Apricot Clafoutis: A French Classic Dessert

Clafoutis with Apricots

Category: Desserts
Serves: 8

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter: Start by cracking the eggs into a mixing bowl. Add 100g of sugar to the eggs and whisk thoroughly. You can use a hand whisk or an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes light, fluffy, and has roughly doubled in volume. This process is key to achieving that airy texture typical of a clafoutis.

2. Add Flavor: Grate the zest of one lemon directly into the egg mixture. This will provide a refreshing citrus note that complements the sweetness of the apricots. Add a pinch of fine salt to balance the flavors.

3. Mix in Wet Ingredients: Pour in 200g of whole milk, making sure it’s not too cold. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and well-incorporated batter.

4. Prepare the Apricots: Wash the apricots under cold running water. Cut them in half, removing the pits, and set them aside.

5. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly butter your baking dish (a 9-inch round dish works well for this recipe). Sprinkle 30g of sugar inside the dish and gently shake it to coat the sides and bottom. This will help create a lovely golden crust around your clafoutis.

6. Arrange the Apricots: Arrange the apricot halves in a circular pattern in the prepared dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced. You can arrange them with the cut side up to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.

7. Add the Batter: Give the batter a quick stir to make sure everything is well-mixed, then pour it over the apricots, ensuring the fruit is well-covered.

8. Bake: Place the dish in a preheated static oven at 180°C (350°F). Bake for 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The clafoutis should puff up and turn beautifully golden in color.

9. Serve: Let the clafoutis cool for a few minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. If you like, dust with powdered sugar just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips:

• This recipe can also be made with other seasonal fruits like cherries, plums, or pears for a delicious variation.
• For a deeper flavor, you can soak the apricots in the brandy for a few hours before adding them to the dish, giving the dessert a rich, aromatic undertone.

Enjoy your clafoutis with apricots—a simple yet luxurious French