Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake
A delightful dessert that combines tender ripe pears and aromatic spices in a visually stunning cake.
Ingredients
For the pear topping
- 2-3 pieces ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Anjou recommended) Provides sweetness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter Melted for caramelized sugar layer.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar For gooey sweetness.
For the cake batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Base for the cake.
- 1 tsp baking powder For the perfect rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda Balances sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon Warm aroma.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg Cozy spice.
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger Adds a spicy kick.
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 tsp salt Balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) For creamy batter.
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar Sweetens without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs Bind ingredients.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Elevates the flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk Adds moisture.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) For crunch.
- 1 tbsp bourbon, spiced rum, or maple syrup (optional) For an indulgent twist.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter with 1/2 cup brown sugar until bubbling, then pour into the prepared pan.
- Peel, core, and slice the pears, arranging them over the sugary mixture.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, blending until smooth.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter over the arranged pears, smoothing the top.
Baking
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool for 15 minutes, then gently invert onto a serving plate.
Notes
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Check for doneness slightly before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.