Indulge in the world of French patisserie without the fuss! French desserts are renowned for their elegance and sophistication, but they don’t have to be intimidatingly complex. With these 20 delicious and easy French dessert recipes, beginners can master the art of French baking with ease. From classic crème brûlée to effortless éclairs, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of French desserts, sharing simple yet impressive recipes that are perfect for beginners. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert to impress your friends or want to master a new skill, these recipes are sure to delight. So, let’s get started and discover the joy of French baking together!
Classic French Crème Brûlée
A rich and creamy dessert that’s sure to impress. This classic French recipe consists of a velvety custard base topped with a layer of caramelized sugar, adding a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter to prevent curdling.
6. Strain the custard into a clean bowl and let cool to room temperature.
7. Pour the cooled custard into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin.
11. Caramelize the sugar with a kitchen torch or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chocolate Mousse
Whip up a decadent dessert with just a few simple ingredients! This classic chocolate mousse recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Gently fold the egg white mixture into the chocolate mixture until smooth.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Quick French Apple Tart
Discover the simplicity of a classic French dessert with this quick and delicious apple tart recipe. Perfect for a cozy evening or a spontaneous gathering, this sweet treat is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apple slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Mix sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle mixture evenly over apples.
5. Fold other half of pastry over apples, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush melted butter over pastry and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Madeleines
These petite, shell-shaped cakes are a classic French treat that require minimal ingredients and effort to create. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, madeleines are a delightful addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– Unsalted butter, softened, for greasing the madeleine pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add baking powder, vanilla extract, and milk; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Grease madeleine pan with butter and pour in batter, filling each shell about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Effortless Clafoutis
A French dessert that’s as simple as it is delightful, clafoutis is a perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful dessert with a hint of vanilla and a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed stone fruits (cherries, plums, peaches), pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the stone fruits, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the vanilla extract and melted butter; toss until the fruit is evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Yogurt Cake
Moist and flavorful, this French yogurt cake is a perfect treat for any occasion. With the addition of tangy yogurt, it’s a twist on the classic vanilla cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter and mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry Charlotte
A classic French dessert, Strawberry Charlotte is a heavenly combination of fresh strawberries, sweet cream, and delicate sponge cake. This recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 ladyfingers (about 3 ounces)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their juice and meld with the sugar.
3. Cut the ladyfingers in half lengthwise and dip each piece into the whipped cream, coating both sides evenly.
4. Assemble the Charlotte by placing a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a large serving dish or individual glasses. Top with a layer of strawberry mixture, followed by a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including chilling time)
Easy Paris-Brest
A classic French dessert, Paris-Brest is a delicious cream-filled pastry that’s surprisingly easy to make. This simplified recipe yields a mouthwatering treat with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup praline or caramel sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut into a ring shape, using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Allow to cool completely before filling.
6. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
7. Spread or pipe filling into cooled pastry ring.
8. If desired, drizzle praline or caramel sauce over the filling.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Tarte Tatin
This recipe streamlines the traditional preparation of Tarte Tatin, a caramelized apple tart that’s perfect for a quick dessert or brunch. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll be enjoying a warm, golden-brown tarte in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 apples, peeled and halved
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apples in a circular pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Dot apples with butter and sprinkle with sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Fold pastry over apples, pressing gently to seal edges.
6. Place tarte on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Almond Financiers
These delicate French treats are a classic dessert that combines the rich flavors of almond and vanilla with a light and airy texture. Perfect for serving at tea time or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) finely ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and almonds.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in melted butter.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until financiers are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple Crêpes Suzette
A classic French dessert, Crêpes Suzette consists of thin, delicate crepes filled with a sweet and tangy orange butter sauce. This simple recipe yields a delicious and impressive dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook crepes in a small non-stick pan over medium heat, using about 1/4 cup of batter per crepe.
4. Fill cooked crepes with orange butter sauce (see below).
5. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow filling to melt.
Orange Butter Sauce:
1. In a small saucepan, combine melted butter, orange juice, sugar, and Grand Marnier (if using).
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Mille-Feuille
Easy Mille-Feuille: A Classic French Dessert with a Twist
This recipe simplifies the traditional mille-feuille process, using puff pastry and a few clever tricks to create a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Fresh raspberries or strawberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into long, thin strips (about 1/4 inch wide).
3. Place strips on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
5. Allow pastry to cool completely before assembling the mille-feuille. Whip heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
6. Spread a thin layer of confectioners’ sugar on top of cooled pastry strips. Top with whipped cream and garnish with fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
French Vanilla Pots de Crème
Elevate your dessert game with these creamy, velvety pots de crème infused with the sweetness of French vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Strain the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Cherry Clafoutis
This cherry clafoutis recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for a quick treat or special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a warm, crispy, and flavorful dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the cherries.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Éclairs for Beginners
Get ready to impress with this simple and delicious recipe for chocolate éclairs. With just a few ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be enjoying these creamy, chocolatey treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Chocolate glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
6. Pipe éclair shapes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow éclairs to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and drizzling with chocolate glaze.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy French Pear Tart
This classic dessert requires just a few ingredients and simple preparation, resulting in a sweet and elegant tart perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together the sliced pears, granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
4. Arrange the pear mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
6. Brush the edges with a little water and press gently to seal.
7. Place the tart on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Raspberry Tart
This classic dessert is perfect for warm weather, featuring a sweet and tangy filling nestled in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the raspberries and granulated sugar. Sprinkle with cornstarch.
3. Arrange the raspberry mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
5. Brush the edges with melted butter and press gently to seal.
6. Place the tart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Lemon Madeleines
These delicate French cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon and the tenderness of a buttery sponge cake. Perfect for serving alongside a cup of tea or coffee, these madeleines are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup (85g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a madeleine pan and dust with flour.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow the madeleines to cool in the pan before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Profiteroles
These classic French treats are a perfect dessert solution when you’re short on time. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking, you can have a batch of crispy, airy profiteroles in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, salt, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add flour and mix until smooth.
4. Beat in egg whites until well combined.
5. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Pain Perdu (French Toast)
Start your day with a delicious and indulgent breakfast treat that’s surprisingly simple to make! This classic French toast recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably a day-old baguette or Challah)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Heat the melted butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of French patisserie with these 20 easy and delicious dessert recipes perfect for beginners! From classic Crème Brûlée to Chocolate Mousse, Quick Apple Tart, and Simple Madeleines, each recipe is carefully crafted to guide you through the process. Whether you’re a novice baker or just looking to impress your friends, this collection of French desserts offers something for everyone. With ingredients easily found in most supermarkets and simple instructions, you’ll be whipping up Tarte Tatin and Éclairs like a pro in no time! So, get baking and indulge in the rich flavors of France without leaving home.
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