently.

Substitutions

Use a suitable low-sodium broth if preferred.
Use a similar neutral oil for cooking.

Variations

Adjust herbs and seasoning to taste.
Add a little chilli for extra warmth.

Serving suggestions

Serve slightly warm.
Add crème fraîche.
Pair with black tea.
Offer a few fresh cherries.

Make ahead

Measure ingredients ahead and finish cooking shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Contains wheat, egg and milk. Pit cherries before serving, especially for children.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this ahead?

Prepare components in advance and refrigerate promptly.

How should I store cherry clafoutis?

Refrigerate in a covered container within 2 hours and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.

About the author

Hez Arslan

Hez Arslan owns feastdelights.com and also writes practical recipes for everyday home cooking, from familiar Ukrainian dishes to meals inspired by kitchens around the world. His clear, step-by-step guidance helps home cooks approach each recipe with confidence.

Cherry Clafoutis Recipe with a Soft Custard Centre