How to Create a Golden Baked Pear Tart: A Simple Step-by-Step Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that’s both elegant and delicious, a golden baked pear tart might just be what you’re looking for. This dessert combines the sweet, juicy flavor of pears with a buttery crust and aromatic spices, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home. The best part? Making this tart is surprisingly simple! With just a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, you can create this stunning dessert in your kitchen. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the tart crust:
– 1 ½ cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
– ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg yolk
– 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) cold water
– Pinch of salt
For the filling:
– 3–4 ripe pears (Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou pears work well)
– ⅓ cup (67 grams) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ cup (30 grams) almond flour (optional)
For the glaze:
– 2 tablespoons apricot jam or honey (for a golden shine)
Step 1: Make the Tart Crust
The crust is the foundation of your pear tart, and it’s super easy to make. Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work it into the dry ingredients. Aim for a crumbly, sand-like texture with small butter pieces throughout.
Next, stir in the egg yolk and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork it—you’re looking for a soft, pliable dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the butter firm up and gives the tart crust its flaky texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
While your dough chills, it’s time to prepare the pears. Peel and core your pears, then slice them thinly lengthwise. Aim for slices that are about ¼-inch thick. If your pears are slightly firm, don’t worry—they’ll soften beautifully when baked.
In a bowl, toss the pear slices with sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. These simple ingredients add warmth and sweetness to the pears, helping them caramelize as they bake.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Assemble
Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. You can use a tart pan with a removable bottom for a polished look, or simply free-form a rustic tart (often called a galette) on a baking sheet. Press the dough gently into your tart pan and trim the edges if needed.
To prevent the crust from getting soggy, sprinkle a thin layer of almond flour on the bottom. This step is optional but highly recommended, especially if you’re using juicy pears. Arrange the pear slices in a circular pattern, starting from the outer edge and working inward. Take your time here—this is what makes the tart visually stunning!
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pear tart for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the pears are tender. Keep an eye on it toward the end to make sure the edges don’t overbrown. The aroma of cinnamon and pears will fill your kitchen and give you a sneak peek of how amazing your tart will taste.
Step 5: Glaze for Extra Shine
As soon as the tart comes out of the oven, heat the apricot jam or honey in a small saucepan until it’s smooth and liquid-like. Brush it gently over the pears using a pastry brush. This step adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavor of the tart, making it look bakery-worthy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the tart cool for about 10–15 minutes before removing it from the pan or slicing. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. This dessert is also wonderful at room temperature, making it a great option to prepare ahead of time.
Tips for Success
- Choose ripe pears: Ripe pears are naturally sweet and flavorful. If your pears feel too firm, let them sit at room temperature for a day or two before using.
- Chill your dough: Cold butter is key to a flaky crust, so keep your dough chilled until you’re ready to roll it out.
- Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is classic, you can try nutmeg, cardamom, or even ginger for a unique twist.
Creating a golden baked pear tart is a rewarding experience that turns simple ingredients into something truly magical. With its flaky crust, caramelized pears, and delightful glaze, this tart is sure to impress your family and friends—and it might just become your new favorite dessert. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!
