There’s something magical about French home cooking; simple ingredients, timeless recipes, and the comfort of sharing something warm and sweet straight from the oven. One of our favourite traditional desserts? The beloved clafoutis.

A Dessert Rooted in French Heritage

Originating in the Limousin region (yes, right where Halcyon Retreat is located!), clafoutis is a classic French dessert that finds itself somewhere between a cake and a flan. Its batter is rich with eggs, soft and just slightly custardy, and it bakes around whole, juicy cherries. Served warm and topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche, it’s a dessert that brings comfort and joy in every bite.

Traditionally, clafoutis was made with the season’s fresh black cherries, left unpitted to add extra flavour. Over time, the recipe evolved, and today it’s common to use pitted cherries—fresh or frozen—making it even easier to prepare at home.

Simple, Rustic, and Perfect for Holiday Home Cooking

One of the reasons we love clafoutis so much is its simplicity. The batter comes together in just one bowl—no fuss, no complicated steps. It’s the perfect dessert to make in your fully equipped holiday home kitchen at Wyndham Halcyon Retreat, especially after a visit to a local market where you might pick up sweet cherries, farm-fresh eggs, and rich cream from the region.

Imagine spending the day exploring the French countryside, then returning to your peaceful retreat to bake this warm, comforting dish. Whether you’re cooking as a couple, with friends, or introducing your children to the joy of French cuisine, clafoutis is a dish that brings people together.

Bake It Yourself: The Classic Cherry Clafoutis

Here’s a quick look at what goes into this traditional dessert:

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs (room temperature)
• ¾ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 36 pitted black cherries (fresh or defrosted if frozen)

To Make:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter and lightly sugar a 25 cm (10 in) quiche or baking dish.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Add the flour, then whisk in the cream and milk until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the dish and evenly distribute the cherries.
4. Bake for around 35 minutes, until golden and set.
5. Let it cool slightly, then serve warm with vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche.

Bring the Taste of France into Your Retreat

There’s something extra special about enjoying a warm slice of clafoutis at your holiday home, surrounded by the natural beauty of central France. At Halcyon Retreat, we love celebrating the simple joys of French living—whether that’s exploring charming villages, enjoying local delicacies, or baking a traditional dessert in your very own kitchen.

Ready to discover more about the relaxed, delicious lifestyle waiting for you here in the heart of France? Click here to explore our properties and download your free brochure.

Bon appétit – and happy baking!