Nectarine Clafoutis Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both elegant and irresistibly comforting, Nectarine Clafoutis is the perfect choice. This French-inspired baked custard dessert highlights sweet, juicy nectarines nestled in a tender, lightly sweetened batter. Each bite is a harmonious blend of fruity freshness and delicate fluffiness, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy after-dinner treat. The Nectarine Clafoutis manages to feel like a special occasion and a simple pleasure all at once, and I can’t wait to share why it might just become your new favorite dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bringing together a handful of straightforward ingredients, this Nectarine Clafoutis really shines because each element plays a crucial part in its deliciousness. From the juicy nectarines adding natural sweetness and vibrant color, to the smooth batter providing that custardy texture, every ingredient is essential yet easy to find.

• 3 ripe nectarines: Choose fruit that’s fragrant and slightly soft for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
• 3 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness, giving the clafoutis its custard-like body.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Just enough to balance the nectarines’ natural tartness without overpowering.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: This adds a tender, cakey texture to the batter, helping it puff and set nicely.
• 1 cup whole milk: Whole milk keeps the batter creamy and moist, essential for that silky finish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the stone fruit beautifully.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Butter lends richness and helps the clafoutis brown perfectly in the oven.

How to Make Nectarine Clafoutis

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While it warms, generously butter an 8-inch round baking dish—this prevents sticking and adds a bit of extra buttery goodness to the edges of your clafoutis.

Step 2: Arrange the Nectarines

Slice your nectarines into even wedges so they cook uniformly. Lay them out in a single layer across the bottom of the dish. This fruit bed will infuse the clafoutis with brilliant flavor and stunning visual appeal as the nectarines peek through the batter while baking.

Step 3: Whisk the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, flour, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything thoroughly until you have a smooth, slightly runny batter. The key here is to blend everything well without overmixing to keep the texture light and tender.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Pour the batter evenly over the arranged nectarines, making sure they are fully covered but still visible through the custard mix. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. Your clafoutis is done when it’s beautifully puffed, golden brown, and set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let your Nectarine Clafoutis cool just a bit before serving. This allows the custard to settle and makes slicing easier while keeping that lovely creamy texture intact.

How to Serve Nectarine Clafoutis

Garnishes

While the Nectarine Clafoutis is stunning on its own, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a touch of elegance. Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream provide a fresh contrast, brightening the presentation and adding flavor complexity.

Side Dishes

Pair this clafoutis with a cup of strong coffee or a chilled glass of dessert wine to elevate your eating experience. For brunch, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a light green salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Serve individual portions in small ramekins with a slice of nectarine on top before baking. Alternatively, drizzle with honey or a fruit coulis after baking for an extra burst of sweetness and visual appeal that highlights the star ingredient.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover clafoutis in the refrigerator for up to three days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent drying out.

Freezing

Although clafoutis can be frozen, the texture may change slightly. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed fresh but freezing is an option for extending its life.

Reheating

Warm your leftover Nectarine Clafoutis gently in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10 to 15 minutes or microwave individual portions briefly. This will revive the custard’s softness without drying it out, ready to enjoy all over again.

FAQs

Can I use other stone fruits instead of nectarines?

Absolutely! Peaches, plums, or cherries all work wonderfully in this recipe. Each brings its own sweetness and texture that pairs beautifully with the clafoutis batter.

Is it necessary to peel the nectarines?

No need to peel them unless you prefer a softer texture. The skin adds color and a slight tartness, plus extra nutrients.

Can I make Nectarine Clafoutis vegan or dairy-free?

To veganize, substitute eggs with flax or chia egg alternatives, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. The texture will differ slightly but still be delicious.

What’s the best way to tell when it’s done baking?

Look for puffed edges that are golden brown and a custard center that’s set but still slightly jiggly. It continues to firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep it tender.

Can Nectarine Clafoutis be served cold?

Yes, some people enjoy it chilled, especially on warm days. The flavor is still lovely, but the texture will be firmer and less custardy than when served warm or at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Nectarine Clafoutis is a delightful way to celebrate summer’s bounty with a dish that feels both rustic and refined. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and rewards you with a custardy, fruity dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and soon this charming French treat might just become your go-to dessert for any occasion.

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