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Pear Upside-Down Cake

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A moist and buttery pear upside-down cake topped with caramelized pears for a beautiful and flavorful dessert. Perfectly spiced and tender with a rich, golden finish.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 medium whole ripe pears
  • 2 ¼ cups cake flour
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
  • ¾ cup granulated white sugar
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 4 whole eggs (at room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
  • ½ cup whole milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
  2. Heat a skillet over low heat and sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of sugar. Let it melt undisturbed until golden brown, then remove from heat. Add 2 tablespoons butter, stir, and pour the caramel into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Peel, core, and slice the pears evenly. Arrange them in a circular pattern over the caramel layer.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  5. In a large bowl, beat ¾ cup butter, white sugar, and brown sugar with a mixer on medium speed for 3–5 minutes until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with milk, mixing on low speed until combined.
  7. Pour the batter over the pears and smooth the top. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes. Release the springform sides, then invert onto a plate and carefully remove the base.
  9. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use ripe but firm pears for best texture.
  • Ensure caramel does not burn; remove from heat as soon as golden.
  • Let the cake rest before inverting to prevent breaking.
  • Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
  • Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

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