Pear & ginger cake

Pear and ginger cake: a fragrant delight, easy to prepare

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

The pear and ginger cake is a perfect combination of the juicy sweetness of pears and the spicy aroma of ginger, intertwining into an irresistible dessert. This simple yet refined recipe is sure to delight you, and its aroma will transport you to a world of treats. It is an excellent choice for any occasion or simply to pamper your family on a weekend afternoon.

The history of fruit cakes is an old one, blending cooking traditions passed down from generation to generation. The combination of fruit with dough has been loved over time, and pears, with their delicate texture and sweet taste, have always added a special charm to desserts. Ginger, on the other hand, is a spice used for centuries, known for its health benefits as well as its distinctive aroma.

Necessary ingredients:

- 200 g butter (plus 1 tablespoon for greasing)
- 175 g sugar
- 175 g sifted flour
- 1 tablespoon ginger powder
- 3 eggs
- 3 pears (preferably sweeter varieties, such as Williams or Conference pears)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar for sprinkling

Useful tips about ingredients:

1. Butter: Choose a good quality butter with a high fat content (at least 80%) for a richer and more flavorful cake. Make sure the butter is melted and cooled before using, so it doesn't cook the eggs in the mixture.

2. Sugar: You can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste, but white sugar is also perfect. A combination of both can provide a cake with a complex flavor.

3. Ginger: Ginger powder adds a spicy note. If you want a stronger flavor, you can use freshly grated ginger, but make sure to adjust the amount since it is more concentrated.

4. Pears: Choose ripe but firm pears so they don't fall apart during baking. You can also use other fruits, such as apples or peaches, to experiment with different flavors.

Preparation techniques:

Step 1: Prepare the pan
Start by preparing a 20 cm pan, greasing it with 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Make sure to evenly cover the bottom and sides to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the 200 g of melted (cooled) butter with 175 g of sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to mix the ingredients well until you achieve a smooth mixture. Add the 3 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 3: Incorporating the dry ingredients
Gradually add the sifted flour and ginger powder, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. Ensure there are no lumps and the dough becomes smooth.

Step 4: Pouring the mixture into the pan
Pour the obtained dough into the prepared pan, leveling it with a spatula to ensure an even cake.

Step 5: Arranging the pear slices
Peel the pears and slice them thinly. Arrange them evenly on top of the dough so that each serving has a delicious piece of pear.

Step 6: Finishing
Pour the remaining melted butter over the pear slices and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to achieve a caramelized and crispy crust.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes. Check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Step 8: Cooling and serving
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully remove it and place it on a rack to cool completely. You can dust it with powdered sugar before slicing for an elegant appearance.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace pears with other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with apples, peaches, or even plums, but the baking time may vary depending on the chosen fruits.

2. Can I make this cake without sugar?
You can replace sugar with a natural sweetener (e.g., maple syrup or honey), but keep in mind that the texture and taste may differ.

3. How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze it by cutting it into portions and wrapping it well.

Delicious combinations:

The pear and ginger cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce. Additionally, a cup of aromatic tea or freshly brewed coffee will perfectly complement this dessert. If you want an extra touch, you can add a splash of whipped cream or a berry sauce.

Nutrition and calories:

A serving of cake contains approximately 220-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is an excellent choice for an occasional treat, considering that pears are rich in vitamins and fiber, and ginger brings multiple health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Don't hesitate to try this pear and ginger cake recipe, which not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings a touch of joy in every bite. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity. Enjoy!