Name: Pear Clafoutis Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 eggs; 3 tbsp sugar; 2/3 cup whole milk; 1/3 cup all purpose flour (plain flour); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp lemon zest; 1 pinch salt; 2 pears (small-medium, just ripe); 1/2 tbsp butter (approx, to grease skillet)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 130 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels both elegant and effortlessly homey, this Pear Clafoutis Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine ripe, juicy pears nestled in a tender, custardy batter that’s lightly sweetened and baked until perfectly set—this French-inspired dish brings simple ingredients together in the most enchanting way. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated treat that’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for special occasions. Once you try this Pear Clafoutis Recipe, I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to desserts to share with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four sets of thinly sliced white pieces, each arranged in a fanned shape with layers overlapping. These fanned layers are placed in a circular pattern inside a dark pan, with each set pointing towards the center. The slices have a slightly shiny, smooth texture and are uniform in thickness. The background is a black pan with a shiny, slightly wet surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For this Pear Clafoutis Recipe, you only need a handful of basic ingredients, but each one plays an important role in delivering that luscious texture and delicate flavor. Gather these simple essentials to create a dessert that feels much fancier than it really is!

2 eggs: Eggs provide the rich, creamy custard base and help the clafoutis set beautifully.
3 tbsp sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the fresh pears.
2/3 cup whole milk: Makes the batter silky and tender, enhancing every bite.
1/3 cup all purpose flour (plain flour): Gives structure to the batter while keeping it light.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth with its fragrant flavor.
1/2 tsp lemon zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the sweetness perfectly.
1 pinch salt: Enhances all the flavors; a little salt is always magic in baking.
2 pears (small-medium, just ripe): The star of the dish—sweet, tender, and juicy pears bring fresh flavor and beautiful texture.
1/2 tbsp butter: For greasing the skillet to prevent sticking and add richness.

How to Make Pear Clafoutis Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Skillet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch cast iron skillet or a similar sized baking dish with butter. This helps to create a lovely crust around the edges and ensures your clafoutis doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Whisk the Batter

In a mixing bowl or using a handheld mixer, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is combined and slightly frothy. Then add the milk, flour, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, lump-free batter. This step is key to a silky, custardy texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Pears

Peel your pears, cut them in half, and carefully remove the core. Slice each half into thin pieces or wedges. Lay these slices in the bottom of your greased skillet in a visually pleasing way—arranging them in a fan shape looks beautiful but feel free to get creative here!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Slowly and carefully pour the batter over the arranged pear slices, making sure they stay evenly spread. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’re looking for a golden edge and a set center; it may puff up while baking but it will gently fall once cooled.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your Pear Clafoutis Recipe cool for a few minutes. It’s easiest to serve when slightly warm. For a final touch, dust with a little powdered sugar if you like for extra sweetness and a pretty finish.

How to Serve Pear Clafoutis Recipe

A round baked dish in a black cast iron skillet shows a golden-brown pancake base with a raised, slightly crispy edge. On top, there are eight slices of soft, light yellow pear arranged in a fan shape, overlapping slightly to cover the center. The entire dish is dusted lightly with white powdered sugar. Nearby, two whole yellow pears and a small blue and white plate holding a black powder sifter filled with powdered sugar sit on a purple and white patterned cloth, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The clafoutis shines on its own, but a simple dusting of confectioners’ sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate it effortlessly. Fresh mint leaves or a light drizzle of honey also add a fresh and elegant touch to the presentation.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish. You can also serve it alongside a cup of strong black coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a cozy, satisfying experience.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this Pear Clafoutis Recipe at a gathering, try baking it in individual ramekins for personal servings. Another fun idea is to layer fresh pear slices on top after baking for added texture contrast and a stunning look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover clafoutis covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It will remain moist and flavorful, making it a convenient dessert option to enjoy later.

Freezing

While clafoutis is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain its creamy texture.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers gently in a low oven or microwave for a minute or two. Avoid overheating, which can dry it out. A quick reheat restores that just-baked aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

FAQs

Can I use different fruits instead of pears?

Absolutely! Pear Clafoutis Recipe is versatile and works well with fruits like cherries, apples, or peaches. Just adjust the baking time if needed depending on the juiciness and size of the fruit.

Do I need a cast iron skillet?

No, any oven-safe baking dish about 8 inches in diameter will do. Cast iron gives even heat and a nice crust, but a ceramic or glass dish works just fine.

Is Pear Clafoutis Recipe gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure it’s suitable for baking.

Can I prepare the batter in advance?

You can mix the batter a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before pouring it over the pears and baking.

Should the pears be ripe or firm?

Choose pears that are ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape while baking. Overly soft pears may become mushy during the cooking process.

Final Thoughts

This Pear Clafoutis Recipe is truly a gem that epitomizes how simple ingredients can create something utterly special. It’s the kind of dessert that warms the heart and invites you to slow down and savor each bite. Whether you’re surprising someone special or treating yourself after a long day, don’t hesitate to try this recipe. Once you do, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your dessert repertoire!

Pear Clafoutis Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need