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Caramelized Pear Upside-Down Cake

A deliciously moist upside-down cake topped with caramelized pear slices and a rich brown sugar glaze. A comforting dessert perfect for fall or winter gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for topping)
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for cake)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter and stir in brown sugar. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Pour mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  3. Arrange pear slices over the caramel in a circular pattern. Set aside.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  5. In a separate large bowl, cream 1/2 cup butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  7. Mix in sour cream, followed by the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until smooth.
  8. Carefully spread the batter over the pears in the pan.
  9. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Remove parchment and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use firm, ripe pears like Bosc or Anjou for best texture.
  • Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
  • Ensure the caramel is evenly spread to prevent sticking when inverted.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: pear cake, upside-down cake, caramelized pear dessert, fall cake, moist cake, brown sugar glaze