Indulge in the sweet life with these 18 delectable and easy-to-make French dessert recipes perfect for beginners! France is renowned for its patisserie, and it’s no surprise why. From crème brûlée to tarte tatin, French desserts are a masterpiece of elegance and sophistication. But what makes them even more special is the simplicity with which they can be prepared.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of French patisserie, sharing 18 mouthwatering dessert recipes that require minimal effort but maximum flavor. From classic desserts like crème brûlée and madeleines to innovative creations like no-bake lemon tart and chocolate soufflé, our collection has something for every taste and skill level.
So, let’s dive in and get baking! Whether you’re a seasoned pastry chef or just starting your culinary journey, these easy French dessert recipes are sure to impress your family and friends.
Classic French Crème Brûlée
Rich and creamy, crème brûlée is a timeless French dessert that never fails to impress. This classic recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, showcasing the beauty of just a few high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow.
3. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Strain into 4 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Allow to cool; refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each ramekin and caramelize with a kitchen torch.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Chocolate Mousse
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with this simple and creamy mousse recipe. Perfect as a dessert or snack, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces good-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 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, stirring occasionally.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Gently fold in the egg mixture until no white streaks remain.
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: 10 minutes
Simple French Apple Tart
This classic French dessert is a perfect combination of tender apples and flaky pastry. With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning tart that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 3-4 apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place onto the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Arrange apple mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the apples, pressing gently to seal. Brush with melted butter and beaten egg for a golden glaze.
5. 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
Savor the sweet-tart flavor of fresh raspberries in this classic French dessert, Clafoutis. This quick and easy recipe yields a deliciously tender and fruity treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Gently fold in raspberries.
5. Pour batter into a 9-inch (23cm) round baking dish or individual ramekins.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving warm, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Effortless Madeleines
These delicate cakes are a classic French treat that requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, madeleines are characterized by their shell-like shape and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Flavorings of your choice (e.g., vanilla extract or lemon zest)
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, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
No-Bake French Lemon Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this no-bake French lemon tart, featuring a silky lemon curd and a buttery cookie crust. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you crave a light and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
2. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour heavy cream into egg yolk mixture; whisk until smooth.
5. Pour filling over crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake tart is ready when you are.
Easy Pear Tarte Tatin
This classic French dessert gets a modern twist with this simplified recipe. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying the sweet and buttery flavors of tarte tatin in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and cook until dissolved.
3. Arrange pears in the skillet, cut side up. Cook for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with flour and salt.
4. Roll out pie crust and place over pears. Trim edges to fit.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Invert onto a serving plate and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Vanilla Éclairs
Elevate your pastry game with these classic French éclairs filled with a creamy vanilla bean-infused custard.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– Vanilla bean paste or extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add lukewarm milk and mix until smooth.
3. Beat in egg until fully incorporated. Melted butter and vanilla bean paste/extract.
4. Pipe the mixture onto prepared baking sheet in long, thin strips (about 1 inch wide).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow éclairs to cool completely before filling with your choice of creamy vanilla custard.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Strawberry Charlotte
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this effortless dessert that combines fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and ladyfingers. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or impromptu celebrations!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until combined.
2. Arrange half of the ladyfingers in a single layer on a serving dish or individual cups.
3. Top with sliced strawberries, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Spread half of the whipped cream over the strawberries.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 for the second layer.
6. Dust the top with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in under 30 minutes.
French Yogurt Cake
This classic French cake recipe uses yogurt instead of butter to create a moist and tender crumb, perfect for any occasion. With its subtle tanginess and sweet flavor, it’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup plain yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Almond Financiers
Financiers are classic French cakes that require only a few ingredients and minimal effort, yet yield impressive results. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snack time or as a sweet accompaniment to your favorite cup of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon whole milk, at room temperature
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, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Simple Cherry Clafoutis
This classic French dessert is a delightful combination of sweet cherries, sugar, and eggs baked to perfection. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering clafoutis that’s perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the flour and salt; whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in the cherries and melted butter.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) baking dish or individual ramekins.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Chocolate Soufflé
This Quick Chocolate Soufflé recipe yields a rich, velvety chocolate dessert with a light and airy texture. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on the fly!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Add cocoa powder and whisk until well combined.
4. Pour in the melted chocolate and whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and set.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
French Butter Cookies (Sablés)
These delicate cookies are a staple of French patisserie, with a crumbly texture and subtle butter flavor. Perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, these Sablés are a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Easy Profiteroles
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these airy, creamy French profiteroles that are surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (120g) whole milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
• Filling of your choice (e.g. whipped cream, chocolate chips)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, and salt. Add yeast and stir until dissolved.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs until light. Gradually add flour, confectioners’ sugar, and milk mixture; mix until smooth.
4. Pipe or spoon dough into small balls (about 1-inch / 2.5cm in diameter). Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden.
6. Allow to cool completely before filling with your chosen filling.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Simple Crêpes Suzette
Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this classic French dessert: crêpes suzette! Thin, delicate pancakes are filled with a sweet and tangy orange butter sauce, making for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or orange liqueur (optional)
– Fresh raspberries or strawberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt to form the crêpe batter.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in 1/4 cup of batter and cook for 1-2 minutes, until edges start to curl.
3. Loosen the crêpe with a spatula and flip. Cook for another minute.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and melted butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add Grand Marnier or orange liqueur, if using. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Place a cooked crêpe on a plate, spoon the orange butter sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooking time for both crêpes and sauce)
Quick Mille-Feuille
Quick Mille-Feuille Recipe
A classic French pastry gets a speedy makeover with this simplified recipe for Quick Mille-Feuille. Layers of puff pastry, pastry cream, and fruit preserve come together in a delightful dessert that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
2. Cut into rectangles, about 4 inches wide and 6 inches long. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
4. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract.
5. Assemble the mille-feuille by spreading a layer of jam on top of a cooled puff pastry rectangle, then topping with whipped cream.
6. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
French Floating Island (Île Flottante)
A classic French dessert, Île Flottante is a heavenly combination of creamy custard and caramelized sugar, floating on a sea of crème anglaise. This simple yet impressive dessert is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramelized sugar (see note)
– Crème anglaise (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 vanilla extract. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the custard thickens.
5. Strain the custard into a clean bowl and let it cool.
6. To assemble, place a spoonful of crème anglaise on a serving dish, followed by a dollop of cooled custard. Top with caramelized sugar.
Crème Anglaise:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Combine cream and sugar in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Summary
Indulge in the sweet world of French patisserie with these 18 easy and delicious dessert recipes perfect for beginners! From classic Crème Brûlée to quick and effortless Madeleines, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at a simple French Apple Tart or indulge in a rich No-Bake Lemon Tart. These authentic French desserts are sure to impress, with flavors ranging from sweet strawberries to tangy raspberries. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating mouthwatering treats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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