Name: Pear Blueberry Vanilla Clafoutis
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1-2 teaspoons butter (for greasing the baking dishes); 1 teaspoon sugar (for dusting the baking dishes); 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 vanilla bean seeds (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract); 3/4 cup half and half; 1 pinch salt; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 large pear (or 2 small pears); 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen)

If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a delightful dessert that feels both rustic and sophisticated, look no further than Pear Blueberry Vanilla Clafoutis. This classic French dish combines the delicate flavors of ripe pears, juicy blueberries, and the warm undertones of vanilla, all enveloped in a creamy, custard-like batter. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering. And the best part? It’s incredibly simple to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand!

Why Pear Blueberry Vanilla Clafoutis is Worth Your Time

Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert that celebrates the beauty of seasonal fruits. The simplicity of the recipe allows the flavors of the pears and blueberries to shine through, while the custard-like base adds a luscious texture that melts in your mouth. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a crowd-pleaser that can be served warm or at room temperature. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, Pear Blueberry Vanilla Clafoutis will surely become a favorite in your household.

What to Buy

To prepare this delicious clafoutis, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1-2 teaspoons butter (for greasing your baking dishes)
1 teaspoon sugar (for dusting the baking dishes)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup light brown sugar
1/2 vanilla bean seeds or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
3/4 cup half and half
1 pinch salt
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 large pear or 2 small pears
1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen)

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:

Mixing bowls – for combining the ingredients
Whisk – to blend the batter smoothly
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
Oven-safe baking dish – a pie dish or cast-iron skillet works well
Spatula – for spreading the batter evenly

Cook Pear Blueberry Vanilla Clafoutis Like This

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your clafoutis bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish with 1-2 teaspoons of butter. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sugar over the buttered surface, ensuring an even coating. This step will help create a lovely crust on your clafoutis.

Step 3: Whisk the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs and 1/3 cup of light brown sugar until well combined and slightly frothy. Add the seeds from 1/2 a vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract) and mix well.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the 3/4 cup of half and half and add a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Gently fold until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Prepare the Fruit

Slice the large pear (or two small pears) into thin wedges. If using fresh blueberries, rinse and drain them. If using frozen blueberries, keep them frozen—they will thaw while baking.

Step 7: Assemble the Clafoutis

Arrange the pear slices evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the blueberries on top, then pour the batter over the fruit, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the clafoutis is puffed and golden brown around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the clafoutis from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar or a drizzle of Chocolate Sauce if desired.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you’re missing an ingredient or looking for alternatives, consider these swaps:

Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of half and half for a dairy-free option.
Granulated sugar can be substituted for light brown sugar if necessary.
For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Try using other fruits like cherries, peaches, or raspberries based on your preference.

Pro Tips & Notes

Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Don’t skip the step of dusting the baking dish with sugar; it adds a delightful caramelized crust.
Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of melted Homemade Butter to the batter.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you’re a meal prep enthusiast, you can make the batter a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before pouring it over the fruit. Leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold for breakfast!

Troubleshooting Q&A

What should I do if my clafoutis is too runny?

If your clafoutis is too runny, it may need more flour or a longer baking time. Make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the clafoutis is ready.

Can I use frozen fruit in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen blueberries work beautifully in this Pear Blueberry Vanilla Clafoutis. Just be sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter.

Why did my clafoutis sink after baking?

Clafoutis can sometimes sink as it cools, which is normal. To avoid this, ensure that you bake it until fully set and puffed up. The texture will settle as it cools.

Is it necessary to use a vanilla bean?

While a vanilla bean adds a lovely depth of flavor, using vanilla extract is a perfectly acceptable alternative. One teaspoon of extract will do the trick!

Wrap-Up

Creating a Pear Blueberry Vanilla Clafoutis is a delightful way to showcase seasonal fruits while indulging in a sweet treat that’s both comforting and elegant. With its creamy custard base and the sweet, juicy bursts of fruit, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy breakfast, this clafoutis is as versatile as it is delicious. Embrace the flavors of the season, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every bite of this delightful French classic!