Cherry Clafoutis

INGREDIENTS

• 3 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup plus 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large whole eggs
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
• Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
• 1 pound fresh, ripe cherries, stemmed and pitted
• 1/4 cup kirsch or brandy (optional)