Strengthen the festive spirit this holiday season with a delightful Russian classic – Grusheviy Tort, a luscious Pear Cake that will charm your taste buds and warm your heart. This traditional Christmas baking recipe is a perfect blend of soft sponge cake, juicy pears, and a touch of warmth from delicate spices. Embrace the season of joy with this exquisite dessert that will not only please your guests but also fill your home with the sweet aroma of love and celebration.
**Grusheviy Tort Pear Cake**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy. Add the sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom. Arrange a layer of sliced pears over the batter.
6. Carefully pour the remaining batter over the pears, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
7. Arrange the remaining pear slices on top in a decorative pattern, gently pressing them into the batter.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the top of the Pear Cake with powdered sugar for a snowy finish, adding a touch of festive flair. Slice and serve this delightful treat alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee, spreading joy and holiday cheer with every bite.
Delight your loved ones with the magic of Russian Christmas traditions by creating this inviting Grusheviy Tort Pear Cake. With its tender crumb, juicy pear filling, and aromatic spices, this dessert is sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Fill your home with the heartwarming aroma of freshly baked goodness and embrace the spirit of the season with each slice of this delectable cake. Enjoy the joy of baking and sharing this festive delight with those you hold dear.
