Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

Name: Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze: A Must-Try Recipe!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups ripe pears, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Posted on October 2, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I’m excited to share my Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug in dessert form. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a quick solution for a busy day, this cake is sure to impress your loved ones and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

This Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The moistness of the pears combined with the rich brown sugar glaze creates a cake that’s not only delicious but also comforting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up ripe pears, making it a win-win for busy moms like us!

Ingredients for Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cake, providing structure and texture.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise, making it light and fluffy.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth and a cozy aroma to your cake.
Ground nutmeg: This spice brings a hint of sweetness and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor.
Ground ginger: Adds a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the pears.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture, making the cake tender.
Brown sugar: This is the star of the show, giving the cake its deep caramel flavor and sweetness.
Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture, contributing to the cake’s structure.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a lovely aroma and enhances the sweetness.
Ripe pears: The main ingredient! They add moisture and natural sweetness, making the cake irresistible.
Chopped walnuts (optional): For a delightful crunch, these can be added if you like a bit of texture.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9-inch round cake pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a cake that won’t come out of the pan! Set the prepared pan aside while you move on to the next step.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices throughout the cake. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour. A well-mixed dry ingredient blend sets the stage for a perfectly spiced pear cake. Once combined, set this bowl aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Now, it’s time to cream the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The air you incorporate here will help your cake rise beautifully. The rich aroma of brown sugar will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the two large eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure everything is well combined. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to your cake. The mixture should look smooth and creamy, with a delightful sweetness that makes you want to dive right in. But hold on, we’re not done yet!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. You want to see a few flour streaks remaining. This is the perfect moment to embrace the joy of baking! The batter will be thick and fragrant, with hints of spice that promise a delicious treat ahead.

Step 6: Fold in Pears and Nuts

Now, gently fold in the diced ripe pears and optional chopped walnuts. Use a spatula to carefully incorporate them into the batter without overmixing. The pears will add moisture and sweetness, while the walnuts provide a delightful crunch. This step is where the magic happens, as the batter transforms into a colorful mix of flavors and textures. It’s hard not to sneak a taste at this point!

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of spiced pear cake will fill your home, making it feel like a warm embrace. Try to resist the urge to open the oven door too soon; patience is key!

Step 8: Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze

While the cake is baking, it’s time to whip up the brown sugar glaze. In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of milk. Stir until smooth, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil for about 2 minutes. This glaze will add a rich, sweet finish to your cake, making it even more irresistible!

Step 9: Cool and Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is done baking, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling time is essential for preventing breakage. After that, carefully remove the cake from the pan and place it on a wire rack. Drizzle the warm brown sugar glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to soak in. The glaze will create a beautiful, shiny finish that’s simply mouthwatering!

Tips for Success

Use ripe pears for the best flavor and moisture.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
Let the cake cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from sliding off.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cardamom to the spice mix.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Equipment Needed

9-inch round cake pan: A standard choice; you can also use a square pan if that’s what you have.
Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is handy for different steps.
Electric mixer: Great for creaming butter and sugar; a whisk works too!
Spatula: Essential for folding in ingredients and smoothing the batter.
Wire rack: Perfect for cooling the cake; a plate can work in a pinch.

Variations of Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free spiced pear cake.
Vegan Twist: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the spice mix for an extra layer of flavor.
Fruit Variations: Swap out pears for apples or peaches for a different fruity twist.
Nut-Free Version: Omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee to enhance the flavors.
Garnish with fresh pear slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.
Top with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

FAQs about Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze

Can I use other fruits in this cake? Absolutely! While this recipe shines with ripe pears, you can easily swap them for apples or peaches. Each fruit brings its unique flavor, making it a fun experiment!

How do I store leftover Spiced Pear Cake? To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it.

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just glaze it right before serving to keep that delicious brown sugar glaze fresh and shiny.

What can I serve with Spiced Pear Cake? This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A warm cup of spiced chai or coffee also complements the flavors beautifully.

Is this cake suitable for special diets? Yes! With a few simple substitutions, you can make a gluten-free or vegan version of this Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze. Check the variations section for tips!

Final Thoughts

Making this Spiced Pear Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. The warm spices and sweet pears come together to create a cake that feels like home. Each slice is a reminder of cozy gatherings and shared laughter. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or surprising a friend, this cake brings joy to any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!