Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

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There’s something cozy and nostalgic about the warm scent of spices mingling with baked fruit. This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake brings together the rich, golden sweetness of ripe pears with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a tender crumb that melts with every bite. The caramelized top, made glossy with brown sugar and butter, gives the cake a bakery-worthy finish right in your home kitchen.

Perfect for the holidays or an elegant dessert to serve with tea, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious. The sliced pears fan out into a stunning pattern once inverted, and the warm spices give it an autumnal charm that works year-round. Whether you’re entertaining or simply treating yourself, this upside down cake is a showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

This cake is pure comfort with a rustic touch. You get a caramelized fruit topping without needing frosting, and the moist, spiced cake underneath perfectly balances the sweetness. It also makes a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering, especially when served slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream.

The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. It celebrates seasonal fruit in a way that feels special yet simple. And the combination of pears, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg is a tried-and-true classic that never disappoints.

What Kind of Pears Work Best in an Upside Down Cake?

Ripe but firm pears are key. Bosc or Anjou pears hold their shape well during baking, giving you beautiful slices that won’t turn mushy. Avoid overly soft varieties like Bartlett, which can break down too much in the oven. Aim for pears that give slightly when pressed but still feel structured. Peeling is optional, though peeled pears give a silkier finish in the final texture.

Ingredients for the Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

The ingredients here are all about comfort and warmth. Each one brings a layer of flavor or texture that elevates the cake.

• Pears
• Brown sugar
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Ginger
• Milk
• Vanilla extract

How To Make the Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pear Layer

Start by greasing a cake pan and lining the base with a mixture of melted butter and brown sugar. This will form your luscious caramelized top once the cake is flipped. Arrange thinly sliced pears in a fanned-out pattern over the sugar mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These spices are what give the cake its signature warmth and aroma.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a hand or stand mixer, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine and Pour

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined, then carefully pour the batter over the pears in the prepared pan, smoothing the top.

Step 5: Bake and Invert

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a plate while still warm to reveal the beautiful caramelized pear top.

How to Serve and Store Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

This cake serves 8 people generously and is best enjoyed slightly warm. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence.

To store, cover leftovers tightly and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

What to Serve With Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake?

Vanilla Ice Cream

Classic and creamy, it melts into the warm cake creating a contrast that’s irresistible.

Chai Latte

Spiced tea pairs beautifully with the warm notes of cinnamon and ginger in the cake.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

A little extra sauce goes a long way if you want to boost the indulgence factor.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Yes, this savory-sweet combo works surprisingly well and is often seen in apple-based desserts too.

Maple Whipped Cream

Slightly sweetened cream with a touch of maple is the perfect topping.

Toasted Nuts

Add a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch and a nutty contrast.

Dark Roast Coffee

The bitterness of coffee brings balance to the sweet, spiced flavors of the cake.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Cozy Twist?

If you love warm, nostalgic flavors like in this Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake, check out these other comforting creations:

• Southern Banana Cobbler for rich fruit layers and buttery topping.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls if you’re into fruity and creamy baked treats.
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies when you want no-bake, crunchy-sweet goodness.
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches for a bold and crispy dessert idea.
• Rhubarb Shortbread Bars if you’re in the mood for something tart and buttery.

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 it with ginger whipped cream? Or maybe added a splash of pear liqueur to the batter?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and desserts on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. From the buttery caramel topping to the tender crumb spiced just right, every bite wraps you in comfort. Whether it’s a crisp autumn afternoon or a cozy winter evening, this cake has a way of turning ordinary moments into something special.

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