Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

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Imagine slicing into a moist, golden cake crowned with glistening caramelized pears, their spiced aroma wafting through your kitchen. That first forkful is a balance of soft crumb, rich molasses-like brown sugar, and tender fruit that melts in your mouth. The warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg lingers pleasantly, making this cake a hug in dessert form.

Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake is the kind of dessert that feels both rustic and elegant. It’s simple enough for a cozy fall evening but impressive enough for a holiday gathering. Using ripe, juicy pears and pantry staples, this cake delivers bakery-level flavor without the stress.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

This cake is a showstopper in both looks and taste. The pears bake into a sticky, luscious layer that pairs perfectly with the warmly spiced cake beneath. It’s a one-pan marvel that turns out beautifully every time. Plus, it uses common ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is forgiving, flexible, and endlessly rewarding.

What Kind of Pears Should I Use?

You want pears that are ripe but still firm so they hold their shape during baking. Bosc and Anjou varieties are excellent choices for this cake. Avoid overly ripe pears, as they can become mushy and release too much liquid, which might make the cake soggy. If your pears are a bit underripe, that’s okay—they’ll soften beautifully in the oven as they soak up all the caramel and spice.

Ingredients for the Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake uses wholesome ingredients that combine into a comforting yet refined dessert. Every component has a purpose, adding to the richness, texture, or aroma of the final result.

• Pears: The star of the show. Choose firm-ripe pears for perfect slices that caramelize on top.
• Brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses flavor and helps create the gooey topping.
• Butter: Both for greasing and for richness in the batter and topping.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: These warming spices enhance the flavor of the pears.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base for a tender, balanced crumb.
• Baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle lift.
• Salt: Brings out all the other flavors.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth.
• Milk: Moistens the batter and helps everything blend smoothly.

How To Make the Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pear Topping

Melt butter in a skillet or cake pan and sprinkle in the brown sugar. Let it bubble for a moment, then arrange your sliced pears in a fan or spiral pattern. This becomes the beautiful top once you flip the cake.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and spices. In another, beat the eggs with sugar and melted butter, then stir in vanilla and milk. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.

Step 3: Pour and Bake

Carefully spoon the batter over the arranged pears and gently spread it to the edges. Bake in a preheated oven until golden and a toothpick comes out clean—about 35-40 minutes.

Step 4: Flip and Serve

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then place a plate over the top and invert the cake. Lift off the pan to reveal your glistening, golden pear design.

How to Serve and Store This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

This cake is delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also delicious at room temperature, where the flavors deepen and the crumb settles. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy breakfast slice.

It serves 8 comfortably, but don’t be surprised if everyone wants seconds. Store leftovers tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness. You can warm slices briefly in the microwave to bring back that just-baked feel.

What to Serve With Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake?

Whipped Cream

A light cloud of whipped cream balances the richness and adds a cool contrast.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Classic pairing that makes each bite creamy and luxurious.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle extra caramel over the top if you want to double down on indulgence.

Hot Tea

Earl Grey or chai tea complements the spices and enhances the cozy vibe.

Mulled Wine

For holiday occasions, a glass of warm mulled wine is pure seasonal bliss.

Sharp Cheese

Try a slice with a piece of aged cheddar for a sweet-savory contrast that surprises.

Fresh Berries

Add a pop of tart freshness with some raspberries or cranberries on the side.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy creations:

• Butter Pecan Pound Cake for a nutty, buttery classic.
• Decadent Pistachio Cream Cake for dreamy, nutty layers.
• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake if you love melt-in-your-mouth textures.
• Carrot Pound Cake with Vanilla Glaze for earthy sweetness and spice.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try cardamom or stick to the classic spice blend? Add a splash of bourbon? I’d love to hear your twist.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more comfort bakes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to seasonal treats.

Conclusion

Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake is all about cozy elegance. With its tender crumb, caramelized fruit topping, and fragrant spice, it’s an autumnal dessert that deserves a place in your baking rotation. Easy to make and even easier to love, this is the kind of cake that disappears quickly—and gets requested again and again.

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