Pear Upside-Down Cake

Delightful Pear Upside-Down Cake for a Cozy Treat

There’s something truly comforting about a homemade cake, and this Pear Upside-Down Cake is no exception! With its soft, moist texture and the sweet caramelized pears on top, it makes for a beautiful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this cake is bound to impress. Plus, it’s currently trending because it marries simplicity with a gorgeous presentation, making it a perfect choice for cozy baking days at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Pear Upside-Down Cake, gather the following ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56 grams)
  • 1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar (100 grams)
  • 3 ripe pears, peeled and cored
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (190 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (112 grams)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (120 ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

How to Make Pear Upside-Down Cake

  1. In a skillet over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar until it’s fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool a bit.
  2. Arrange the pear wedges over the brown-sugar mixture in the skillet.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. In another bowl, cream together 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the granulated sugar until it becomes fluffy and light.
  6. Mix in the vanilla extract and then add the egg yolks one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
  7. Starting with the milk, alternately add the flour mixture and mix until everything is just incorporated.
  8. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until they reach stiff peaks.
  9. Fold the beaten egg whites gently into the cake batter until fully combined.
  10. Spread the batter evenly over the pears in the skillet.
  11. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
  12. Once done, allow the cake to cool for a few minutes, then invert it onto a serving dish. You can serve it warm or let it come to room temperature.

Why Everyone Is Loving This Pear Upside-Down Cake

Recently, there’s been a surge of interest in old-fashioned recipes like this Pear Upside-Down Cake. This trend is likely driven by a desire for comforting, homemade treats that remind us of family gatherings and simpler times. Plus, with fall upon us, the cozy flavors of pears and warm spices are very much in demand. People are looking for ways to savor seasonal ingredients, and this cake wonderfully showcases the sweet juiciness of ripe pears.

Best Ways to Serve It

This Pear Upside-Down Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in numerous ways:

  • Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
  • Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast option.
  • Pair it with whipped cream or crème fraîche to elevate its taste and texture.
  • It can be a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table or any special gathering.

Helpful Tricks

  • Storage: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the pears beautifully.
  • Serving Ideas: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra sweet touch.

Pear Upside-Down Cake: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pineapples, peaches, or apples.

How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is ready when it’s golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

What can I serve with this cake?
It pairs beautifully with ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt for a lighter option.

Now that you have this easy Pear Upside-Down Cake recipe in your arsenal, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Your home will smell absolutely divine, and your taste buds will thank you for this delicious treat!