As I lifted a slice of warm Strawberry Flaugnarde from the dish, the fragrant aroma of vanilla and ripe fruit filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a sunlit French café. There’s a simple charm in this custardy dessert that makes it a standout at any gathering, and I can’t wait to share this easy, delightful recipe with you. This Strawberry Flaugnarde is not only a nod to seasonal favorites but also quick to whip up, turning rustic ingredients into a comforting treat in no time. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert to cap off dinner or a unique addition to your brunch spread, this recipe will elevate your culinary repertoire. What variations of fruit will you try in your flaugnarde?
Why is Strawberry Flaugnarde a Must-Try?
Delightfully Easy: With minimal ingredients, this French dessert is simple to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Versatile Variations: While strawberries shine in this flaugnarde, you can easily swap in seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or cherries for a personalized twist.
Custardy Perfection: The tender, slightly custardy center paired with chewy edges creates a dessert that’s both comforting and special.
Quick Baking: Whip this up in no time, making it a delightful addition to any meal or an easy evening treat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it warm or chilled, dusted with powdered sugar—your friends and family will be coming back for seconds! If you’re curious about preparing other delightful French desserts, don’t miss our guide on French pastry techniques.
Strawberry Flaugnarde Ingredients
For the Batter
• Butter – Greasing the baking dish for non-stick properties; substitute with non-dairy butter or oil as needed.
• Milk (1 1/4 cup, 312.5ml) – Acts as the base liquid for the batter; use 2% or whole milk for creaminess or opt for almond or coconut milk.
• Granulated Sugar (2/3 cup, 132g) – Provides sweetness; adjust based on fruit ripeness and you can reduce it to 1/2 cup if desired.
• Eggs (3 large, room temperature) – Essential for structure and that custardy texture we crave.
• Kosher Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances flavor for a well-rounded taste.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tbsp, 15ml) – Adds a warm, sweet aroma; consider cognac as a substitute for an interesting twist.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup, 62.5g) – Gives structure to the flan; can be replaced with gluten-free flour if needed.
For the Fruit
• Strawberries (2 cups, 300g, hulled and halved) – The star ingredient that offers freshness and flavor; alternatively, use raspberries, blueberries, cherries, or seasonal stone fruits.
For Serving
• Powdered Sugar – For a beautiful dusting before serving, adding an elegant finishing touch.
Indulge in this Strawberry Flaugnarde and enjoy a taste of French culinary charm!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Flaugnarde
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle. This foundational step will help achieve that perfect rise and golden edges for your Strawberry Flaugnarde.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Generously butter an 8-9 inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet, ensuring every nook is covered to prevent sticking. This will allow the flaugnarde to slide out easily once it’s baked, showcasing its beautiful, puffy shape.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of milk, 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, 3 large eggs, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, continuing to whisk until you achieve a silky batter. If lumps remain, feel free to strain it for a perfectly creamy texture.
Step 4: Layer the Strawberries
Next, take your prepared dish and lay the hulled and halved strawberries evenly across the bottom. Their vivid color will peek through as the dessert bakes, creating a stunning visual appeal when served. Pour the batter gently over the strawberries, ensuring they’re well coated.
Step 5: Bake the Flaugnarde
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and puffed, while the center remains slightly wobbly, reminiscent of a custard. This contrast is vital for that delightful texture that defines the Strawberry Flaugnarde.
Step 6: Cool the Dessert
Once baked, remove the flaugnarde from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. As it cools, it will deflate slightly, creating that iconic custardy center. This cooling period helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, dust the cooled Strawberry Flaugnarde with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. You can slice it into wedges or scoop generous spoonfuls straight from the dish. Whether served warm or chilled, this charming French dessert will surely impress your family and friends!
Strawberry Flaugnarde Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity soar as you customize this delightful dessert with seasonal fruits and flavors!
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Berry Blend: Mix strawberries with blueberries and raspberries for a vibrant, colorful flaugnarde that packs a flavor punch. The combination of berries will create a beautiful medley of sweet and tart notes.
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Tropical Twist: Replace strawberries with diced pineapples or mangoes for a fun tropical take. The juicy sweetness of these fruits will transport you to a sunny paradise, perfect for summer gatherings!
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Peachy Keen: Use ripe peaches, sliced thin, for a delicate and fragrant flaugnarde. The sweetness of the peaches paired with a hint of vanilla lends a charming summertime essence.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, alluring spice note. This subtle boost of flavor elevates the custardy richness, perfect for cozy evenings.
