Name: Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 pears, thinly sliced; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for batter); 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the soft, sweet flavors of fresh pears with a rich, moist cake. This cake is an excellent option for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners, filling your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas as it bakes. The caramelized pears on top not only look stunning but offer a deliciously sweet contrast to the spicy cinnamon and nutmeg notes in the cake.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 290
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 13g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake stands out for its unique twist on a classic dessert. The nearly caramelized pear slices create a delicious finish that’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply flavorful. Each bite combines the moistness of the cake with the tender pears and a hint of spices, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cake is sure to impress both family and guests alike.

How to Make Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. This will ensure your cake comes out easily once it’s baked and cooled.

Step 2: Mixing the Topping

In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of brown sugar over medium heat until the mixture becomes bubbly and smooth. Pour this caramel mixture into your prepared cake pan, making sure to cover the bottom evenly. Arrange the thinly sliced pears in a circular pattern on top of the caramel, ensuring they look lovely for presentation.

Step 3: Mixing the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. In another bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter with 2/3 cup of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Add in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is combined.

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup of milk. Stir until the batter is just combined; be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.

Step 4: Baking

Spoon the batter over the pears in the cake pan, gently spreading it evenly across the surface. Bake your cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when the cake is ready to be removed.

Step 5: Cooling and Inverting

Once the cake is baked, cool it in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate, allowing the caramelized pears to sit beautifully on top. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature to fully enjoy its flavors.

How to Serve Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts can also introduce some exciting textures, perfecting your dessert presentation.

How to Store Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

If you have leftovers, store the Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake; simply wrap it tightly in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will last for about three months.

Expert Tips for Perfect Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

Choose ripe but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape while cooking.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a touch of orange zest to the batter.
If you want to make this cake ahead of time, it can be baked and inverted a day prior; just reheat in the oven before serving.
Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
If you prefer a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.

Delicious Variations

Ginger Pear Version: Add some candied ginger to the batter for an unexpected flavor twist.
Spiced Apple Version: Swap out pears for apples in the same method for a classic apple upside down cake.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate some finely chopped nuts into the cake batter for added crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pears. Just make sure to drain them well and reduce the amount of sugar in the topping slightly.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
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 just a few moist crumbs.
Can I make substitution for butter?
Yes! You can use coconut oil or vegetable oil in place of butter, though the flavor may vary slightly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover cake?
Wrap slices in foil and reheat in a warm oven (about 300°F) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave them for about 30 seconds.

Conclusion

This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake is not only easy to make but also incredibly rewarding in taste and visual appeal. With its warm spices and decadent topping, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, get your baking pan ready, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful cake. You won’t regret it!