This Caramelized Pistachio Pear Cake has a lot going for it. As the holiday season approaches, the search for seasonal desserts for Christmas and Thanksgiving tables begins. This beautiful cake is a delicious suggestion. The recipe blends the rich flavors of caramelized pears and raw chopped pistachios. This exquisite creation is a rustic beauty that sits well on any dessert table. Also, it is an ideal centerpiece for any fall gathering.
A Cake Frame with Layers:
The foundation of this lovely dessert is a brown sugar cake frame. It is designed to cradle layers of succulent caramelized pears and pistachios. Furthermore, pistachio cream is layered on the bottom. This adds a velvety texture that elevates each bite. Pistachio cream is a luxury time that often is hard to find. Consequently, feel free to skip this step entirely. However, Nutella or any nut cream is a good substitute. Alternatively, you can make your own.
The star of the show is the caramelized pear slices. These are steamed to perfection to enhance their natural sweetness. Furthermore, these tender, caramel-kissed pears dance on your palate, creating a harmonious balance with the crunch of caramelized raw chopped pistachios. The result is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.
Caramelize those pistachios:
This cake has a generous sprinkling of caramelized pistachios. While you can easily substitute almonds, pecans, or walnuts, pistachios, are a more festive ingredient. These golden green nuggets contribute to the visual allure of the dessert. Additionally, they provide a delightful contrast to the softness of the pears.
Whether you’re hosting a festive family dinner or a cozy fall gathering, this Caramelized Pistachio Pear Cake is a winner. I love this combination of seasonal flavors and luxurious textures. As a result, these make it a standout choice. Treat your loved ones to this beautiful cake and let the festivities begin with a slice of pure indulgence.
Caramelized Pear Pistachio Cake
Ingredients
Cake frame:
- 1+1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 egg lightly beaten
Filling:
- 1+1/2 lbs pears
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 cup raw pistachios
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup pistachio cream.
Instructions
Make the cake frame:
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Whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar.
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Cut the butter into pieces. Add to the dry ingredients along with the beaten egg.
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Knead into a smooth dough.
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Cover the bowl with plastic cling film. Chill for 30 minutes.
Make the filling:
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Core the pears. Cut into quarters
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Slice each quarter thinly lengthwise.
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In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of the brown sugar and water.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
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Add the pears slices to the mixture. Gently stir to coat the apple slices.
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Cover the skillet, lower the heat, and steam the pears for 8-10 minutes.
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Remove from heat and set aside.
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Melt the tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar in a small skillet.
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Add the pistachios to the pan. Stir to coat and lightly caramelize.
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Remove from heat and set aside.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Grease and flour an 8-inch inch springform pan.
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Press the chilled cake dough into the pan. Press the dough up the sides at least 2 inches.
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Spread the pistachio cream on the bottom.
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Sprinkle about 1/3 of the caramelized pistachios on top.
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Gently transfer the caramelized pear slices to the prepared crust. Drain off the excess liquid.
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Distribute the rest of the caramelized pistachios evenly over the top.
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Bake for 25 minutes.
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Let cool 20 minutes before de-panning.
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Slice and serve.
Like this Caramelized Pistachio Pear Cake? Also, check out some of these other recipes:
PISTACHIO MERINGUE COOKIES
BAKED PEARS WITH BLUE CHEESE & WALNUTS
SAGE STREUSEL APPLE CAKE
