Jacques Torres’ Fig Clafoutis Tart Steals the Holiday Show

Every year when the holidays arrive, Jacques Torres returns to a dessert that tastes like his beloved France dressed up for the season: a Fig Clafoutis Tart.  Ripe Black Mission figs nestled into almond cream, baked in a buttery tart shell, give him exactly what he loves most this time of year: simplicity, generosity, and a little surprise in every slice. 

In the Taste of Home feature This Is the One Dessert Mr. Chocolate Bakes Every Holiday Season, the Fig Clafoutis Tart quietly steals the show. It captures Jacques Torres’ philosophy of keeping things simple and joyful in the kitchen, letting fresh, in-season ingredients do most of the talking.

This is the dessert he returns to when he wants something nostalgic and festive, but still light on fuss. It feels special enough for a holiday table, yet relaxed enough to share after a long meal, surrounded by friends and maybe just one more glass of champagne.