Pear Almond Cake

This almond-flavored cake is made with almond flour, to which I added just a small amount to avoid overpowering the flavor. I had some fresh pears at home, so I decided to add them to the cake as well. It's made in one bowl, without separating dry and wet ingredients, super easy and you will make it in no time.

The result was a delicious, moist cake that isn't overly sweet. This pear almond cake is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The almond powder contributes a subtle nuttiness, complementing the sweetness of the ripe pears. The cake has a tender crumb, and the almond flakes on top add a delightful crunch. 

However, it's best consumed within three days due to the presence of fruit.

Ingredients

- 2 eggs

- 90g sugar

- 90ml oil

- 130g all-purpose flour

- 35g almond powder

- 8g baking powder

- 2 pears (ripe but not overripe)

- 25g almond flakes (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 6-inch cake tin with parchment paper.

2. Peel and core the pears, then cut them into small dice or thin strips. Set aside for later.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes relatively glossy, and you notice that the sugar starts to dissolve into the eggs.

4. Pour in the oil, and using a spoon or spatula, stir until the oil is well combined with the egg and sugar mixture.

5. Sift the flour, almond powder, and baking powder into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Sifting helps ensure that these dry ingredients are evenly distributed and prevents lumps in the batter.

6. Gently stir the mixture until the dry ingredients are just combined with the wet ingredients. 

7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake tin, spreading it evenly along the bottom.

8. Place some of the diced or sliced pears on top of the batter in the cake tin. 

9. Cover the layer of pears with the remaining batter. Add the rest of the diced / sliced pears on top. 

10. Sprinkle the almond flakes evenly over the top of the batter.

11. Place the cake tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, and the cake has a gentle golden brown color, it is ready.

12. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. 

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Steamed Korean Pear with Dates and Ginger

This simple and healthy dessert is not only sweet and soft, making it perfect for kids, but it's also traditionally considered an Asian remedy for soothing coughs and sore throats. The tender, fragrant pear stuffed with dates, ginger, and honey is a comforting treat that combines both pleasure and health. 

Ingredients

- 1 Korean pear

- 2-3 dates (pitted, if desired)

- 1-2 slices of fresh ginger

- 2 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pear:

   - Wash the Korean pear thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt.

   - Slice off the top of the pear, about 1-2 cm from the stem, to create a "lid." Set this top aside.

   - Use a spoon or a small paring knife to carefully scoop out the core and seeds from the pear, creating a hollow cavity in the middle. Be careful not to puncture the bottom of the pear.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   - Remove the pits from the dates if necessary, then chop them into smaller pieces if they are large.

   - Place the dates, ginger slices, and honey inside the hollowed pear. You can slightly layer the ingredients to ensure even distribution of flavors.

3. Steam the Pear:

   - Place the stuffed pear (with the top placed back on if you like) into a steamer basket or on a steaming tray.

   - Set the steamer over boiling water, cover, and steam the pear for about 1 hour, or until it becomes tender and easy to pierce with a fork.

4. Serve:

   - Carefully remove the steamed pear from the steamer using tongs or a spatula (it will be hot).

   - Serve the pear warm, as is, or scoop out the tender fruit and the infused filling. You can drizzle any remaining juices from the steaming over the pear for extra flavor.

Notes:

- Korean Pear: Korean pears are larger, rounder, and crisper than regular pears. Their naturally sweet and juicy flavor makes them perfect for steaming.

- Variations: You can experiment with the filling by adding goji berries, cinnamon sticks, or even walnuts for extra texture and nutrition.

- Health Benefits: This recipe is often used as a natural remedy for soothing sore throats and coughs, especially during cold weather. The combination of ginger and honey provides warmth, while the dates add a nourishing sweetness.

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