Caramel pear upside-down cake is a deliciously moist and juicy dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel with the natural flavors of pears. Perfectly tender, this cake is a delightful treat for any occasion, whether it’s a special gathering or just an indulgent dessert at home. The caramelized pears sitting on top of the soft, fluffy cake give it a beautiful presentation, while the combination of sugar, butter, and pears creates a rich, buttery flavor in every bite. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. This recipe will guide you step by step to create a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Caramel and Pear Topping:

2 large pears (peeled, cored, and sliced)

4 tablespoons (50g) butter
1/2 cup brown sugar

For the Cake Batter:

2 eggs
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup oil (vegetable or sunflower oil)

1/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups (200g) baking flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel and Pear Topping

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir continuously until it dissolves and forms a smooth caramel, about 2-3 minutes.

Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Arrange the pear slices on top of the caramel in a circular pattern, making sure they overlap slightly for a beautiful finish. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.

Slowly add the oil, milk, and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until everything is well combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth batter forms. Avoid overmixing to ensure the cake stays light and fluffy.
Gently pour the batter over the pear and caramel layer in the cake pan, using a spatula to smooth the surface if necessary.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Carefully run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it. Place a serving plate on top of the cake pan and invert the cake onto the plate. The caramelized pears will now be on top of the cake.

Step 4: Serve

Slice the cake and serve it warm. You can enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Cooking Tips

Choosing the Pears: Use ripe but firm pears for the best results. Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou varieties work well as they hold their shape while baking.
Prevent Overmixing: When mixing the dry ingredients into the wet, stir until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Caramel Consistency: Be careful not to overcook the caramel. It should be smooth and glossy but not too thick or it will harden and become difficult to spread on the bottom of the pan.
Serving Options: While this cake is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a light whipped cream topping.

Storage

Room Temperature: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The caramel and pears will help keep the cake moist.

Refrigeration: If you plan to keep it for longer, refrigerate the cake for up to 4-5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving or gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back the caramel’s richness.
Freezing: You can also freeze this cake for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 10 servings)

Calories: 280 kcal

Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 13g

Sugar: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Calcium: 70mg

Vitamin C: 3mg
Iron: 1.2mg

This caramel pear upside-down cake provides a sweet yet balanced indulgence. It’s rich in flavor but not overly sugary, making it a relatively lighter dessert option.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pears with other fruits?
- Yes, apples, peaches, or even pineapples can be substituted for pears. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the cake.

Can I use a different type of sugar?
- You can use white sugar instead of brown sugar for the caramel, but brown sugar adds a deeper, more robust flavor. Coconut sugar can also be used for a healthier option.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture.
Can I make this cake vegan?
- For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan?
- Be sure to grease your pan well before adding the caramel. Using parchment paper on the bottom can also help prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Caramel pear upside-down cake is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. The contrast of the sweet, caramelized pears and the soft, airy cake makes it a favorite treat for many. Whether served warm on its own or with a side of ice cream, this cake is sure to impress. The best part is how easy it is to make! Even if you’re not an experienced baker, the step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better. Perfect for casual dinners or special occasions, this cake will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this soft, juicy, and delicious treat!

Pin3