Caramel Pear Upside-Down Cake

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This Caramel Pear Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, buttery flavor of caramel with the natural sweetness and juiciness of pears. The cake is incredibly soft and moist, with a tender crumb that perfectly complements the caramelized pears on top. This cake is not only visually stunning with its golden caramelized top but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the 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 canola oil)
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (200g) baking flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Caramel Pear Topping:

  • In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir continuously until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
  • Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch cake pan, spreading it evenly.
  • Arrange the pear slices in a circular pattern over the caramel, making sure they are evenly distributed. Set the pan aside.

2. Make the Cake Batter:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the oil, milk, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, and continue to mix until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together the baking flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.

3. Assemble the Cake:

  • Pour the cake batter over the arranged pears in the cake pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
  • Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and to ensure the batter settles evenly over the pears.

4. Bake the Cake:

  • Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

5. Invert and Serve:

  • After cooling, carefully run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan. Place a serving plate upside-down on top of the cake pan, and then flip the pan over to invert the cake onto the plate.
  • The caramel and pear topping should be beautifully displayed on top. If any pears stick to the pan, simply place them back onto the cake.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

  • This cake can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Possible Questions:

Can I use other fruits instead of pears?

  • Absolutely! This recipe works well with apples, peaches, or even pineapple for a tropical twist.

How do I know when the caramel is ready?

  • The caramel is ready when the mixture is smooth, bubbly, and a rich amber color. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can burn quickly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

  • Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it covered at room temperature to keep it moist.

What if I don’t have a cake pan?

  • You can use a cast-iron skillet or a round baking dish as an alternative.

Cooking Tips:

  • Even Caramelization: Make sure to cook the caramel mixture over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent burning. The goal is a smooth, amber-colored caramel.
  • Arrange Pears Neatly: Take your time to arrange the pears neatly in the pan, as they will be the star of the cake once it’s inverted.
  • Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Storage Tips:

  • Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to refrigerate the cake. Bring it to room temperature before serving, or warm it up slightly in the microwave or oven.
  • Freezing: This cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 22g

Conclusion:

This Caramel Pear Upside-Down Cake is a wonderful dessert that combines the sweet, juicy flavors of pears with the rich, buttery goodness of caramel. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a special treat for yourself. The moist and tender cake, topped with caramelized pears, will surely become a favorite in your home. Plus, with the option to switch up the fruits or add your own twist, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Enjoy every bite!

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