Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of ginger with the sweet juiciness of ripe pears. This cake is perfect for cozy gatherings or as a comforting dessert alongside your favorite cup of tea. Its rich sticky glaze adds an irresistible touch, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of pears and ginger creates a cake that is both tender and bursting with flavor.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice bakers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This cake makes an impressive centerpiece for any gathering or celebration.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cake tin (20cm/8-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Cake tin: A properly lined cake tin ensures even baking and easy removal of your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients helps achieve the right texture in your batter.

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 your cake tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together until smooth:
* Melted unsalted butter
* Light brown sugar
* Milk
* Egg
* Dark treacle or molasses

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 5: Add Pears

Fold in the diced pears gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

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

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

Once baked, poke holes in the top of the cake using a skewer. Pour the warm glaze over it while still in the tin.

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for an irresistible dessert experience.

How to Serve Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its rich flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

Warm with Cream

• Serve the cake warm out of the oven, drizzled with a generous amount of cream for a luscious finish.

With Ice Cream

• Pair slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla or ginger ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Garnish each slice with fresh slices of pear or berries to add a burst of freshness and color to your dessert plate.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee, enhancing its comforting qualities.

With Whipped Coconut Cream

• For a dairy-free option, serve the cake topped with whipped coconut cream for added richness and flavor.

How to Perfect Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

Achieving the perfect Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake requires attention to detail and some simple techniques. Here are some tips to help you create this delightful dessert.

• Use Ripe Pears: Choose ripe pears for maximum sweetness and moisture. This ensures the cake is flavorful and moist.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for ingredients. Baking is a science, so accuracy impacts texture and taste.
• Don’t Overmix: Blend wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of one that’s light and fluffy.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the cake cool slightly before glazing. This helps the glaze set better on top without soaking into the cake too quickly.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

To complement the rich flavors of Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake, consider these delightful side dishes. They offer contrasting textures and tastes that enhance your dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creamy sweetness against the spiced cake.
2. Coconut Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy, and dairy-free, this topping adds an exotic touch.
3. Berries Compote: A tangy fruit compote made from mixed berries provides freshness that balances the sweetness.
4. Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea echo the flavors in the cake while providing comfort.
5. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti adds texture and pairs well with coffee or tea.
6. Candied Ginger Slices: For an extra kick, serve candied ginger on the side to heighten the ginger flavor experience.
7. Toasted Nuts: A mix of toasted walnuts or pecans can provide crunch while complementing the warmth of the spices in the cake.
8. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar over each slice enhances flavor while adding visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can ruin the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold ingredients can affect the cake’s rise. Ensure butter, milk, and eggs are at room temperature.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the flavor and texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not lining the cake tin can cause sticking. Always grease and line your tin with parchment for easy removal.
• Opening the Oven Door Too Soon: This can cause the cake to sink. Wait until at least halfway through baking before checking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered pan over low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake:

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute pears with apples or even peaches for a different flavor profile.

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

To make this cake gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What if I don’t have dark treacle?

You can use molasses as an alternative to dark treacle without losing flavor.

Can I add nuts to Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add great texture.

How should I serve Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake?

Serve it warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Pear and Ginger Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with different fruits. Its moist texture paired with the rich sticky glaze makes it perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors!