As the vibrant hues of fresh strawberries fill the kitchen, the scent of something truly special beckons. Inspired by the delightful French clafoutis, I’ve created a version that honors the classic while making it gluten-free and with a nutty twist using almond flour. With each bite, you’ll experience the light, airy custard cradling warm, ripe berries, a combination that’s perfect for brightening up any day.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a moment of pantry exploration, where almond flour and luscious strawberries were simply begging to come together in a delicious symphony. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing breakfast, a unique dessert, or even a tasty snack, this easy-to-follow recipe makes an ideal indulgence that impresses without the fuss. Bursting with flavor and versatility, you can even swap in your favorite seasonal fruits!
Join me in celebrating the joy of homemade treats with this gluten-free strawberry clafoutis—because life’s too short for boring desserts!
Why is Strawberry Clafoutis a Must-Try?
Deliciously Versatile: This Strawberry Clafoutis is not just your average dessert; it effortlessly transitions from breakfast to a snack or light afternoon treat. Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for everyone, even novice bakers. Nutty Twist: Using almond flour, this clafoutis offers a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from traditional recipes. Fresh and Fruity: The vibrant strawberries bring a burst of natural sweetness, making every bite a refreshing delight. Gluten-Free Goodness: Delight in a guilt-free dessert that caters to dietary needs—everyone will enjoy this treat!
Strawberry Clafoutis Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful Strawberry Clafoutis!
For the Batter
- Butter (15g) – Greases the baking dish; feel free to use vegan alternatives as well.
- Sugar (70g + 1 tbsp) – Adds sweetness to the custard; adjust for your desired sweetness level.
- Eggs (4) – Provides structure and helps the clafoutis set; organic or free-range eggs enhance flavor.
- Egg Yolk (1) – Enriches the batter, giving it a silkier texture.
- Single Cream (170ml) – Adds creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Almond Extract (few drops) – Enhances flavor perfectly; vanilla can be used if almond isn’t available.
For the Fruit
- Fresh Strawberries (275g) – Use ripe, juicy berries for the best flavor; avoid using frozen strawberries for optimal texture.
For the Nuts
- Ground Pistachios (50g) – Offers a delightful nutty flavor and texture; ground almonds work well for a different twist.
- Almond Flakes (1 tbsp, optional) – Sprinkle on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
For Flavor Depth (optional)
- Liqueur (½ tbsp) – Adds a wonderful depth of flavor; Amaretto or Kirsch are great options depending on your fruit choice.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful Strawberry Clafoutis that will impress your family and friends!
How to Make Strawberry Clafoutis
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While it’s warming, butter an ovenproof pie dish and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly throughout to help with sweetness and texture.
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Arrange Strawberries: Lay the fresh strawberries in a single layer across the bottom of the prepared dish. Make sure they are evenly spaced for a beautiful presentation!
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Whisk Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, an egg yolk, the remaining sugar, cream, and ground nuts or pistachios. Add a few drops of almond extract to enhance the flavor; it’s all about that delightful custard essence!
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Combine: Pour the egg mixture gently over the arranged strawberries, ensuring they are well-covered. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle flaked almonds on top for extra crunch!
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it until it’s golden brown and set in the middle; it should puff slightly, resembling a light, airy cloud!
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Cool: Once baked, let it cool for a few moments. You can serve the clafoutis warm, at room temperature, or chill it in the fridge before serving—it’s delightful either way!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Clafoutis are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you whisk it until it’s just combined to maintain that fluffy texture. Additionally, you can cut and wash the strawberries ahead of time; just store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. When it’s time to enjoy, simply layer the strawberries in your baking dish, pour the prepared batter over them, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have a delectable dessert ready in no time, just as fresh and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Clafoutis
Fridge: Store your leftover strawberry clafoutis in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature for a delightful flavor experience.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, slice the clafoutis and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. This keeps the texture lovely and custardy.
Serving Suggestions: Serve leftovers cold, or slightly warm with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt for an easy treat!
What to Serve with Strawberry Clafoutis?
Imagine the laughter of family gathered around the table, savoring delightful treats that harmonize beautifully without taking away from the star of the meal.
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Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast to the sweet clafoutis, balancing flavors perfectly. It provides a luscious, rich texture that enhances each bite.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: Bright and aromatic, fresh mint leaves lend a refreshing element to the dessert. Simply sprinkle them over your clafoutis for a pop of color and a burst of fragrance.
