Elderberry and Pear Clafoutis
Imagine diving into a dish where the tang of elderberries meets the sweet, mellow tones of ripe pears. That’s the essence of Elderberry and Pear Clafoutis, a dessert that not only dances on your palate but also brings a bounty of health benefits to the table. This dish, with its roots in the rustic French countryside, marries the antioxidant-rich elderberries with the succulent texture of pears, creating a culinary masterpiece that’s as delightful to the senses as it is nourishing.
Ingredients
- – 1 cup fresh elderberries or thawed if frozen
- – 2 ripe pears peeled, cored, and sliced
- – 3/4 cup all-purpose flour gluten-free if necessary
- – 1/4 cup granulated sugar plus more for sprinkling
- – Pinch of salt
- – 3 large eggs
- – 1 1/2 cups whole milk or a plant-based alternative
- – 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- – Powdered sugar for dusting
- – Butter for greasing
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or cast-iron skillet lightly with butter.
- Layer the sliced pears and elderberries in the bottom of the dish, creating a colorful canvas for your clafoutis.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Crack the eggs into the mixture, stirring vigorously to banish any lumps.
- Gradually pour in the milk and vanilla extract, blending until the batter is smooth as silk, a metaphor for the seamless blend of flavors to come.
- Pour this luscious batter over the fruit, making sure to cover them lovingly. Sprinkle a bit more sugar on top for a glistening finish.
- Slide the dish into the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden, with a slight jiggle that whispers of its custardy heart.
- Once done, let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar for a snow-capped effect that’s as enchanting to look at as it is to eat.
Notes
– If fresh elderberries aren’t in season, frozen ones work just fine. Just ensure they’re thawed and drained to avoid excess liquid.
– For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla.
– This recipe is wonderfully adaptable; feel free to substitute almond milk or oat milk if you’re going dairy-free.
– If you’re watching your sugar intake, a swap for honey or maple syrup can add a lovely, natural sweetness.