Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with our Cardamom-Spiced Pear Galette, a rustic yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening at home. At Delights Bakery, we’re passionate about creating baking recipes that blend simplicity with sophistication. This pear galette recipe combines juicy pears, warm cardamom, and a flaky, buttery crust for a rustic dessert that’s both easy to make and visually stunning. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this fall dessert will become a favorite in your repertoire. Let’s dive into this flavorful artisan baking adventure!

Why Cardamom and Pears?

The combination of cardamom and pears is a match made in culinary heaven, offering a unique flavor profile that elevates this spiced dessert:

• Cardamom’s Warmth: Its spicy, citrusy notes complement the sweetness of pears.
• Pear’s Juiciness: Soft, ripe pears add natural sweetness and a tender texture.
• Rustic Charm: The free-form galette showcases the beauty of imperfect, handmade pastries.
• Seasonal Appeal: Perfect for fall, when pears are at their peak and spices feel cozy.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 6-8 slices

Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 4-5 tbsp ice water

For the Filling:

• 3 medium pears, peeled and thinly sliced (Bosc or Anjou recommended)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• Optional: 1 tbsp coarse sugar for sprinkling

For Serving (Optional):

• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
• Caramel sauce drizzle

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until pea-sized crumbs form. Add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until dough comes together. Form into a disc, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, toss pear slices with brown sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
3. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll chilled dough into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Assemble Galette: Arrange pear slices in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold edges over the filling, pleating as needed. Brush crust with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes until crust is golden and pears are tender. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
6. Serve: Slice and serve warm with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Nutrition: ~250 calories per slice, moderate in sugar and fat.

Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your pear galette recipe with these presentation ideas:

• With Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Caramel Drizzle: Add a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for extra decadence.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pecans for texture.
• Festive Touch: Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with fresh mint for elegance.

Tips for Perfect Pear Galette

Ensure your rustic dessert shines with these expert tips:

• Choose Firm Pears: Firm varieties like Bosc hold their shape during baking.
• Keep Butter Cold: Cold butter ensures a flaky, tender crust.
• Don’t Overfill: Arrange pears in a single layer to prevent soggy dough.
• Use Fresh Cardamom: Freshly ground cardamom offers the best flavor intensity.
• Chill Dough: Chilling prevents shrinking and maintains shape during baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overworking Dough: Handle dough minimally to keep it flaky.
• Using Overripe Pears: Soft pears release too much juice, making the crust soggy.
• Skipping Cornstarch: Cornstarch thickens pear juices, preventing a runny filling.
• Baking at Low Heat: High heat ensures a crisp crust; don’t lower the temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Other Fruits?

Yes, apples, peaches, or berries work well; adjust sugar based on fruit sweetness.

Can I Make the Dough Ahead?

Yes, prepare the dough up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 1 month.

Is This Galette Gluten-Free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make it gluten-free.

How Do I Prevent a Soggy Crust?

Use cornstarch in the filling and bake on a preheated baking sheet for a crisp base.

Final Thoughts

Our Cardamom-Spiced Pear Galette is a rustic, flavorful addition to your baking recipes, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. At Delights Bakery, we love sharing artisan baking ideas that bring warmth and joy to your table. Try this fall dessert, share your creations in the comments below, and let us know your favorite galette variations for a chance to feature them!