Rustic Mixed Berry Clafoutis Cake

This Rustic Mixed Berry Clafoutis Cake is a stunning, bakery-style dessert that sits perfectly between a custard and a soft vanilla cake. Originating from classic French clafoutis, this version uses fresh blueberries and raspberries, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, baked into a golden, tender crumb with crisp edges and a creamy center.

It’s the kind of dessert that feels luxurious yet simple, making it ideal for brunch recipes, easy homemade desserts, or weekend baking projects. The contrast between tart berries and gently sweet custard makes this cake incredibly balanced — not overly sugary, not too dense, and absolutely perfect with coffee or tea.

Whether you’re looking for a summer berry dessert, a European-style cake, or a low-effort, high-impact baking recipe, this clafoutis-style cake checks all the boxes. It’s also naturally gluten-light (and easily adaptable), which makes it popular among those searching for health-conscious desserts, homemade bakery recipes, and comfort food desserts.

Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
3 large eggs (room temperature)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, enhances berry flavor)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing pan)

For the Berry Filling

1½ cups fresh blueberries
1 cup fresh raspberries
(You can also use frozen berries — do not thaw)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for berries)
1 teaspoon flour or cornstarch (prevents sinking)

For Topping

Powdered sugar, for dusting
Extra fresh berries (optional)

Equipment Needed

9–10 inch round baking dish or cast-iron skillet
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Fine mesh sieve (for powdered sugar)
Oven preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter your baking dish or skillet, making sure to coat the sides well. This helps create the signature caramelized edges clafoutis is known for.

Sprinkle a light dusting of sugar inside the buttered pan and rotate to coat — this prevents sticking and adds subtle crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Berries

In a small bowl, gently toss the blueberries and raspberries with:

1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon flour or cornstarch

This step keeps the berries suspended in the batter and prevents excess moisture from making the cake soggy.

Spread the berries evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:

Whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
Add vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest.
Slowly whisk in the milk.
Sift in the flour and salt, whisking until smooth and lump-free.

The batter should be thin — similar to heavy cream. This is key to achieving the custardy texture associated with authentic French clafoutis.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

Carefully pour the batter over the berries. The berries will float — that’s exactly what you want.

Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until:

The top is golden brown
The center is just set with a slight jiggle
A knife inserted near the center comes out mostly clean

Step 5: Cool & Serve

Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool for 15–20 minutes. The clafoutis will deflate slightly — totally normal.

Dust generously with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries if desired.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Flavor & Texture Profile

Texture: Soft, custardy interior with lightly crisp edges
Flavor: Creamy vanilla base with bright, tart berry bursts
Aroma: Warm baked berries with subtle almond and citrus notes

This dessert pairs beautifully with:

Fresh whipped cream
Vanilla bean ice cream
Greek yogurt
Espresso or cappuccino

Baking Tips for Best Results

Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter
Don’t overbake — clafoutis should be tender, not dry
Cast-iron skillets create extra caramelization
Fresh berries provide best flavor, but frozen work well for year-round baking

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Replace flour with almond flour or 1:1 gluten-free blend
Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk
Low Sugar: Substitute monk fruit sweetener or erythritol
Other Fruits: Cherries, blackberries, strawberries, peaches, or pears

Final Thoughts

This Mixed Berry Clafoutis Cake is proof that elegant desserts don’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone interested in premium homemade desserts, European baking techniques, or impressive yet easy recipes.

Rustic Mixed Berry Clafoutis Cake