Cherry Mini-Clafoutis Offers a Simple Taste of Cherry Season

Cherry season is a good time to enjoy simple desserts that let fresh fruit shine. Mini-clafoutis are an easy way to turn ripe cherries into a warm, lightly sweet treat that works well after dinner or as part of a summer brunch.

Clafoutis is a baked French-style dessert made with fruit and a smooth, custard-like batter. This version is prepared in two small ramekins, making it a good recipe for two.

Ingredients

Servings: 2

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup flour
• ¾ cup milk
• Powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Butter two small ramekins.
2. Divide the cherries between the two ramekins.
3. Whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Add the flour and mix. Add the milk gradually, stirring until the batter is smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the cherries and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the surface is golden brown.
5. Let cool, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and garnish with a few whole cherries before serving.

The result is a dessert that is soft, fruity, and elegant without being complicated. For the best flavor, use fresh seasonal cherries that are ripe but still firm. Serve warm or at room temperature