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Pear and Almond Cake

Pear and Almond Cake
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Pear and Almond Cake is a moist, tender, and naturally gluten-free dessert that perfectly balances the juicy sweetness of fresh pears with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds. Its soft crumb and elegant taste make it ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to relaxed afternoons. Simple pantry ingredients combine effortlessly for an impressive, cozy treat with layers of delightful texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruit

  • 3 ripe but firm fresh pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • Zest of 1 lemon (or 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice)

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups almond meal/flour (finely ground almonds)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter or vegetable oil, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) sugar (or honey/maple syrup as alternatives)
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup almond slices
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pears: Peel, core, and slice your fresh pears into evenly thick pieces to ensure they cook evenly within the batter and remain tender without becoming mushy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together almond meal, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and prevent clumps.
  3. Cream butter and sugar: Using a mixer or sturdy whisk, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy, creating a creamy base that traps air for a tender cake.
  4. Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, followed by vanilla extract, mixing gently but thoroughly after each addition to maintain a smooth batter consistency.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Fold the almond mixture carefully into the wet ingredients, avoiding overmixing while ensuring all dry flour is just incorporated to keep the crumb tender.
  6. Fold in the pears and lemon zest: Gently fold in the sliced pears along with fresh lemon zest or juice, adding a bright and fresh note that harmonizes the flavors.
  7. Pour and garnish: Transfer the batter into a prepared cake pan and sprinkle almond slices evenly on top for added texture and visual appeal.
  8. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, letting flavors settle and texture firm up perfectly.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm pears to avoid excess moisture and sogginess.
  • Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and tender crumb.
  • Bring eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing for better texture.
  • Use high-quality almond meal or freshly ground almonds for improved flavor and crumb.
  • Check the cake for doneness starting 5 minutes before the end of baking time to prevent overbaking.

Nutrition

Keywords: pear cake, almond cake, gluten-free dessert, moist cake, nutty dessert, fruit cake, pear almond dessert

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/pear-and-almond-cake/