Chocolate Pear Cake

This Chocolate Pear Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the natural sweetness of pears. Topped with a creamy frosting and garnished with pear slices, it is both elegant and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate and pears are a timeless pairing—the deep cocoa flavor balances beautifully with the delicate fruitiness of pears. This cake is moist, lightly spiced, and perfect for showcasing seasonal pears. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed as an everyday treat, it feels both rustic and refined.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Ground cinnamon (optional)

• Salt

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vegetable oil or melted butter

• Vanilla extract

• Buttermilk or whole milk

• Fresh pears (peeled, cored, and chopped)

• Cream cheese frosting or vanilla frosting

• Fresh pear slices (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven and lightly grease a round cake pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat sugar and eggs until fluffy. Add oil (or melted butter) and vanilla.

4. Stir in buttermilk and gradually add the dry ingredients.

5. Fold in the chopped pears gently.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Allow the cake to cool completely.

8. Spread frosting evenly over the cake.

9. Garnish with thin pear slices and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Cooling and decorating: 30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped walnuts or almonds for a nutty texture.

• Drizzle with chocolate ganache instead of frosting.

• Use canned pears if fresh pears are not available.

• Add ground ginger or nutmeg for extra warmth.

• Bake as cupcakes instead of a round cake for individual servings.

storage/reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. For a freshly warmed slice, microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Yes, just drain them well and chop before adding to the batter.

Can I make this cake without frosting?

Yes, it tastes wonderful plain or dusted with powdered sugar.

What kind of pears work best?

Bosc or Anjou pears are firm and hold their shape well when baked.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.

Why is my cake too dense?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and measure flour correctly.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, chocolate chips add extra richness to the cake.

Do I need to peel the pears?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on for a rustic look.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but adjust baking time as it may take longer to cook through.

Can I use almond flour instead of regular flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser and more moist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake a day ahead, store covered, and frost before serving.

Conclusion

Chocolate Pear Cake is a delightful dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of pears in a rich, moist chocolate base. With its creamy frosting and elegant garnish, it is perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special celebrations.

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