Description
Apricot Clafoutis is a classic French dessert featuring tender apricot quarters baked in a delicate, sweet custard batter. This recipe delivers a luscious, custardy treat with a hint of honey and vanilla, perfect for showcasing seasonal apricots in a simple yet elegant baked dish.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 1.1 to 1.5 lbs (500-700g) apricots, pitted and cut in quarters
Butter and Sweetener
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, divided and melted
- 1 Tablespoon honey
Custard Batter
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup (100g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- ⅔ cup (80g) all-purpose flour
- 2 ¾ teaspoons (20g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup + 1 Tablespoon (250 ml) milk
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease the bottom and sides of a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) rectangular baking dish or a 9-inch (23 cm) round pie dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Prepare apricots: If apricots are very ripe, place them directly into the greased baking dish. If they are firmer, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat, add the apricot quarters and honey, and cook gently while stirring often until the apricots are just tender but still intact. Transfer the cooked apricots to the baking dish.
- Mix eggs and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the 4 eggs and ½ cup sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract if using, and continue whisking to combine.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the egg mixture, whisking until fully incorporated.
- Add butter and milk: Pour in 1 tablespoon of melted butter into the batter, then slowly whisk in 1 cup plus 1 tablespoon of milk until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the batter evenly over the apricots in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the custard is set and golden around the edges.
- Cool and serve: Remove the clafoutis from the oven and let it cool slightly at room temperature before slicing and serving. This dessert is delightful served warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can use fresh or ripe apricots depending on your preference; cooking firmer apricots slightly helps soften them while preserving shape.
- The addition of vanilla extract is optional, but it adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor.
- Ensure the custard batter is well whisked for a smooth texture and even baking.
- To add a touch of elegance, dust the finished clafoutis with powdered sugar before serving.
- This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
