As I carefully arranged the poached pears atop the creamy almond frangipane, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of triumph. The Elegant Pear Almond Frangipane Tart isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors and a tribute to the art of French pastry. What makes this recipe truly irresistible is how effortlessly it transforms simple ingredients into a stunning centerpiece for your table. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply indulging in some well-deserved self-care, this tart is a crowd-pleaser that promises both ease of preparation and an elevated experience. With its buttery crust and spiced syrup drizzled lovingly around each slice, I can assure you, it will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Curious to discover how to create this enchanting treat at home? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this tart a must-have?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of spiced poached pears and creamy almond frangipane creates a dessert that’s bursting with seasonal goodness.
Effortless elegance: Impress guests with this visually stunning tart that looks intricate but is surprisingly simple to make.
Perfect for gatherings: Ideal for cozy dinners or celebrations, this dessert is sure to be the highlight of any table.
Versatile variations: Switch up the fruit or add chocolate for a personal twist—your creativity knows no bounds! You might also enjoy making Pistachio Tartlets Adore for a fun twist on classic tarts.
Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Ingredients
For the Tart Pastry
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use softened butter for easy mixing.
• Icing Sugar (Powdered Sugar) – Provides sweetness and a light texture; can substitute with granulated sugar if needed.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; room temperature is recommended for better incorporation.
• Plain Flour (All-Purpose Flour) – Provides structure to the pastry; important for creating a sturdy base.
For the Frangipane Filling
• White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the frangipane filling; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a caramel-like flavor.
• Almond Meal (Ground Almonds) – Gives the frangipane its distinctive flavor and texture; substitute with hazelnut meal for something new.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall sweetness; use pure extract for the best depth of flavor.
• Ground Cloves – Adds spice depth in the frangipane; can be replaced with nutmeg if desired.
For the Spiced Pear Syrup
• Ripe Pears (Packham, Bosc, or Anjou) – Main fruit component, providing sweetness; substitute with apples for a different flavor.
• Water – Acts as the base for the poaching syrup; ensures the fruit cooks evenly.
• Cinnamon Sticks – Infuses warm spice into the syrup; ground cinnamon can be used if sticks are not available.
• Whole Cloves – Adds aromatic flavor during the poaching process; leave out if not desired.
Prepare to create your Pear Almond Frangipane Tart and make a delightful masterpiece that is sure to charm your guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pear Almond Frangipane Tart
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
Begin by creaming 120g of softened unsalted butter with 100g of icing sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Beat in 1 large room-temperature egg until fully incorporated. Gradually add 200g of plain flour, mixing until clumps form. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Step 2: Blind Bake Tart Shell
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the chilled pastry to fit a 23cm tart pan, then gently press it into the base and sides. Prick the base with a fork for even baking, line with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven, take out the weights, and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Poach the Pears
While the tart shell cools, peel and core 3 ripe pears of your choice, such as Bosc or Anjou. In a saucepan, combine 500ml of water, 100g of white granulated sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 whole cloves, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then add the pears. Cook gently for about 15-20 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Remove pears and strain the syrup, reserving both for later.
Step 4: Make the Frangipane Filling
In a clean bowl, cream together 100g of unsalted butter and 100g of white granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 4-5 minutes. Gradually incorporate 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Lastly, fold in 100g of almond meal, 2 tablespoons of plain flour, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves until you have a smooth frangipane batter.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the frangipane filling into the cooled tart shell, smoothing it evenly. Thinly slice the poached pears and arrange them artistically on top of the frangipane. Brush the arranged pears with a bit of the reserved spiced syrup for added flavor. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, until the frangipane is golden and set, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the Pear Almond Frangipane Tart to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, then carefully remove it from the tart shell. Let it cool completely at room temperature before serving. For an extra treat, drizzle with the reserved pear syrup and pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy on its own to savor its delightful flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Elegant Pear Almond Frangipane Tarts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the tart pastry and poached pears up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to assemble the tart on the day of serving. Simply cream the butter and sugar, incorporate the egg and flour, and chill the pastry. Meanwhile, poach the pears and refrigerate them in their syrup to maintain flavor and prevent browning. When ready to serve, just mix the frangipane filling, assemble the tart, and bake. You’ll achieve just as delicious results with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Expert Tips for Pear Almond Frangipane Tart
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Perfect Peaches or Pears: Choose ripe pears for poaching; underripe fruit may not soften enough, while overripe can become mushy.
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Chill the Pastry: Allow the pastry to chill adequately for at least 2 hours; this helps prevent shrinking during baking.
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Moist Frangipane: For a light texture in the frangipane filling, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature; this promotes even mixing.
