A traditional French clafoutis reimagined with gluten-free ingredients
What is a Clafoutis?
Clafoutis (pronounced “klah-foo-TEE”) is a classic French dessert that originated in the Limousin region. Traditionally made with cherries suspended in a flan-like batter, this versatile dish has evolved to embrace various fruits. Our gluten-free blueberry almond version swaps wheat flour for nutrient-rich almond flour, creating a dessert that’s not only suitable for those with gluten sensitivities but also lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein than the original.
The beauty of clafoutis lies in its simplicity—a quick batter poured over fresh fruit and baked until puffed and golden. The result is a dessert with a unique texture: custardy in the center with slightly crisp edges, studded throughout with bursts of warm, juicy blueberries.
Key Ingredients for Success
The success of this gluten-free blueberry almond clafoutis relies on a few key ingredients that work harmoniously together:
- Almond Flour: The foundation of our gluten-free batter, providing a subtle nutty flavor and tender texture.
- Fresh Blueberries: Summer berries at their peak sweetness create pockets of juicy flavor throughout the dessert.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that complements the berries without overwhelming them.
- Sliced Almonds: Sprinkled on top for a beautiful presentation and added crunch.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the almond flavor and adds aromatic depth.
Gluten-Free Blueberry Almond Clafoutis Recipe
- 2 cups fresh blueberries, washed and dried
- 1½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup tapioca starch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9-inch round baking dish or pie plate.
- Spread the blueberries evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca starch, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add the honey, almond milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth. The batter will be relatively thin, similar to pancake batter.
- Pour the batter over the blueberries. Gently tap the dish on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds around the perimeter of the dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the clafoutis is puffed, set in the center, and golden brown around the edges.
- Allow to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving (it will deflate slightly as it cools).
- If desired, dust with a little powdered sugar just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Clafoutis is versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your gluten-free blueberry almond creation:
- Warm with Ice Cream: Serve a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast.
- Room Temperature: The flavors develop beautifully as the clafoutis cools to room temperature.
- Breakfast Treat: Enjoy leftovers for breakfast with a dollop of yogurt for a protein-rich start to your day.
- Afternoon Tea: Pair with a cup of Earl Grey or chamomile tea for an elegant afternoon treat.
Tips for Perfect Clafoutis
Expert Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and milk to come to room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients just until smooth to keep the texture light.
- Berry Selection: Choose firm, ripe blueberries for the best flavor. Pat them dry to prevent excess moisture.
- Check Doneness: The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle when the dish is gently shaken.
- Cooling Time: Allow 15-20 minutes of cooling time before serving for the best texture.
Delicious Variations
Mixed Berry
Combine blueberries with raspberries and blackberries for a colorful variation with complex flavors.
Lemon-Infused
Add lemon zest to the batter for a bright, citrusy note that complements the blueberries beautifully.
Coconut-Topped
Sprinkle unsweetened coconut flakes over the top before baking for a tropical twist.
Nutritional Benefits
This gluten-free blueberry almond clafoutis isn’t just delicious—it also offers several nutritional advantages over traditional wheat-based desserts:
Protein-Rich
Almond flour contains significantly more protein than wheat flour, making this dessert more satisfying and helping to balance blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Power
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support overall health. They’re also rich in vitamin C and fiber.
Healthy Fats
The almonds and coconut oil provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and medium-chain triglycerides that support brain health.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Cover leftover clafoutis with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing isn’t recommended as it can affect the texture.
Make-Ahead Options
- Prep Ingredients: Measure dry ingredients and combine in advance.
- Batter Preparation: The batter can be made up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerated.
- Complete Dessert: Bake up to 8 hours before serving and reheat gently before serving.
A Timeless Dessert Made Accessible
This gluten-free blueberry almond clafoutis proves that dietary restrictions don’t have to mean sacrificing classic desserts. With its perfect balance of sweet blueberries, almond-infused custard, and delicate texture, it’s a dessert that will impress both gluten-free and conventional eaters alike. Whether served warm from the oven with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed at room temperature with afternoon tea, this French-inspired treat celebrates the simple pleasure of summer berries in an elegant, accessible form.