Pear Cake

Fluffy cake with caramelized pears and chocolate glaze

Who doesn't love a cake that combines the fluffy texture of sponge cake with the sweetness of fruits? This pear cake recipe will satisfy both fluffy cake lovers and those who adore fruit tarts. It's a perfect choice for a gathering with friends, an anniversary, or simply to add a touch of sweetness to everyday life. Let's venture into the world of flavors, textures, and colors!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Necessary ingredients

To prepare this delicious pear cake, you will need the following ingredients:

* 5 ripe but firm pears
* 5 large eggs
* 5 tablespoons of sugar
* 5 tablespoons of flour
* 1 teaspoon of baking powder
* 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
* 100 g chocolate (for glazing)
* 1 packet of vanilla pudding + 400 ml milk

Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the pears

Let's start with the pears! Choose ripe but firm pears for the perfect texture. Peel them, then cut them in half lengthwise, removing the seeds. In a skillet, add 2 tablespoons of the mentioned sugar and 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar melts and caramelizes, and the pears become slightly soft and shiny. This step will enhance the flavor of the pears and add a touch of richness to the cake.

2. Arranging the pears in the pan

After caramelizing the pears, prepare a baking dish (about 20x30 cm) by greasing it with butter and dusting with a little flour. Arrange the caramelized pears evenly on the bottom of the dish. This step is crucial as it will create a beautiful appearance for the cake, with the pears being visible on top after inverting.

3. Preparing the sponge cake batter

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the remaining sugar (3 tablespoons) and vanilla extract until you get a frothy mixture that is pale yellow. Add the flour mixed with baking powder, using a spatula to incorporate the ingredients, being careful not to deflate the mixture. This will ensure the sponge cake is light and fluffy.

4. Baking the cake

Carefully pour the sponge cake batter over the pears in the dish, ensuring it covers them evenly. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when it passes the toothpick test – insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

5. Cooling and inverting

Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the dish for about 30 minutes. This step is important to allow the pears to settle and integrate into the sponge cake. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter, so the pear side is on top. Watch how the caramelized pears shine, becoming the stars of this dessert!

6. Chocolate glaze

To add an extra layer of flavor, melt the chocolate in the microwave or in a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the cake, covering it evenly. This layer of chocolate will add a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the pears and make the cake even more appealing.

7. Vanilla pudding

In another bowl, prepare the vanilla pudding according to the instructions on the packet. Once the pudding is ready, carefully pour it over the melted chocolate, ensuring it spreads evenly. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing.

Serving and variations

This caramelized pear cake is served cold, making it ideal to enjoy alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. If you want to experiment, try adding toasted nuts or almonds on top for an extra crunch. You can also use other fruits, such as apples or peaches, to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional benefits

Pears are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, beneficial for digestion and heart health. Eggs provide quality protein, while dark chocolate adds antioxidants and can boost mood. This cake is not just a treat, but also a healthier choice for dessert.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of fruit?
Yes, this recipe is versatile. You can experiment with apples, peaches, or even plums.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reducing the amount of sugar in the batter and using dark chocolate can help achieve a more balanced flavor.

3. Can I prepare this cake in advance?
Yes, the cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain moisture.

4. What drinks pair well with this cake?
A black tea or a flavored coffee pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake, but a sweet wine could also add a touch of elegance.

Personal note

This pear cake is, for me, a symbol of family moments spent together, when we gather around the table and savor each bite with smiles and stories. I encourage you to make it with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories.

Enjoy this fluffy cake with caramelized pears and chocolate glaze, and each bite will be an explosion of flavors and textures!