Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. This moist dessert is infused with the sweet flavors of ripe pears and spicy ginger, topped with a rich sticky glaze. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a satisfying dessert after dinner. The unique blend of ingredients ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a standout choice for any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of pears and ginger creates a moist texture that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm straight from the oven or at room temperature, making it ideal for various occasions.
• Irresistible Sticky Glaze: The sweet glaze adds an extra layer of flavor that beautifully complements the cake.
• Perfect Pairing with Tea: This cake makes an excellent companion to your favorite cup of tea or coffee.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cake tin (20cm/8-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sifter
• Spatula
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake tin: Ensures even baking and helps achieve a perfect shape for your cake.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy combining of wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for a lighter texture.
• Spatula: Useful for folding in ingredients gently without deflating the batter.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) cake tin with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together:
* All-purpose flour
* Ground ginger
* Ground cinnamon
* Baking soda
* Salt

Set these dry ingredients aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
* Melted butter
* Light brown sugar
* Milk
* Egg
* Dark treacle

Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep the cake light.

Step 5: Add Pears

Gently fold in the diced pears using your spatula. This ensures they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Make the Glaze

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

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Poke holes in its top using a skewer or toothpick. Pour your warm glaze over it while it’s still warm so it can seep into those holes for extra flavor.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature for an unforgettable dessert experience!

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 prefer it warm or at room temperature, there are several serving ideas to enhance your experience.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a creamy contrast to the spiced cake.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a fluffy texture that complements the rich flavors of the cake.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For an extra sweet treat, drizzle more of the warm sticky glaze over each slice before serving.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries can add a burst of freshness and balance the sweetness.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Enjoying a slice with a cup of tea or coffee creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

To ensure your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake turns out perfectly moist and flavorful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use ripe pears: Choose pears that are ripe but still firm. This will add natural sweetness and moisture to your cake.

• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour and spices helps eliminate lumps and ensures even distribution throughout the batter.

• Don’t overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Check for doneness: Use a skewer to check if the cake is fully baked. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.

• Cool before serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. This helps set the flavors and makes for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Pairing your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Nuts: Roasted mixed nuts seasoned with cinnamon add crunch and flavor that pairs well with the cake’s spices.

2. Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon can enhance the fruity notes of the cake while adding warmth.

3. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the ginger flavor wonderfully.

4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a light contrast, balancing out the richness of the cake.

5. Custard Sauce: Serve warm custard alongside for a classic pairing that brings creaminess to each bite.

6. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting sweet-and-savory contrast, enhancing your dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Using unripe pears: Choose ripe, juicy pears for the best flavor and texture. Unripe pears may not soften well during baking.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Skipping the glaze: The sticky glaze adds moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the cake’s overall taste.
• Not checking for doneness: Insert a skewer into the center to ensure it comes out clean. Baking times may vary based on your oven.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and better rise.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake.

What can I substitute if I don’t have dark treacle?

You can use molasses as a perfect substitute for dark treacle in this recipe, providing similar sweetness and depth.

How do I make my Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I add nuts to my Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and flavor contrast. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

How long does Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake last at room temperature?

If stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 2 days at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is a wonderfully spiced dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its moist texture combined with the sweet sticky glaze makes it irresistible. You can easily customize it by adding nuts or using different fruits like apples or peaches. Give this delightful recipe a try!