A Taste of France: Blackberry Clafoutis Recipe

by Jon Henry

Blackberries are a summertime treasure, bursting with juicy sweetness and a vibrant color. But what if you could elevate them beyond a simple bowl of fruit? Enter the clafoutis, a delightful French dessert that transforms fresh berries into a decadent custard tart.

This blog post unveils the secrets of blackberry clafoutis, guiding you through the recipe and offering tips for achieving the perfect balance of creamy batter and juicy fruit.

Why You'll Love Blackberry Clafoutis:

  • Simple Elegance: Clafoutis boasts a rustic charm, yet requires minimal ingredients and effort.
  • Berry Bliss: Fresh blackberries take center stage, their sweetness singing in harmony with the creamy custard.
  • Versatile Dessert: Clafoutis is perfect for a casual brunch, an intimate dinner party, or a satisfying afternoon treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk or a combination of milk and cream for extra richness)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • 2 ½ cups fresh blackberries
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Whipped cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Get your oven nice and hot at 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare the Pan: Grease a baking dish (ideally an 8-inch square or pie plate) to prevent sticking.

  3. Dry Ingredients First: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.

  4. Whisk Up the Wet Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) until well combined.

  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough clafoutis.

  6. Star of the Show: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Gently scatter the fresh blackberries evenly over the top.

  7. Bake to Custard Perfection: Pop the clafoutis into the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not batter.

  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the clafoutis from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

  9. The Finishing Touches: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch and serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream (optional).

Tips for the Perfect Clafoutis:

  • Fresh is Best: Use ripe but not mushy blackberries for the most flavor and texture.
  • Room Temperature Matters: Take your eggs and milk out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
  • Don't Overbake: A slightly jiggly center is what you're aiming for. The clafoutis will continue to set as it cools.
  • Get Creative: Substitute other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or cherries for a taste variation.
  • Boozy Twist: For an adult-friendly dessert, add a tablespoon of liqueur like kirsch or brandy to the batter.

With its simple elegance and delightful flavors, blackberry clafoutis is sure to become a new favorite dessert. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience a taste of France in your own kitchen!

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