Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

• Butter: 100 g (7 tablespoons), softened
• Powdered Sugar: 50 g (1/4 cup)
• Oil: 3 tablespoons
• Salt: A pinch
• Vanilla Sugar: 8 g (1 tablespoon)
• Cornstarch: 50 g (1/3 cup)
• Egg: 1 (large)
• Baking Powder: A pinch
• 00 Flour: 250 g (2 cups)

For the Almond Filling:

• Butter: 150 g (2/3 cup), softened
• Granulated Sugar: 150 g (3/4 cup)
• Almonds: 150 g (1 1/4 cups, finely ground)
• Eggs: 2 (large)
• Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
• Flour: 35 g (1/4 cup)

For the Topping:

• Apricot Jam: 100 g (1/3 cup)
• Pears in Syrup: Sliced
• Sliced Almonds: To taste
• Powdered Sugar: For dusting

Steps to Make Classic Almond and Pear Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the oil, salt, vanilla sugar, and egg, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the cornstarch, baking powder, and flour. Mix until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Make the Almond Filling

5. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a clean bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
6. Add Eggs and Lemon Zest: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the lemon zest.
7. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Fold in the ground almonds and flour until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

8. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your tart pan. Press it gently into the pan and trim the edges.
9. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the almond filling over the pastry base.
10. Arrange the Pears: Drain the pears from the syrup and slice them thinly. Arrange the slices in a decorative pattern over the almond filling.

Step 4: Bake the Tart

11. Bake: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden.
12. Glaze the Tart: Warm the apricot jam slightly and brush it over the tart while it’s still warm to create a shiny glaze.
13. Add Toppings: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added texture and flavor.

Step 5: Serve

14. Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing to serve.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Information

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Classic Almond and Pear Tart has endured through the years because it combines simple ingredients with a refined technique to create something extraordinary. This tart’s versatility allows it to be adapted for any season, using pears, apples, or even berries. It appeals to both casual home bakers and professionals for its balance of elegance and ease.

The almond filling, enriched with butter and ground almonds, adds a luxurious texture and flavor. Paired with the natural sweetness of pears, it becomes a dessert that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Its golden crust and delicate glaze evoke memories of traditional bakeries, making it a nostalgic treat that never goes out of style.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

1. Can I make the tart ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the tart a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and glaze it just before serving.

2. What other fruits can I use?

While pears are classic, you can substitute them with apples, peaches, or even berries for a seasonal twist.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature or gently warm before serving.

4. Can I use store-bought pastry?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought shortcrust pastry. However, making it from scratch enhances the flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use Cold Butter: When making the pastry, ensure the butter is cold to achieve a flaky texture.
2. Drain the Pears: Make sure to thoroughly drain the pears to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
3. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough prevents it from shrinking during baking.
4. Even Slices: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the pears evenly for a professional look.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked tart (with filling) for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

The Classic Almond and Pear Tart is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. From the moment you start blending the butter and sugar for the crust to the final dusting of powdered sugar on the baked tart, this recipe invites you to slow down and savor the art of baking. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to transform basic ingredients into a sophisticated treat that delights the senses.

Every bite of this tart is a celebration of textures and flavors. The buttery crust crumbles delicately, the almond filling is rich and nutty, and the pears add a tender sweetness that ties everything together. It’s a dessert that doesn’t just satisfy a sweet tooth but also warms the heart.

Whether you’re creating it for a festive occasion, a special dinner, or simply to indulge in the joy of baking, this tart will always leave a lasting impression. It’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again, not just for its deliciousness but for the memories it creates. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking journey that will leave you—and anyone lucky enough to share it—smiling.