There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming a handful of simple ingredients into a delightful dessert. Picture this: you open your fridge and spot a carton of ripe strawberries—sweet, fragrant, and just begging to be the star of the show. That’s how I discovered the magic of Strawberry Flaugnarde, a dreamy French dish that elegantly blurs the lines between cake and custard.
With a patchwork of velvety batter enveloping tender fruit, this recipe is a delightful treat whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply satisfying a sweet tooth after dinner. And the best part? It comes together with minimal fuss in a mere hour. Whether you slice into it warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or let it cool to enjoy later, this Flaugnarde is sure to impress—for both the novice cook and the seasoned chef. Ready to awaken your inner pastry chef with a simple yet scrumptious recipe? Let’s dive in!
Why will you love this Strawberry Flaugnarde?
Easily made at home: With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this delightful dish without any special equipment.
Deliciously comforting: The combination of juicy strawberries and creamy batter creates a rich and satisfying dessert that feels indulgent.
Versatile serving options: Serve it warm for a cozy finish to any meal or let it cool for a refreshing treat. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
A feast for the eyes: This dessert is not only tasty but also visually stunning, making it perfect for impressing guests at brunch or dinner parties.
Crowd-pleaser: From kids to adults, everyone will love this sweet French classic, making it an instant favorite at any gathering.
Strawberry Flaugnarde Ingredients
• Let’s gather what you need!
For the Batter
- 1 tbsp butter – Use unsalted butter for better control of the sweetness.
- 1 1/4 cup (312.5ml) milk – Whole milk creates a richer flavor, but 2% works perfectly too.
- 2/3 cup (132g) granulated sugar – Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your strawberries.
- 3 large eggs – Eggs should be at room temperature for better blending into the batter.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt – A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness of the Flaugnarde.
- 1 tbsp (15ml) vanilla extract – Opt for pure vanilla for a deeper flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup (62.5g) all-purpose flour – This gives structure to your batter, making it just right!
For the Fruit
- 2 cups (300g) ripe strawberries – Choose sweet, ripe berries for a fruity burst in every bite.
For Serving
- Powdered sugar – A light dusting adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to your dish.
This Strawberry Flaugnarde is bound to become a cherished recipe in your home, transforming simple ingredients into a treasured dessert!
How to Make Strawberry Flaugnarde
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Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C. Position a rack in the middle and generously butter an 8-9 inch baking dish or skillet. This helps achieve a beautifully golden crust!
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Whisk together the milk, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Slowly add in the flour and kosher salt, mixing until you have a smooth batter resembling heavy cream. If it’s lumpy, use a fine mesh strainer to refine it.
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Arrange the halved strawberries at the bottom of your buttered dish. Gently pour the batter over the strawberries, ensuring they are well covered.
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Bake for about 1 hour. Your Flaugnarde is ready when it’s puffed and golden brown on the edges, with the center still slightly wobbly.
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Cool the Flaugnarde on a rack. It will naturally deflate a bit as it cools.
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Serve it warm or let it cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch!
Optional: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Strawberry Flaugnarde are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. To do this, whisk together the milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, and salt as instructed, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any strong odors from your fridge affecting the batter’s flavor. The strawberries can also be hulled and sliced ahead of time; just refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the strawberries in your buttered dish, pour the prepared batter over them, and pop it in the oven for freshly baked delight that’s just as delectable as if made the same day!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Flaugnarde
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Choose Ripe Berries: Use sweet, ripe strawberries as they elevate the Flaugnarde’s flavor and sweetness. Avoid overripe or underripe ones!
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Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Cold eggs can lead to lumps, making blending difficult.
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Smooth Batter: If your batter is too lumpy, strain it through a fine mesh sieve before pouring. This step ensures a silky texture, critical for your Strawberry Flaugnarde.
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Don’t Overbake: Watch your Flaugnarde closely; the center should remain slightly wobbly. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
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Cooling Matters: Allow your Flaugnarde to cool on a rack; it will naturally deflate. This process is crucial for the perfect presentation and texture.
