Pear Cake

Pear Cake - A Fruity and Aromatic Delight

Who doesn't love a fluffy and tasty cake, full of fresh aromas and delicious flavor? Pear cake is a perfect choice, not only for its wonderful taste but also because it is a simple and quick dessert recipe, ideal for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a gathering with friends or at a festive meal, this dessert will surely impress everyone.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients

- 6 fresh eggs
- 8 ripe pears (choose pears that are soft to the touch for a wonderful taste)
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 and a half cups of flour
- 1 cup (of coffee) of oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can also use olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A piece of chocolate (about 100 g, you can opt for dark, milk, or even white chocolate)
- 2 tablespoons of semolina (to help absorb the fruit juices)
- 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar (to sprinkle on top)
- 2-3 tablespoons of powdered vanilla sugar (for decoration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough Base
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Use a large, clean bowl for the egg whites and another for the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until they form a firm foam. This is a crucial step, as well-beaten foam will make the cake fluffy and airy.

2. Adding the Sugar
Once the egg whites are well beaten, add the sugar and vanilla sugar in a rain-like fashion. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes shiny and firm.

3. Incorporating the Yolks
Now, add the yolks one at a time, mixing gently. Add 6 tablespoons of water alternately with the oil. This will help create a soft and moist texture for your cake.

4. Flour and Baking Powder
Sift the flour together with the baking powder to avoid lumps. Incorporate the flour into the mixture, mixing with a spatula to keep the air from the egg whites.

5. Preparing the Baking Tray
Line a baking tray with greased aluminum foil or use a baking sheet. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking to the tray and to ensure easy removal.

6. Preparing the Pears
Peel the pears and cut them into small cubes. Make sure they are ripe so they caramelize during baking.

7. Assembling the Cake
Pour the dough mixture into the tray, then add the pear cubes on top. Sprinkle the semolina, grated chocolate, and granulated sugar on top for extra flavor and texture.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cake for about 20 minutes at a high temperature, then reduce the temperature to 160°C and continue baking for another 30 minutes. Do the toothpick test to check if it's baked: insert a toothpick in the middle of the cake, and if it comes out clean, it's done.

9. Cooling and Serving
After the cake is baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the tray. Once completely cooled, cut it into 4-5 cm squares. Sprinkle powdered vanilla sugar on top for a decorative effect and a sweet taste.

Serving Suggestions
Pear cake pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Alternative Fruit Variation
If you want to experiment, this recipe is adaptable! You can use blackberries, peaches, or apples. Each fruit will bring a unique note, transforming the cake into a completely different dessert.

Nutritional Benefits
Pears are rich in fiber and vitamins, excellent for digestion and heart health. Additionally, the cake contains protein from the eggs, and the oil provides healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of sugar? Yes, you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste.
- What can I do if I don't have oil? You can use melted butter, but be sure to let it cool before adding it.
- Is the cake vegan? This recipe is not vegan, but you can replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water or with soy yogurt.

Estimated Calories
A serving of pear cake contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a healthier choice compared to other fat-rich desserts.

Conclusion
Pear cake is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings a touch of warmth and joy to any home. I hope this recipe inspires you to create a wonderful dessert, full of flavors and beautiful memories. Enjoy!