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor profile. This variation introduces a delightful texture contrast that complements the smooth custard beautifully.
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Cognac Flavor Boost: Swap the vanilla extract for 1 tablespoon of cognac. This twist adds a sophisticated depth to the flavor, enhancing the overall experience of this French classic.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or coconut milk in place of regular milk and non-dairy butter for a vegan-friendly version. Your flaugnarde will still be creamy and delicious, satisfying all dietary needs.
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Gluten-Free Goodness: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour to make a gluten-free Strawberry Flaugnarde. This allows anyone to enjoy this lovely dessert without worry, embracing every bite with joy.
No matter which variations you choose, each bite of your customized Strawberry Flaugnarde will be a delicious testament to your creativity and love for home-cooked treats! If you’re intrigued by further fruit ideas, check out our post on seasonal fruits for baking.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Flaugnarde
Choose the Right Dish: Use a ceramic or glass dish for even baking; metal pans may cause unevenly burnt edges that detract from the dish.
Baking Time Matters: Keep an eye on the flaugnarde in the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t overcook; the center should be slightly wobbly but set.
Cooling is Key: Allow the flaugnarde to cool down completely before serving, as it will continue to firm up and develop its delightful texture.
Fruits Galore: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Substitute strawberries with seasonal fruits like raspberries or cherries for a personal twist on your Strawberry Flaugnarde.
Sweetness Adjustment: If you’re using very ripe fruits, you can reduce the sugar content to achieve the perfect balance without compromising flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Flaugnarde
Fridge: Store leftover Strawberry Flaugnarde in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it easy to enjoy anytime.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the flaugnarde in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. It’s best enjoyed warm to bring back its delightful puffy texture.
Serving Tip: Whether served chilled or warmed, always dust with powdered sugar before serving to enhance its elegant appeal.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Flaugnarde are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, and salt, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-hull and halve the strawberries and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy your dessert, just layer the strawberries in the prepared baking dish, pour the prepared batter over them, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a warm, custardy treat with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
What to Serve with Strawberry Flaugnarde?
The perfect Strawberry Flaugnarde calls for delightful accompaniments that enhance its charm and flavor.
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Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop adds richness and lightens the custardy texture, making each bite even more indulgent. It’s that classic addition that elevates something special!
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Fresh Berries: A medley of berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, brings vibrant colors and zesty flavors that balance the sweetness of the flaugnarde, creating a fresh burst in every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and dreamy, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm flaugnarde, creating a heavenly dessert experience that combines temperature and texture beautifully.
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Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee can contrast the sweetness of the flaugnarde, making for a lovely end to your meal or a perfect afternoon treat alongside a slice.
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Mint Sprigs: Fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that cuts through the sweetness, making it an elegant garnish that ties the flavors together beautifully.
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Fruit Compote: A warm berry compote provides a luscious and tangy contrast, amplifying the flaugnarde’s fruity notes and adding a lovely saucy element to your serving.
Serve up these pairings, and watch as your Strawberry Flaugnarde becomes the star of the table!
Strawberry Flaugnarde Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! For optimal flavor, look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid those with dark spots and bruises. If possible, choose strawberries that still have their green caps intact, as they tend to be fresher.
How should I store leftover Strawberry Flaugnarde?
Very well! Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect texture.
Can I freeze my Strawberry Flaugnarde without compromising its texture?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the flaugnarde and place pieces in an airtight container, or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven.
What should I do if my flaugnarde turns out too rubbery or dense?
That can happen sometimes! If the mixture was overmixed or you used cold eggs, it can lead to a dense texture. For future batches, ensure your eggs are at room temperature and mix just until combined. If needed, try reducing the mixing time and strain the batter to achieve a smooth consistency.
Is this dish suitable for people with allergies or specific dietary needs?
The more the merrier! This Strawberry Flaugnarde can be adapted for various dietary restrictions. Use non-dairy milk and non-dairy butter for a lactose-free version, and substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if needed. Always check your ingredients to ensure they’re allergy-friendly for your guests.
What fruit variations work well with this recipe besides strawberries?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with a variety of seasonal fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, cherries, or even peaches! Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose to use. Enjoy the creative process!
Sweet Strawberry Flaugnarde: A Simple French Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) with the rack in the middle.
- Generously butter an 8-9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add flour and salt, whisking until smooth.
- Layer hulled and halved strawberries evenly in the prepared dish, then pour batter over strawberries.
- Bake for about 1 hour until edges are golden brown and center is slightly wobbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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