French apple tart

Quick Dessert: Cake with Caramelized Pears

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

I present to you a delicious and simple recipe for a cake with caramelized pears, perfect for impressing family or friends. This recipe combines the fluffy texture of the cake with the intense sweetness of the caramelized pears, creating an unforgettable dessert. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 100 g margarine (do not use more to achieve the perfect texture)
- 100 g sugar (be careful, not 150 g, to maintain the sweet balance)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (for an inviting aroma)
- A pinch of salt (salt intensifies the flavor)
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 200 g flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture)
- 1 packet of baking powder (source of aeration)
- 150 ml milk (you can also use plant-based milk for a lactose-free option)
- 3 large pears (choose well-ripened but firm pears)
- 50 g sugar for caramelizing

Step by step:

1. Preparing the batter:
In a large bowl, combine the soft margarine at room temperature with 100 g sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to mix the ingredients until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous composition. This is when the margarine will start to become fluffy, which will contribute to aerating the cake.

2. Adding the eggs:
Gradually add the two eggs, mixing well after each addition. The eggs must be well incorporated into the mixture, providing additional moisture and structure.

3. Combining the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the batter. Gradually add the flour mixture to the margarine composition, alternating with the milk. Mix gently until you obtain a homogeneous batter, but do not overmix to maintain the fluffy texture.

4. Caramelizing the pears:
In a pan, melt 50 g sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns golden. Add the sliced pears and mix well, letting them caramelize for 5-7 minutes. This process will release the natural juice of the pears, enriching the dessert with flavors.

5. Assembling:
In a loaf pan lined with baking paper, add a layer of caramelized pears, then pour the cake batter over them. You can add a few slices of pear on top for an attractive appearance.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium) and bake the cake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. If you notice it browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.

7. Cooling and serving:
After the cake is ready, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. Serve it plain or with a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Variation suggestion: You can replace the pears with apples or peaches to create a different version of this quick dessert. Also, add nuts or almonds for a delicious crunch.

This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, perfect for any occasion. I invite you to enjoy its aroma and taste, and your feedback will always be appreciated!