Pear Frangipane Tart is a delicious and elegant dessert that combines the delicate flavors of ripe pears with a rich almond filling. The buttery tart crust, creamy frangipane, and juicy pears come together to create a sophisticated treat perfect for special occasions or a delightful end to any meal.
Ingredients:
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
For the Frangipane Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup almond meal (or ground almonds)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra almond flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pear Topping:
- 3-4 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apricot jam (for glazing, optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Tart Crust:
- Make the dough: In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and pulse until combined. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead it gently to bring it together, then shape it into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan and press it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough.
- Blind bake the crust: Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the crust is lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Frangipane Filling:
- Cream butter and sugar: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add almond meal and egg: Mix in the almond meal until combined. Then add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and beat until smooth.
- Add salt: Stir in the salt until fully incorporated.
Prepare the Pear Topping:
- Prepare pears: Peel, core, and slice the pears thinly. Toss the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Sweeten pears: Mix the sugar and cinnamon (if using) in a bowl and toss the pear slices in the mixture.
Assemble and Bake:
- Spread frangipane: Spread the frangipane filling evenly over the pre-baked tart crust.
- Arrange pears: Arrange the pear slices on top of the frangipane in a decorative pattern, slightly overlapping if desired.
- Bake the tart: Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the frangipane is set and golden brown, and the pears are tender.
- Glaze (optional): If using apricot jam, gently heat it until melted and brush it over the pears for a shiny finish.
Cool and Serve:
- Cool: Let the tart cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before removing the sides of the tart pan. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
- Serve: Serve the tart on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips for Perfect Pear Frangipane Tart:
- Choose ripe but firm pears: Overripe pears can become mushy during baking. Firm pears will hold their shape better.
- Frangipane consistency: Ensure the frangipane filling is smooth and free of lumps for a creamy texture.
- Avoid over-browning: If the edges of the tart crust or the pears start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Elegant and delicious: This tart combines a rich almond filling with the freshness of pears for a sophisticated and delightful dessert.
- Versatile: It’s perfect for special occasions, holidays, or as a treat any day of the week.
- Beautiful presentation: The arrangement of pear slices on top creates a stunning and impressive dessert that’s sure to impress.
Enjoy making and savoring this Pear Frangipane Tart, a treat that’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat!