Cherry Basil Clafoutis Cake (A Fresh Twist on a French Classic)
This Cherry Basil Clafoutis Cake is a rustic French dessert that brings seasonal cherries into the spotlight. The batter is cake-like and rises beautifully around the fruit as it bakes, creating a buttery, golden crust. What makes this version stand out? Fresh basil ribbons scattered over the cherries add a surprising herbal note that balances the sweetness and gives it a garden-fresh twist. Serve it warm, dusted with powdered sugar or topped with whipped cream, and you have the perfect summer dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. Ideal for a casual dinner party or a sweet treat on the porch. Recipe courtesy of Lesli Sommerdorf.
Ingredients
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¾ cup whole milk
¾ to 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
10 leaves fresh basil, cut into thin ribbons
Powdered sugar or whipped cream, for garnish
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven and melt the butter.: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the butter in an 8x8-inch baking dish, then put it in the oven until the butter melts and becomes bubbly—about 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven and set aside.
2
Prepare the batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk and stir until just combined—don’t overmix.
3
Pour and swirl:
Pour the batter directly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to gently swirl the batter through the butter, pushing some into the corners without fully mixing.
4
Add cherries and basil: Evenly sprinkle the pitted cherries and basil ribbons over the top of the batter.
5
Bake to golden perfection.: Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
6
Serve and enjoy: Let cool slightly. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a generous dollop of whipped cream.
Tags:
#BasilDessert#CherryClafoutis#CherrySeason#EasyCakeRecipe#FarmToFork#FrenchDesserts#FreshIsBest#SeasonalFruit#SummerBakingCookingwithchefbryan
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