As the leaves turn golden and a crispness settles into the air, there’s something incredibly inviting about a warm dessert that fills the home with comforting aromas. This Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze is exactly that—a cozy indulgence that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Just imagine slicing into this moist cake, where the sweetness of ripe pears dances harmoniously with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, all drizzled with a rich and luscious brown sugar glaze.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cake is both easy to whip up and utterly satisfying. In just 50 minutes, you can create a dessert that’s not only visually stunning but also a delightful centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for fans of homemade comfort food, this recipe encourages you to explore different variations with fruits like apples and peaches, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire. So, let’s gather those ingredients and bring a touch of cozy sweetness to your kitchen!
Why choose Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze?
Warmth and Comfort: This Spiced Pear Cake effortlessly brings the cozy ambiance of autumn into your kitchen.
Incredibly Easy: It takes just 50 minutes, perfect for busy bakers!
Versatile Ingredient Options: Substitute pears with apples or peaches to delight different palates.
Irresistible Aroma: The delightful blend of spices fills your home with inviting scents.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This cake is sure to have everyone asking for seconds, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings.
Luscious Glaze: The rich brown sugar glaze adds a decadent finish that elevates this simple cake to a new level of indulgence.
Ingredients for Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze
• For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake. Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for rising.
- Baking soda – Works in conjunction with baking powder for leavening.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the spiced flavor.
- Ground nutmeg – Enhances the aromatic profile of the dessert.
- Ground ginger – Provides an extra layer of spiciness.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors of the cake.
- Unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- Packed brown sugar – Contributes sweetness and deep flavor to the cake.
- Large eggs – Binds ingredients and helps with structure.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor for a more complex taste.
- Ripe pears (diced) – The primary flavor and moisture source in this cozy cake. Substitution: Apples or peaches for a different flavor profile.
- Chopped walnuts (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch. Omit for a nut-free version.
• For the Glaze
- Butter – The base of the rich, sweet glaze.
- Brown sugar (for glaze) – Creates sweetness in the glaze.
- Milk (for glaze) – Helps to create a smooth consistency for the glaze.
Enjoy crafting your Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze!
How to Make Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze
Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake comes out easily once baked.
Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This blend will be the foundation of your fluffy cake.
Cream butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Incorporate eggs: Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to elevate the flavor.
Combine mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
Fold in fruit and nuts: Gently fold in the diced ripe pears and chopped walnuts (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Make the glaze: For the glaze, melt butter in a saucepan, stir in brown sugar and milk, and bring to a boil for about 2 minutes. This will create a rich syrupy glaze.
Cool and glaze: Once the cake has cooled in the pan for 10 minutes, remove it and drizzle the warm brown sugar glaze over the top, creating a delectable finish.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra delightful treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze
Customize your cake experience and make it truly yours with delicious twists and variations that play with flavors and textures.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake accessible for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
- Nut-Free: Omit nuts entirely or replace walnuts with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without allergens.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the spice mix for an intriguing twist in flavor.
- Fruit Swap: Replace diced pears with chopped apples or peaches for a different fruity take on this cozy dessert.
- Brown Sugar Boost: Use dark brown sugar for an even richer glaze with deeper molasses notes that complement the spices beautifully.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrusy zing that brightens the cake.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based milk and butter for a vegan version.
- Choco-Pear Delight: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips along with the pears for an indulgent chocolate surprise in each slice.
These variations ensure you can enjoy this delightful cake in countless ways, sparking joy and creativity in your baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze options are perfect for busy home cooks! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance and store it at room temperature in an airtight container to ensure it stays moist. The rich brown sugar glaze can also be prepared ahead of time; simply refrigerate it in a sealed container and reheat gently before drizzling over the cake. When ready to serve, let the cake come to room temperature, then add the glaze for that fresh, homemade touch. This way, you’ll enjoy all the cozy flavors of autumn with minimal effort, making dessert night a breeze!
What to Serve with Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze?
Indulging in a slice of this delightful cake opens the door to a comforting in-home gathering.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds creamy richness and contrasts beautifully with the spiced flavors of the cake.
- Chai Latte: The warming spices in chai perfectly complement the cake’s flavor profile, enhancing the autumn vibe.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and sweetness, making each bite even more luxurious.
- Coffee: The robust flavor of coffee balances the cake’s sweetness, creating a cozy dessert experience.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup elevates the cake with its distinct flavor, inviting a delightful sweetness.
- Fruit Compote: A warm pear or apple compote can mirror the cake’s fruitiness while adding natural tartness.
- Warm Spiced Cider: Serving the cake with a mug of warm spiced cider enhances the autumn atmosphere of your gathering.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola on top offers a crunchy contrast to the cake’s soft texture, inviting varied delights.
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend freshness, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to a week, keeping it deliciously tender.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Expert Tips for Spiced Pear Cake
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and to create a lighter texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined to maintain the cake’s fluffy texture. Overmixing can cause it to become dense.
• Choose Ripe Pears: Use perfectly ripe pears for the best flavor and moisture. If they are too firm, the cake may be less moist.
• No Peeking: Avoid opening the oven door during baking, especially in the first half, to ensure the cake rises properly.
• Variations Galore: Feel free to experiment! Substituting other fruits in this Spiced Pear Cake can lead to delightful surprises.
• Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool slightly before drizzling the warm brown sugar glaze to prevent it from soaking in too quickly.
Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze Recipe FAQs
What type of pears are best for this cake?
Absolutely! The best pears for this recipe are ripe and juicy varieties such as Bartlett or Anjou. They provide the perfect sweetness and moisture. Avoid pears that are overly firm or have dark spots, as they may not yield the texture and flavor you’re looking for.
How should I store left-over Spiced Pear Cake?
To maintain freshness, keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you think it will take longer to finish, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze leftover cake, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze slices of your Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Always mix until just combined, and make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal texture. If you notice the cake is still dense, don’t hesitate to add an extra teaspoon of baking powder next time.
Is this recipe adaptable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To make this Spiced Pear Cake gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. This cake is versatile and can cater to various dietary needs while still being delicious!
Cozy Autumn Delight: Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced ripe pears and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan, stir in brown sugar and milk, and bring to a boil for about 2 minutes.
- Once the cake has cooled in the pan for 10 minutes, drizzle the warm brown sugar glaze over the top.
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