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Crispy Bacon: For an unexpected but delightful pairing, crispy bacon offers a salty crunch that beautifully complements the sweet custard. The contrast of flavors will ignite your taste buds!
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Light Fruits Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries and citrus adds a refreshing, juicy side that lightens up the rich clafoutis. Consider drizzling with honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Sparkling Rosé: Sip on a chilled glass of sparkling rosé for a festive touch. Its effervescence and fruity notes match the clafoutis’s flavors, making every bite a joyful celebration.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over your warm clafoutis for an indulgent treat. The creaminess beautifully contrasts the custard, creating a luscious mouthfeel that’ll have you craving more!
Strawberry Clafoutis Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and personalize your clafoutis with these delightful variations!
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Berry Medley: Mix strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a vibrant twist. This colorful combination adds a sweet and tart flavor to your clafoutis.
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Nut-Free: Swap ground pistachios with sunflower seed flour to keep it nut-free. This alternative ensures everyone at the table can enjoy this scrumptious dessert!
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Citrus Zest: For a refreshing zing, incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter. The bright citrus notes elevate the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of single cream for a luscious dairy-free version. The coconut adds a subtle flavor while maintaining the creamy texture.
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Chocolate Swirl: Create a decadent version by swirling in some melted dark chocolate before baking. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the fruit, making it a true indulgence.
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Spiced Bliss: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, earthy flavor. These spices bring an extra layer of comfort that feels like a warm hug.
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Caramelized Top: Before baking, sprinkle brown sugar on top for a lovely caramelized finish. It creates a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
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Apples for Autumn: Use thinly sliced apples instead of strawberries for a delightful fall version of clafoutis. Caramelize the apples beforehand for added sweetness and richness.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Clafoutis
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Use Fresh Strawberries: Ripe strawberries are key for sweetness. Avoid frozen ones, as they can lead to a soggy strawberry clafoutis.
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Whisk Eggs Thoroughly: Whisk eggs until they’re pale; this aerates the mixture, ensuring a light, fluffy texture in your clafoutis.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your clafoutis as it bakes. If it overcooks, it may become rubbery instead of soft and custardy.
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Try Different Nuts: Instead of pistachios, experiment with ground almonds for a different flavor profile in your strawberry clafoutis.
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Use a Baking Sheet: Place your pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any overflow and prevent a messy oven.
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Serve at Room Temperature: For the best experience, allow the clafoutis to cool slightly before serving; it’s delicious warm or at room temperature!
Strawberry Clafoutis Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for the Strawberry Clafoutis?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for ripe, fresh strawberries. Look for berries that are vibrant red with a sweet fragrance; they should be firm and free from dark spots or mold. Avoid using frozen strawberries, as they can lead to a soggy clafoutis that lacks that delightful texture.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Clafoutis?
To keep your leftover strawberry clafoutis fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend serving it chilled or at room temperature to enjoy its delightful flavor fully, as it tastes even better the next day!
Can I freeze Strawberry Clafoutis?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the clafoutis into individual pieces, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain that lovely custardy texture.
What should I do if my clafoutis sinks in the middle?
If your clafoutis sinks in the middle after baking, it may need a bit more time in the oven or the eggs weren’t whisked enough. For a fluffy texture, whisk the eggs until they are pale and frothy before adding them to the batter. Always ensure it’s fully set in the middle before removing it from the oven. I usually check that it’s golden brown and has puffed slightly, ensuring it doesn’t sink once cooled.
Is there a dairy-free option for the Strawberry Clafoutis?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the single cream with a plant-based milk like almond milk or coconut cream, or use Greek yogurt for a richer texture while still keeping it lighter. Adjust the sweetness as necessary, and you’ll have a delicious version that caters to different dietary preferences.
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Very much! This clafoutis is versatile, so you can swap strawberries for other seasonal fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even cherries. Just ensure that any substituted fruit is fresh and ripe for the best flavor. Enjoy experimenting with this customizable recipe!
Irresistible Strawberry Clafoutis: A Gluten-Free Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter an ovenproof pie dish and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly throughout.
- Lay the fresh strawberries in a single layer across the bottom of the prepared dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, an egg yolk, the remaining sugar, cream, and ground nuts or pistachios. Add a few drops of almond extract.
- Pour the egg mixture gently over the arranged strawberries, ensuring they are well-covered. Sprinkle flaked almonds on top for extra crunch.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown and set.
- Let it cool for a few moments. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.