Why You’ll Love Chocolate Cake with Pears Recipe
This cake has a soft, moist chocolate crumb with sweet pears baked right on top.
The Greek yogurt and oil help keep the cake tender without making it heavy.
The pears add natural sweetness and a delicate fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
It is great for dessert, afternoon coffee, holidays, or a cozy weekend bake.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ cups cake flour
¼ cup Dutch processed cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated white sugar
1 whole egg, at room temperature
2 egg yolks, at room temperature
⅓ cup Greek yogurt
¼ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
¼ cup vegetable oil
½ cup chocolate chunks, divided
2 medium pears
2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the sugar, egg, and egg yolks. Beat with a hand mixer until light and creamy.
Add the Greek yogurt, milk, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil. Beat until just combined.
Melt ⅓ cup of the chocolate chunks in a microwave-safe bowl. Let it cool slightly, then mix it into the wet ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, mixing on low speed until well combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top.
Peel, core, and slice the pears. Arrange the slices over the cake batter.
Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks and chopped hazelnuts over the top.
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for 15 minutes on a wire rack. Carefully release the springform pan sides, then slice and serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10
Prep time: 25 minutes
Bake time: 50 to 55 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Use dark chocolate chunks for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Swap hazelnuts with almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm flavor.
Use ripe but firm pears so they hold their shape while baking.
Drizzle the cooled cake with melted chocolate for a richer finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.
You can also enjoy this cake chilled, especially after the flavors have settled overnight.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, but the cake may be slightly denser. Cake flour gives a softer, lighter texture.
What kind of pears work best?
Firm pears such as Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett work well because they bake nicely without becoming too mushy.
Do I need to peel the pears?
Peeling is recommended for a softer texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer.
Can I use regular cocoa powder?
Yes, but Dutch processed cocoa gives the cake a smoother, deeper chocolate flavor.
Can I make this cake without hazelnuts?
Yes, simply leave them out or replace them with another nut.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate chunks?
Yes, chocolate chips work well in this recipe.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. The flavor often becomes even better the next day.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I serve with chocolate pear cake?
Serve it with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Chocolate Cake with Pears is a simple yet impressive dessert with rich cocoa flavor, tender fruit, and a soft, moist crumb. It is perfect for sharing and makes a beautiful treat for any occasion.
