Are you a beginner looking to try your hand at French desserts? Look no further! French patisserie is renowned for its elegance, sophistication, and rich flavors. But don’t worry if you’re new to baking – many classic French desserts are surprisingly simple to make. In this article, we’ll introduce you to 20 easy French dessert recipes that are perfect for beginners.
From decadent chocolate mousse to light and airy éclairs, our collection features a range of sweet treats that are sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert to whip up for a dinner party or a special treat to indulge in on your own, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Classic French Crème Brûlée
Classic French Crème Brûlée Recipe
A rich and creamy custard base topped with a caramelized sugar crust, crème brûlée is a timeless French dessert that never goes out of style. This recipe yields four generous servings.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, and granulated sugar.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Strain the custard into a clean bowl to remove any air bubbles.
6. Pour the custard into 4 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
9. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
10. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
11. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each ramekin. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chocolate Mousse
Whip up a rich and decadent dessert with this simple recipe that requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold the egg whites into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Gently fold the melted chocolate into the cream mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve after chilling.
Simple French Apple Tart
This classic French dessert is a perfect combination of flaky pastry, tender apples, and a hint of sweetness. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious tart in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 3-4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange apple slices in a single layer, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle sugar, flour, and salt evenly over the apples.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the apples, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush melted butter over the pastry crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Raspberry Clafoutis
This sweet treat is a perfect blend of tart raspberries and creamy custard, all wrapped up in a crispy pastry crust. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can indulge in this delightful dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Pastry crust (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix raspberries and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and eggs. Add heavy cream and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour egg mixture over raspberry mixture; stir gently to combine.
5. Pour mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish or a small baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until custard is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Effortless Madeleines
Effortless Madeleines Recipe
Experience the classic French delicacy with minimal effort!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a madeleine pan or mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients; whisk until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan, filling 3/4 of each mold.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool in pans for 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: 20-24 madeleines
French Yogurt Cake
French Yogurt Cake: A Moist and Delicious Treat
This classic French cake recipe uses yogurt instead of butter or milk, resulting in a tender and moist dessert with a subtle tanginess. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) plain yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, and baking powder.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Pear Tarte Tatin
This French-inspired dessert is a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, with its caramelized pears and flaky pastry crust. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this show-stopping treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 3-4 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add pears and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Arrange pears in a spiral pattern on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle sugar evenly over the pears.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush pastry with beaten egg and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
3-Ingredient French Palmiers
Palmiers are a classic French cookie that’s surprisingly simple to make. With just three ingredients and a few minutes of prep time, you’ll be enjoying these buttery, flaky treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.4 oz) package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat your 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 small bowl, mix together the sugar and butter until well combined.
4. Spread the sugar mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Fold the sides of the pastry in towards the center, pressing gently to seal.
6. Place the palmier on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Vanilla Éclairs
Classic French pastries get a boost of simplicity with this straightforward recipe for vanilla éclairs. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicate treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Add melted butter to the mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Sift flour into the mixture and whisk until well combined.
6. Pipe the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Strawberry Charlotte
A refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this Quick Strawberry Charlotte is a light and airy delight that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 6-8 ladyfingers
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. In a separate bowl, dip each ladyfinger into the softened butter, coating both sides evenly.
4. To assemble the charlotte, create a layer of ladyfingers in a 9×13 inch dish.
5. Top with a layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
6. Repeat steps 4-5 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (refrigeration time)
Easy Lemon Tart
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing and tangy lemon tart that’s perfect for spring or summer gatherings. With a simple crust and a zesty lemon filling, it’s an effortless yet impressive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
2. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Pour the lemon filling over the baked tart crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the filling is set.
5. Allow the tart to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Almond Financiers
French Almond Financiers Recipe
These delicate and flavorful financiers are a classic French dessert made with ground almonds, sugar, eggs, and butter. Perfect for tea parties or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120g) ground almonds
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 4 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter and flour a mini muffin tin or small financiers molds.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ground almonds, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Add the melted butter and almond extract to the egg whites; whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually pour the egg mixture over the almond mixture; whisk until well combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared molds, filling about 3/4 of the way.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: 12-15 financiers
Chocolate Soufflé for Beginners
Discover the joy of making a classic French dessert with this simple recipe for beginners. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be impressing friends and family with your very own chocolate soufflé.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 2 ounces (60g) high-quality dark chocolate, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 3 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, melted chocolate, and salt until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and flour. Gradually add the chocolate mixture and whisk until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the chocolate mixture.
5. Pour into prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Cherry Clafoutis
Discover the French delight that’s as effortless as it is delicious! This Simple Cherry Clafoutis recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
3. Gently fold in cherries.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Cinnamon Crêpes
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat. These crêpes are easy to make and packed with cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, water, flour, and salt until smooth.
2. Add melted butter, egg, and cinnamon; whisk until well combined.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush with a thin layer of butter.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until edges start to curl and surface is dry.
6. Loosen crêpe with a spatula and flip; cook for another minute.
7. Repeat with remaining batter, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on number of crêpes)
Easy Mille-Feuille
Mille-feuille, also known as napoleon, is a classic French pastry made with layers of puff pastry, pastry cream, and fruit preserves. This easy recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup raspberry jam
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Cut into rectangles, about 4 inches wide and 6 inches long.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Mix in confectioners’ sugar and butter until smooth.
4. Spoon a small amount of pastry cream onto one half of each rectangle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle with raspberry jam and top with fresh raspberries.
6. Fold other half of rectangle over filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
French Butter Cookies (Sablés)
These tender and crumbly cookies are a staple of French patisserie, perfect for dunking in tea or coffee. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicate treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Simple Profiteroles
A classic French dessert, profiteroles are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside choux pastry balls filled with whipped cream or ice cream. With this simple recipe, you can create a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine flour, butter, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the beaten egg and mix until smooth.
5. Pipe small balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each profiterole.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Blueberry Galette
A sweet and tangy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings, this blueberry galette is ready to impress in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
4. Arrange the blueberry mixture onto the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the crust with melted butter.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Chocolate Fondant
Easy Chocolate Fondant Recipe
Summary: Rich, gooey chocolate fondant is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying this decadent treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Whisk eggs and heavy cream together, then add melted butter and stir to combine.
5. Pour egg mixture into melted chocolate and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour batter into 4-6 small ramekins or cups.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
Summary
Discover the world of French patisserie with these easy and delicious dessert recipes perfect for beginners! From classic crème brûlée to effortless madeleines, you’ll find a variety of sweet treats that are sure to impress. Learn how to make simple French apple tart, quick raspberry clafoutis, and other mouth-watering desserts using common ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re a novice baker or just looking for a new dessert to try, this collection of 20 recipes is sure to delight your taste buds.
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