Super Moist Pear Cake
This Super Moist Pear Cake blends fragrant, ripe pears into a tender, buttery cake, creating a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 1/4 cups cake or all-purpose flour, sifted to ensure a light texture
- 1 1/2 cups fine granulated white sugar for sweetness
- 1/2 cup soft, unsalted butter creates a rich base
- 1/3 cup canola oil or vegetable oil adds moisture
- 3 teaspoons baking powder for leavening
- 1-2 tablespoons vanilla extract for warmth
- 4 large eggs binding and richness
- 1/2 cup whole fat milk adds creaminess
- 3 large ripe pears, peeled and thinly sliced the star of the show!
- 1/8 teaspoon salt to balance sweetness
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, brightens flavor
- 2 tablespoons confectioner sugar for dusting for presentation
- 1/4 cup brown sugar for caramel notes
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon adds warmth and depth
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice the pears thinly.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, whip together the sugar and unsalted butter until the mixture is well combined and fluffy (about 1 minute).
- Add the vanilla extract, optional lemon zest, and eggs. Mix on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the batter becomes pale and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in the baking powder, sifted flour, and a pinch of salt. Then add the milk and oil while mixing on low speed for another minute until the batter thickens.
Baking
- Prepare a 10 x 3 inch round springform pan by lining it with parchment paper and greasing it.
- Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Layer the sliced pears over the batter, and sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar on top.
- Bake in the oven for 1 hour, covering loosely with aluminum foil if the cake starts to brown too quickly.
- Check for doneness using a wooden skewer; it should come out clean from the center.
- Remove from the oven and cover with a kitchen towel. Allow to cool for up to 1 hour before dusting with confectioner sugar and serving.
Notes
Consider sifting your flour for a lighter texture. Fresh, ripe pears are key to moisture and sweetness. Variations include adding nutmeg or walnuts for crunch.