Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is a delightful way to enjoy the warm flavors of ginger and ripe pears. This cake boasts a rich, sticky glaze that enhances its moist texture, making it a perfect centerpiece for cozy gatherings or a sweet indulgence with your afternoon tea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to impress with its comforting aroma and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ginger and pear creates a unique taste that will excite your palate.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the combination of treacle and fresh fruit, each slice remains deliciously moist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm for dessert or at room temperature for an afternoon snack; it’s delightful either way.
• Impressive Appearance: The sticky glaze adds an attractive finish, making it great for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 20cm (8-inch) cake tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sifter
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake tin: A good-quality cake tin ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to prepare dry and wet ingredients separately, which helps in better mixing.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the batter, making your cake lighter and fluffier.
• Sifter: Sifting flour prevents lumps and ensures even distribution of dry ingredients.

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Ingredients

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is a warm, spiced dessert featuring ripe pears, ginger, and a rich sticky glaze. Perfectly moist and comforting, it’s ideal for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat with tea.

For the Cake

• 200g (1 1/3 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 100g (1/2 cup) light brown sugar
• 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 150ml (2/3 cup) milk
• 1 large egg
• 100g (1/4 cup) dark treacle or molasses
• 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced

For the Glaze

• 100g (1/2 cup) golden syrup
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
• 50g (1/4 cup) light brown sugar

How to Make Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) cake tin with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, light brown sugar, milk, egg, and dark treacle until smooth.

Step 4: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Add Pears

Fold in the diced pears gently using a spatula. This ensures even distribution without breaking up the fruit.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared tin. Smooth the top with your spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze While Baking

While the cake bakes, combine golden syrup, butter, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat until smooth to make the glaze.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

When the cake is done baking, poke holes in the top using a skewer. Pour the warm glaze generously over it.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature for best enjoyment.

How to Serve Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream complements the spiced flavors of the cake perfectly. Just dollop some on top before serving.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, sticky cake. Serve a scoop alongside for a classic touch.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For those who love extra sweetness, drizzle additional warm glaze over each slice before serving. This enhances the sticky texture and flavor.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cake. It creates a balanced plate that looks inviting.

With Hot Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying slices of this cake with a warm cup of tea or coffee makes for a cozy afternoon treat. The spices in the cake pair well with both beverages.

How to Perfect Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Perfecting your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake takes practice but can be achieved with these helpful tips.

• Choose Ripe Pears: Use fully ripe pears for the best flavor and moisture in your cake. They should be soft to the touch but not mushy.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Test for Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center of the cake. It should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.

• Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and makes it easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

When planning your meal around Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with it.

1. Cinnamon Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples tossed in cinnamon add an extra layer of warmth to your dessert spread.

2. Caramelized Bananas: Soft bananas cooked in brown sugar create a sweet topping that complements the spices in the cake.

3. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the sweetness of the cake, providing freshness on the plate.

4. Ginger Tea: Brewed ginger tea enhances the flavors in your dessert while offering warmth and comfort.

5. Pecan Crumble Topping: Serve crushed pecans as an optional topping for added crunch alongside each slice of cake.

6. Roasted Nuts: A selection of roasted nuts provides a savory contrast to the sweet flavors, enhancing your dessert experience.

7. Chia Pudding: A light chia pudding can add an interesting texture and is great for those seeking something refreshing.

8. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out the sweetness of Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes you should steer clear of for the best results.

• Incorrect measurements: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the texture. Always measure ingredients accurately using cups or a kitchen scale.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake instead of a light one. Mix until just combined and then gently fold in the pears.
• Not preparing the cake tin properly: Failing to grease and line your tin may cause the cake to stick. Use parchment paper and grease it with butter for easy removal.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds essential flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the entire cake experience.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Baking times can vary by oven. Check for doneness with a skewer; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake.

Can I use other fruits besides pears?

Yes! Apples or peaches can be great substitutes if you prefer different flavors.

What can I substitute for light brown sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or regular granulated sugar, though this may slightly alter the flavor.

How do I know when my Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is done?

Insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is cooked perfectly!

Can I make this Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil.

What makes this cake sticky?

The combination of dark treacle or molasses along with golden syrup creates that delicious sticky texture.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is not only warm and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or swapping out spices to suit your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy this delightful dessert at your next gathering!