Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis

Name: Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love this Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis recipe! It combines the rich, decadent flavor of chocolate with the sweet, tartness of fresh cherries. Every time I make this dessert, it transports me back to childhood moments spent picking cherries with my family. The batter is so simple, and I enjoy how it transforms into a creamy, custard-like texture during baking. If you’re looking to impress your guests or just want a delightful treat, this clafoutis will become your go-to dessert. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:18:02.646Z

Making this Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis is always a nostalgic experience for me. The way the chocolate melds perfectly with the juicy cherries creates a delightful contrast of flavors that I can’t resist. I fondly recall the first time I paired cherries with chocolate and realized how beautifully they complement each other. Incorporating quality dark chocolate adds depth, while fresh cherries contribute a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.

During my experiments with this recipe, I discovered that using a combination of whole eggs and egg yolks gives the clafoutis its rich, custardy texture. I often sprinkle a little cocoa powder on top before serving, which intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds an inviting look to the dish. Trust me, it's a worthwhile detail that will wow your taste buds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh cherries
Creamy custard-like texture that is simply irresistible
Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

In this Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating its distinctive flavor and texture. The fresh cherries provide a natural sweetness and a burst of tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the deep, rich flavor of unsweetened cocoa powder. This combination not only elevates the dessert but also enhances the overall sensory experience. The eggs contribute to the custard-like texture, binding the ingredients while allowing for a gentle puffing during baking.

Milk and all-purpose flour are vital for achieving the clafoutis' signature creamy consistency. The milk adds moisture and richness, while the flour helps create structure. When sifting the flour into the batter, ensure not to overmix. This will prevent the gluten from developing too much, which could result in a dense final product. Instead, mix just until you see no dry flour left, and allow the batter to incorporate gently with the other ingredients.

Baking Tips for Success

For a perfectly baked clafoutis, it's essential to keep an eye on the baking time. Most recipes suggest around 35 to 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but ovens can vary significantly. Begin checking after 30 minutes; the clafoutis should look puffed and slightly golden at the edges, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the edges are browning too quickly, gently cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while allowing the center to finish baking.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of almond extract along with the vanilla for an extra layer of complexity. If you don’t have an oven-safe pie dish, a cast-iron skillet or a rectangular baking dish works just as well, but remember to adjust the baking time accordingly. A wider, shallower dish will bake faster than a deeper one, so keep that in mind.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delightful clafoutis:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar for dusting

Once you have these ingredients, you'll be ready to create your Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis!

Instructions

Let’s assemble the clafoutis step by step:

Prepare the cherries

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and pit the cherries, then slice them in half and set aside.

Make the batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk and vanilla extract, followed by the melted butter. Finally, sift in the flour and mix until just combined.

Combine and bake

Grease a pie dish with butter and arrange the cherries evenly at the bottom. Pour the batter over the cherries, ensuring they are well covered. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is set and slightly puffed.

Serve

Allow the clafoutis to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature, enjoying the delightful combination of chocolate and cherries.

Your Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a splash of almond extract to the batter, which pairs wonderfully with the cherries. You can also experiment with different fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a twist on the classic recipe.

Storing Your Clafoutis

If you have leftovers, storing your Chocolate Cherry Clafoutis properly is key to maintaining its texture and flavor. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, I recommend reheating it in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the creamy texture while warming it through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the clafoutis. After it has cooled, slice it into portions and wrap each piece individually before placing them in an airtight container. This allows you to thaw only what you need. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as described. Keep in mind that while freezing won't change the flavor much, the texture may be slightly different upon reheating.

Creative Variations

While cherries are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Raspberries, blueberries, or sliced peaches can also work beautifully, providing their unique flavors and characteristics. When substituting fruits, ensure they are of similar moisture content to maintain the structure of the clafoutis. If you want to make it a bit more decadent, sprinkling dark chocolate chips throughout the batter can provide delightful melted pockets of chocolate in every bite.

For a gluten-free version, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Just remember that almond flour may result in a denser texture, so adjust the amount slightly. Additionally, using a sweetener like coconut sugar can give a different flavor profile, which might be particularly appealing if you're aiming for a more wholesome dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and combine it with the cherries a few hours in advance. Just bake it shortly before serving for the best results.

→ What can I serve with clafoutis?

Clafoutis is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of crème fraîche for added indulgence.