Strawberry Flaugnarde Recipe

I absolutely adore this flaugnarde recipe because it’s like a warm hug from my grandma’s kitchen, filled with sweet, juicy strawberries nestled in a delicate, custard-like batter. Plus, it’s the ultimate brunch showstopper that’s both Instagram-worthy and insanely easy to make, especially when I want to impress my friends with minimal effort.

Strawberry Flaugnarde is a delightful dessert that I hold dear. It’s something that’s both simple and elegant.

Many people get intimidated by the word “custard,” but the batter for a flaugnarde is really just a baked custard. I keep it basic, using fresh strawberries, but you could easily transform the flaugnarde into a seasonal dessert by trying it with a different fruit.

Ingredients

Strawberries, fresh and unsweetened, are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Eggs supply protein and assist in the binding of the batter.

Add sweet granulated sugar to the mix to balance the tartness of the strawberries.

Whole Milk: Imparts a creamy, smooth texture.

General-use Flour: Supplies the building blocks, making the flaugnarde’s core essence.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish
• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use the butter to grease a 9-inch baking dish.

2. Evenly arrange the strawberries that are hulled and halved in the greased baking dish.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs and granulated sugar and whisk until the mixture is pale and frothy.

4. Incorporate the vanilla extract and salt into the egg mixture, whisking them together until they are combined.

5. Slowly mix in the whole milk until it is fully blended.

6. Sift the all-purpose flour into the mixture of wet ingredients, then whisk until a smooth batter forms.

7. Ensure the strawberries in the baking dish are evenly covered with the batter you pour over them.

8. Put the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the flaugnarde is firm and has a golden top.

9. Take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a short while on a wire rack. The center should be firm but a bit unsteady.

10. If desired, you can dust the flaugnarde with powdered sugar before serving it. Serve it warm or at room temperature.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. 9-inch baking dish
3. Measuring spoons
4. Measuring cups
5. Mixing bowl
6. Whisk
7. Sifter
8. Wire rack

FAQ

• What is a Flaugnarde? A Flaugnarde is a French baked dessert similar to a clafoutis, traditionally made with fruits like apples, pears, or berries.
• Can I substitute the strawberries with other fruits? Yes, you can use other fruits such as cherries, apples, or pears. Just ensure they are fresh and prepared accordingly.
• Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk alternative and use a dairy-free butter for greasing.
• Can I prepare the batter in advance? It’s best to prepare the batter fresh for optimal texture, but you can refrigerate it for a few hours if necessary.
• What kind of baking dish is recommended? A shallow, round baking dish about 9 inches in diameter is ideal for even cooking.
• How should I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy them cold or gently reheat before serving.
• Can I add other flavors to the batter? Yes, you can experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for extra flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute fresh strawberries with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
Granulated sugar: Substitute honey or maple syrup, adjusting to taste because they are sweeter.
Whole milk: Substitute almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for an option that is free of dairy.
Gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or almond flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour to make a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Vanilla extract: Swap out the vanilla for almond extract if you want a different flavor profile.

Pro Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before using them in the batter. This allows for easier incorporation and helps achieve a smoother texture.

2. Strawberry Prep Consider macerating the strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar for 10-15 minutes before placing them in the baking dish. This will enhance their natural sweetness and create a bit of syrup that blends well into the flaugnarde.

3. Batter Rest After mixing the batter, let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This can help reduce any potential lumps and allow the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in a smoother consistency.

4. Flour Sifting Take the time to sift the flour before adding it to the wet ingredients. This step prevents lumps and ensures a light, even texture in the final dish.

5. Serving Tip For an extra touch, serve the flaugnarde with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy complement enhances the dessert’s richness and flavor profile.