Yogurt cake

Yogurt and Caramelized Pear Cake: A Refreshing Delicacy for Special Moments

Who doesn't love a dessert that surprises with its freshness and refinement? Today, I invite you to prepare a yogurt and caramelized pear cake, a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for any occasion. This dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a true visual pleasure, with layers of creamy yogurt and delicate pears, all set on a bed of crunchy biscuits. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 5 hours
Total time: 5 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 10

Ingredients:

For the biscuit base:
- 300 g plain biscuits (preferably butter-flavored)
- 200 g unsalted butter

For the yogurt cream:
- 500 g buffalo yogurt (or Greek yogurt for a similar texture)
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 200 g sugar
- 4 sheets of gelatin
- 50 ml water

For the caramelized pears:
- 3 pears (preferably sweet and juicy varieties)
- 300 ml red wine (a semi-dry wine will provide a balanced flavor)
- 2 tablespoons sugar

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the biscuit base:
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Crush the plain biscuits in a food processor or with a rolling pin until you achieve a fine texture. In a bowl, combine the crushed biscuits with the melted butter, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This will be the crunchy base of your cake.

2. Forming the base:
Pour the biscuit and butter mixture into a round baking pan with removable sides (24 cm diameter is ideal). Press down well with a spatula or the bottom of a glass to form an even crust. Place the pan in the oven for about 5 minutes, until the crust turns slightly golden. Let it cool.

3. Preparing the yogurt cream:
In a bowl, place the buffalo yogurt and add the sugar. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. In another pot, heat the liquid cream until just about to boil, then remove it from heat. Add the gelatin sheets, which have been soaked in 50 ml of cold water, and stir until completely dissolved. Allow to cool slightly before incorporating into the yogurt mixture.

4. Assembling the cake:
On the cooled biscuit base, pour an even layer of yogurt cream. Then, add a layer of caramelized pears (see the next step for their preparation) and cover with another layer of cream. Continue alternating layers, finishing with a layer of yogurt cream. Decorate with remaining pears, sliced.

5. Preparing the caramelized pears:
Peel the pears and cut them into cubes. In a pot, add the red wine and sugar, bringing them to a boil. Add the pear cubes and let them simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the pears become tender and absorb the flavors of the wine. Allow to cool before using.

6. Cooling the cake:
Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the gelatin to set and firm up the cream.

7. Serving:
When you're ready to serve, carefully open the removable-sided pan. You can decorate the cake with a bit of whipped cream and a few fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch. Cut into slices and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy yogurt and aromatic caramelized pears.

Tips and Variations:
- You can add a splash of vanilla extract to the yogurt cream for an extra flavor.
- Instead of pears, you can use apples or peaches, depending on the season and preferences.
- The cake pairs wonderfully with a caramel or chocolate sauce that can be drizzled over the cake slices before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:
This yogurt cake is a healthier choice compared to many other desserts, having a lower fat content due to the buffalo yogurt and liquid cream. Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which contribute to digestive health, while pears add essential fiber and vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use regular yogurt instead of buffalo yogurt? Yes, Greek or regular yogurt are excellent alternatives, but buffalo yogurt provides a creamier texture.
- How long can I keep the cake in the fridge? The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh to savor its optimal texture.
- Is this dessert suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using plant-based yogurt and cream, but make sure to replace the gelatin with a vegan gelling agent like agar-agar.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! This yogurt and caramelized pear cake will surely become a favorite in your home, bringing a touch of sweetness and refreshment to every occasion. Enjoy!