Pear Cake Recipe

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If you adore moist, tender cakes that marry delicate fruit flavors with a buttery crumb, then this Pear Cake will quickly become a cherished favorite. It’s a beautifully soft dessert that boasts thin slices of juicy, ripe pear baked right on top, creating a simple yet elegant treat that’s bursting with natural sweetness and comforting warmth in every bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Pear Cake relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. From the light fluffiness lent by baking powder to the creamy tang of sour cream, every component brings this cake to life.

• All-purpose flour (1½ cups): The base that gives your cake its tender structure without any heaviness.
• Baking powder (1½ tsp): Acts as a gentle lift agent, ensuring a light, airy crumb.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Just a pinch to enhance the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• Unsalted butter, softened (½ cup): Adds rich moisture and that buttery depth that makes every slice melt in your mouth.
• Granulated sugar (⅔ cup): Sweetens evenly and helps with a tender texture.
• Large eggs (2): Bind everything together while adding richness.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A fragrant note that complements pear’s natural sweetness beautifully.
• Sour cream (½ cup): Brings a subtle tang and extra moistness to keep the cake soft day after day.
• Ripe pears, peeled and sliced thin (2): The shining stars of this cake, their delicate sweetness turns soft and tender when baked.
• Turbinado or coarse sugar (1 tbsp) for topping: Adds a delightful crunch and a golden shimmer on top.

How to Make Pear Cake

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch cake pan to ensure your cake comes out perfectly and cleanly. This prep sets the stage for an even bake and easy release later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent, allowing the Pear Cake to rise uniformly and develop a tender crumb without any salty surprises.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it traps air that will help your cake become wonderfully airy and soft.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time to maintain the emulsion, followed by the vanilla extract. This layering of wet ingredients builds richness and infuses the cake with subtly sweet vanilla aroma that pairs perfectly with pears.

Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream

Mix in the sour cream gently. Its moist, tangy qualities balance the sweetness and make sure the Pear Cake stays delectably moist and tender, even after cooling.

Step 6: Combine with Dry Ingredients

Fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients carefully, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. Over-mixing at this stage can result in a denser texture, so keep it light and gentle.

Step 7: Arrange Pears and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the surface slightly. Then, neatly arrange the thin pear slices on top to create an inviting pattern. Sprinkle the coarse sugar over the pears to add a lovely golden crunch after baking.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let your Pear Cake cool completely in the pan before slicing to preserve its moist texture and showcase those beautiful baked pear slices.

How to Serve Pear Cake

Garnishes

For an elegant presentation, dust your Pear Cake lightly with powdered sugar just before serving. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of honey elevates its natural sweetness without overpowering the delicate pear flavor.

Side Dishes

This Pear Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a fragrant black tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat. For a more indulgent dessert experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of crème fraîche for creamy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform this Pear Cake for special occasions by adding a handful of toasted walnuts or slivered almonds on top before baking for added texture and nuttiness. For a festive twist, serve slices with a handful of fresh berry compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pear Cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To prolong freshness, refrigeration is okay but allow the cake to come back to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.

Freezing

This Pear Cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving for a freshly baked taste.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to revive that soft, buttery texture and enhance the fragrant pear aroma.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen pears instead of fresh?

Fresh ripe pears are best for the texture and flavor of this Pear Cake, but if you only have canned or frozen, drain them well and pat dry to avoid extra moisture that could make the cake soggy.

What type of pears work best?

Choose firm, ripe varieties like Bosc or Bartlett that hold their shape well when baked and offer a lovely balance of sweetness and slight tartness.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend includes xanthan gum for proper structure, or add some separately.

Is sour cream necessary?

Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that lifts the flavors, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist if you prefer.

How long will the Pear Cake keep fresh?

Stored properly, this Pear Cake stays fresh and delicious for about 2–3 days at room temperature and can last up to a week refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the simple joy of biting into a slice of homemade Pear Cake — it’s comforting, elegant, and so easy to make. Whether you’re treating yourself to a quiet afternoon indulgence or sharing with friends and family, this recipe is destined to bring warm smiles and happy hearts. Give it a try, and watch this humble cake become your new go-to dessert!

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