Pear Almond Breakfast Cake

This pear and almond breakfast cake is a delightful way to start your morning with a perfect balance of sweet fruit and nutty crunch. Its tender crumb and gentle aroma make it an inviting centerpiece for any brunch table or a cozy weekend treat.

I first baked this cake on a quiet Sunday morning and was amazed at how it filled the kitchen with comforting warmth. It quickly became a favorite to share with family and friends.

Ingredients You Need

• All-purpose flour: provides the necessary structure for a tender crumb Choose unbleached for best results
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the cake evenly and helps with browning
• Baking powder: acts as the leavening agent for a light, airy texture
• Salt: enhances all the flavors bringing balance
• Unsalted butter: adds richness and moisture Work with softened butter for easier creaming
• Large eggs: bind the ingredients and contribute to softness Always use room temperature eggs for smooth blending
• Milk or almond milk: adds moisture and helps create a soft batter Almond milk can make it dairy-free with a subtle nutty note
• Ripe pears: bring natural sweetness and juiciness Select pears that are tender yet firm to avoid mushiness
• Sliced almonds: provide a crunchy contrast Toasting them brings out their deeper flavor

Detailed Cooking Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit which is 175 degrees Celsius. Grease an 8-inch round cake pan well using butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Whisk these together so they are evenly distributed creating a uniform batter.

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In another larger bowl beat the softened butter with sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy and pale in color This step helps aerate and make the cake tender.

Incorporate Eggs and Milk:

Add eggs one at a time beating well after each to fully incorporate. Then stir in the milk or almond milk until the batter is smooth and cohesive.

Fold in Dry Ingredients and Pears With Almonds:

Gently add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients using a folding motion to keep air in the batter. Carefully fold in the chopped pears and toasted sliced almonds so they are well dispersed but not crushed.

Transfer Batter and Add Toppings:

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle additional sliced almonds on top for an inviting crunch.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top turns golden brown. Insert a toothpick in the center and ensure it comes out clean meaning the cake is thoroughly cooked.

Family Memories The first time I baked this cake I brought it to a family brunch where it vanished quickly between laughter and catching up. Now it is our go-to recipe when we want something homemade that feels special yet uncomplicated.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftover cake covered loosely at room temperature for up to two days to keep it moist. For longer storage wrap it well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in the oven or microwave to refresh softness.

Ingredient Variations

Replace pears with apples or peaches depending on the season for a fun twist Swap sliced almonds for chopped walnuts or pecans to vary the nutty crunch Use coconut milk or oat milk instead of almond or dairy milk to suit dietary preferences Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract for an additional layer of warmth and aroma

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Serve this cake alongside a cup of strong black coffee or a creamy latte for a comforting breakfast Pair with fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add brightness and creaminess Enjoy with a drizzle of honey or a spread of almond butter to complement the nutty notes in the cake

With its perfect harmony of juicy pears and crunchy almonds this cake is a wonderful way to treat yourself or others without much fuss. Serve it warm with your favorite morning beverage and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of a homemade delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What pears work best for this cake?

Firm yet ripe pears are ideal as they hold shape well and add natural sweetness without excess moisture.

→ Can I use almond milk in this preparation?

Yes, almond milk works well, adding a mild nutty flavor and making it suitable for dairy-free needs.

→ How do toasted almonds affect the flavor?

Toasting the almonds brings out deeper nutty aromas and adds a satisfying crunch to the texture.

→ What’s the best way to check if the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with few moist crumbs once fully baked.

→ Can I substitute butter for a vegan option?

Yes, using vegan butter or margarine maintains richness while keeping it suitable for plant-based diets.