By following these tips, you’ll create a delectable Strawberry Flaugnarde that’s sure to impress!
What to Serve with Strawberry Flaugnarde?
Indulge your loved ones with a delightful spread that elevates your dessert into a meal they won’t forget.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the Flaugnarde’s richness. The sweetness complements the strawberries beautifully, making every bite a decadent dream.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing transforms warm slices of Flaugnarde into a comforting treat. The creamy ice cream melts into the dessert, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with peppery arugula and light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. It brings lightness to your meal, balancing the sweetness of the Flaugnarde.
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Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of prosecco or sparkling rosé elevates the experience. The bubbles and acidity of the wine perfectly cut through the richness of the Flaugnarde, cleansing your palate.
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Coffee or Espresso: Serve a rich cup of coffee alongside your dessert for a delightful finish. The warmth and bitterness of the coffee beautifully contrast the sweetness of the Flaugnarde.
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Fresh Berries: Enhance the presentation with a side of mixed fresh berries. Their tartness and burst of flavor will enhance the overall taste experience, making it fresh and vibrant.
Serve up these delightful additions, and watch as your Strawberry Flaugnarde becomes the star of the meal!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Flaugnarde
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Strawberry Flaugnarde for up to 2 days when kept covered at room temperature. The flavors will bloom beautifully, but it’s best eaten fresh!
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before covering to prevent condensation and maintain texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped slices of Flaugnarde for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to restore its delightful texture. Enjoy!
Strawberry Flaugnarde Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that will make your Flaugnarde even more spectacular!
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Berry Blend: Mix in 1 cup of blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant fruit medley. Each bite offers a burst of tangy sweetness.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. This way, everyone can indulge without worry!
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Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for a lighter, vegan-friendly Flaugnarde.
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Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
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Chocolate Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spiciness that enhances the comforting flavors of your dish.
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Savory Option: Swap strawberries for sautéed apples or pears and reduce sugar, creating a delightful savory dish perfect for brunch!
These variations invite you to make the recipe your own, turning each Flaugnarde into a unique creation that suits your palate!
Strawberry Flaugnarde Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use for my Flaugnarde?
Absolutely! Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor. Look for berries that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch, without dark spots or excessive softness. Overripe strawberries can turn mushy and affect the overall texture of your Flaugnarde, while underripe ones may add unwanted tartness.
How can I store leftover Strawberry Flaugnarde?
The flavors of your Strawberry Flaugnarde will bloom beautifully when kept at room temperature, so enjoy it for up to 2 days when covered. For refrigerating, once it’s completely cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its yummy texture without getting soggy.
Can I freeze Strawberry Flaugnarde?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice the Flaugnarde and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its delicious texture!
What should I do if my Flaugnarde didn’t puff up as expected?
Oh no! If your Flaugnarde didn’t puff up, it might be due to underwhisking the batter or not baking it at the right temperature. Be sure to whisk your eggs well to incorporate air, which helps it rise. Also, make sure your oven is preheated correctly; an oven thermometer can be a helpful tool to check for accuracy!
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Very! This Strawberry Flaugnarde contains eggs and dairy, so it may not be suitable for individuals with egg or lactose allergies. However, you could experiment with egg replacements like flaxseed meal or applesauce and use lactose-free milk for a delicious alternative. Always proceed with caution and check the suitability of all ingredients based on specific dietary needs.
Irresistible Strawberry Flaugnarde: A Sweet Homemade Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C. Generously butter an 8-9 inch baking dish or skillet.
- Whisk together the milk, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl.
- Slowly add in the flour and kosher salt, mixing until smooth.
- Arrange the halved strawberries at the bottom of your buttered dish. Pour the batter over the strawberries.
- Bake for about 1 hour until puffed and golden brown with a slightly wobbly center.
- Cool the Flaugnarde on a rack before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm or let it cool completely.