Cherry clafoutis is a classic French dessert that beautifully marries the sweet juiciness of cherries with a luscious custard-like batter. This delightful treat hails from the Limousin region of France and is celebrated for its rustic charm and irresistible flavor. As the sun casts its warm embrace over the landscape, the arrival of summer brings with it the tantalizing sight of plump, juicy cherries adorning trees like vibrant jewels. These luscious fruits are the embodiment of the season’s bounty, offering a symphony of flavors that capture the essence of long, sun-kissed days and leisurely moments.

For the Clafoutis

• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 tablespoon of rum
• 1-1/2 teaspoons of vanilla
• 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• a pinch of salt
• 1 pound of sweet cherries, pitted

Preheat the oven to 375°F.  Butter a 10-inch deep-dish pie pan.  Beat the eggs and sugar in a medium bowl until frothy, about 2 minutes.  Add the milk, rum, & vanilla and beat until smooth.  Stir in the flour & salt.

Distribute the pitted cherries over the bottom of the pie pan.  Frozen cherries, thawed & patted dry, or canned cherries, drained & dried, can also be used.  In true French country tradition, raspberries & blackberries may be substituted with great success! Pour the batter over the cherries, and place the pie pan on a baking sheet.  Bake the clafouti for 10 minutes.  Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake until the top has puffed (it will sink on cooling) and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 35 minutes.  Cool for about 20 minutes before serving.

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Cherries, those delightful little orbs of flavor, are a true testament to the marvels of nature’s bounty. With their vibrant colors and irresistible taste, cherries have captivated human palates for centuries. From deep red Bing cherries to blush-hued Rainier cherries, each variety boasts its own unique taste and texture. As you bite into a perfectly ripe cherry, its succulent flesh bursts with sweetness, delivering a sensory experience that’s both refreshing and indulgent.

As a symbol of summer’s arrival, cherries bring a burst of color to orchards and farmers’ markets alike. Whether enjoyed straight from the tree or incorporated into culinary creations, cherries embody the essence of the warmer months, evoking memories of picnics, lazy afternoons, and the simple joys of life.

The history of cherries is as rich as their taste. With origins dating back to ancient civilizations, cherries have been admired and cherished for their flavors and potential health benefits. These fruits come in two main types: sweet cherries, celebrated for their luscious taste and versatility, and sour cherries, known for their tanginess that transforms into culinary magic when cooked. The origins of the clafoutis itself can be traced back several centuries, making it a dish steeped in history and tradition. The name “clafoutis” itself is believed to come from the Occitan dialect word “claufir,” which means to cover or fill. This references the practice of covering the fruit with batter before baking.

Historically, clafoutis was made with black cherries, which were abundant in the Limousin region during the summer months. The use of cherries in the dish remains one of its defining features, and while other fruits have been used in variations, the classic version is made with whole, unpitted cherries. The pits are said to impart a subtle almond-like flavor to the dessert.

Clafoutis was originally a simple dish enjoyed by farmers and villagers, using ingredients readily available in their surroundings. Over time, it gained popularity beyond the Limousin region and became a beloved dessert across France and beyond. One popular story about the history of clafoutis involves the French queen, Marguerite of Valois, who was fond of the dish and introduced it to the royal court during the 16th century. This story, though anecdotal, reflects the dessert’s growing popularity and its transition from a local specialty to a well-loved treat.

So, as you savor the simple pleasure of plucking cherries from a branch and indulging in their natural sweetness, remember that these seasonal gems are more than just fruits; they’re a fleeting reminder of the beauty of summer and the fleeting nature of the seasons. And keep in mind that today, clafoutis continues to hold a special place in French cuisine and has gained recognition worldwide for its simple elegance and comforting flavors. Whether enjoyed in a quaint countryside cafe or prepared in a home kitchen, clafoutis pays homage to its rustic origins while delighting modern palates with its timeless charm.