Growing up, summer meant visiting my grandmother’s quaint little cottage in the countryside, where cherry trees lined the backyard. Every afternoon, we would pick the ripest cherries, their sweetness bursting with every bite. It was during one such summer that I discovered the magic of clafoutis—an elegant French dessert that beautifully combines the simplicity of custard with the vibrant flavors of fresh fruit. This wholesome version, enriched with almond flour and a hint of vanilla, brings back those cherished memories while packing in nutrition.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round pie dish or a similarly sized baking dish with a bit of coconut oil or butter.

In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, and sea salt, whisking them together until well blended. Set this mixture aside.

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Arrange the halved cherries evenly in the prepared pie dish. Pour the batter over the cherries, ensuring they are well covered.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Once baked, remove the clafoutis from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance.

Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of soft custard and juicy cherries that takes you back to those sun-soaked afternoons in the orchard.

This wholesome cherry and almond clafoutis not only brings joy to the table but also serves as a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the nourishment nature provides. Enjoy every bite!