Indulge in the delightful flavors of a homemade pear cake that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with a moist, fluffy texture. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for dessert lovers and will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Nutritional Value

Before we dive into the recipe, here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of this pear cake (per serving):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 15g

Packed with fresh pears, this cake also provides vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C and potassium.

Ingredients

To make this delicious pear cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups peeled and diced ripe pears (about 2 medium pears)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pear cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate Sour Cream: Mix in the sour cream until well combined.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
7. Add Pears: Gently fold in the diced pears and cinnamon, if using.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your pear cake! Here are some delicious variations:

• Spiced Pear Cake: Add nutmeg and cloves for a spicier flavor.
• Nutty Pear Cake: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Chocolate Pear Cake: Mix in chocolate chips for a delightful chocolate-pearl combination.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Yes! Apples or peaches work great as alternatives.

2. How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze the pear cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, or bake the cake a day in advance.

Conclusion

This pear cake recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pears while treating your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Try it out today and savor every bite!