Description
Pear Almond Cake is a moist, nutty, and lightly sweet cake that combines ripe pears with almond flour and a hint of vanilla. The ground almonds add a delicate richness, while the pears provide natural sweetness and a tender texture. Perfect for tea time, dessert, or a special occasion, this rustic yet elegant cake is naturally gluten-free (when made with almond flour only) and pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients for Pear Almond Cake
-
1 cup (100 g) almond flour (or finely ground almonds)
-
½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend, optional)
-
¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
-
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
-
2 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp baking powder
-
¼ tsp salt
-
2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly
-
2 tbsp sliced almonds (for topping)
-
2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
-
Cream butter and sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla.
-
Combine dry ingredients (almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt). Slowly fold into the wet mixture.
-
Spread batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Arrange pear slices on top in a circular pattern.
-
Sprinkle sliced almonds over the pears.
-
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Cool for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings
-
Makes 8 slices
Notes
-
For extra flavor, add ½ tsp almond extract along with vanilla.
-
Use firm but ripe pears (like Bosc or Bartlett) for the best texture.
-
The cake can be made a day in advance — it becomes more flavorful as it rests.
-
Tips
-
Toast the almond flour lightly before using for a deeper nutty flavor.
-
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche for a decadent dessert.
-
If using very juicy pears, pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
Nutritional Info (per slice, 1 of 8)
-
Calories: ~265
-
Protein: 5 g
-
Fat: 15 g
-
Carbohydrates: 28 g
-
Fiber: 3 g
-
Sugar: 17 g
Health Benefits
-
Almonds provide vitamin E, healthy fats, and protein.
-
Pears add fiber, vitamin C, and natural sweetness.
-
Lower in gluten (if made with almond flour only).
-
Satisfying dessert without being overly heavy.
❓ Q/A
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with more almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Q: Can I use canned pears?
A: Fresh pears are best, but canned (drained well) can work if you’re in a pinch.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep covered at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Use plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.