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Watch the Baking Time: Check for doneness before the recommended time; overbaking can dry out the tart, while underbaking results in a gooey center.
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Serve Warm or Cold: The Pear Almond Frangipane Tart is delicious served both warm with ice cream or chilled; find your favorite way to enjoy it!
Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Variations
Discover delightful twists that elevate this already exquisite tart into something uniquely yours!
- Apple Alternative: Swap out pears for crisp apples for a tart that packs a crunch.
- Chocolate Layer: Add a silky layer of chocolate ganache beneath the frangipane for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Nut-Free Version: Use a sunflower seed meal instead of almond meal to create a nut-free frangipane that still delights.
- Spiced Citrus: Incorporate orange zest in the frangipane for a zesty burst of flavor that complements the earthy almonds beautifully.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with warm caramel sauce just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness—imagine the rich contrast of flavors!
- Berry Boost: Toss in some berries with the poached pears for an unexpected pop of color and tartness that makes every slice a delight.
- Gluten-Free Tart: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- Herbal Touch: Infuse the poaching liquid with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a fragrant herbal twist that will surprise and impress your guests.
Feeling inspired? This pear almond tart can take on many delightful variations, and you might also enjoy trying your hand at making Honey Custard Tarts for a refreshing change.
How to Store and Freeze Pear Almond Frangipane Tart
Fridge: Store the tart wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tart whole, wrapped tightly in plastic, and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer it warm, reheat individual slices in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy the Pear Almond Frangipane Tart warm with a drizzle of spiced syrup for a comforting treat.
Airtight Storage: Ensure the tart is well-wrapped to keep it fresh and prevent odors from affecting its delightful almond and pear flavors.
What to Serve with Pear Almond Frangipane Tart
Indulging in this elegant dessert is just the beginning; pair it with delightful accompaniments to create a memorable meal.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream beautifully complements the tart’s warm, spiced flavors, creating a comforting contrast.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch, enhancing the tart’s sweetness without overpowering it.
- Espresso or Coffee: The robust flavors of espresso provide a rich balance to the dessert, awakening your palate with every sip.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the frangipane, creating a delightful burst of flavor.
- Chai Spiced Tea: The warming spices of chai harmonize perfectly with the dessert, adding an aromatic layer that elevates your tasting experience.
- Tossed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zingy vinaigrette adds a crisp texture and brightens the meal, beautifully offsetting the tart’s sweetness.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache brings a luxurious richness, appealing to chocolate lovers and adding sophistication.
- Raspberry Coulis: This fruity sauce adds a bright, tangy spot to the plate, complementing the nutty almond flavors and enhancing the visual appeal.
- Cider or Sparkling Wine: A glass of sweet cider or bubbly sparkling wine pairs wonderfully with the dessert, making for an elegant finish.
Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pears for the tart?
Absolutely! Look for ripe but firm pears like Packham, Bosc, or Anjou. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel overly soft, as they may not hold their shape during poaching. If in doubt, gently squeeze the fruit; it should yield slightly but remain firm.
What is the best way to store the Pear Almond Frangipane Tart?
Very simply, wrap the tart in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture. This guarantees you enjoy each bite as it was meant to be tasted!
Can I freeze the Pear Almond Frangipane Tart?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Before serving, reheat individual slices in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes for a warm, comforting treat.
What should I do if the tart crust shrinks during baking?
To avoid this, chill the pastry for at least 2 hours before baking; this firms it up and reduces shrinkage. Additionally, make sure the tart shell is pressed evenly into the pan and pricked with a fork before blind baking to further minimize shrinkage.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re making this dessert for someone with nut allergies, you should skip the almond meal in the frangipane filling and consider a suitable seed-based substitute instead. Be mindful if you plan to serve this to pets; ingredients like sugar and spices may not be safe for them.
Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
The more the merrier! Yes, you can certainly substitute pears with other seasonal fruits like apples or peaches. Just ensure they are ripe, similar to the pears, so they cook evenly during poaching. Enjoy experimenting to find your favorite flavor combination!
Delightful Pear Almond Frangipane Tart for Cozy Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the pastry by creaming the butter and icing sugar until smooth, then incorporate the egg and flour, shape into a disc and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the pastry, fit into the tart pan, prick the base, line with parchment, fill with weights and blind bake for 20 minutes.
- Peel and core the pears, then poach in a sugar-water mixture with spices until tender. Remove and strain the syrup.
- Cream butter and sugar for the frangipane, then add eggs and vanilla. Fold in almond meal, flour, and cloves for the filling.
- Assemble the tart by pouring the frangipane into the shell, placing sliced poached pears on top, brushing with syrup, and bake for 60-70 minutes.
- Cool the tart for 30 minutes, then remove from pan and let cool completely before serving.
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