Päronkaka Pear Cake

In the heart of wintertime, Swedish holiday baking brings a touch of warmth and coziness to our homes. One traditional Swedish Christmas delight is the Päronkaka Pear Cake. This delightful dessert blends the sweetness of ripe pears with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and cardamom, making it a perfect treat for festive gatherings or a cozy evening at home by the fireplace.

Päronkaka Pear Cake

Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Arrange the sliced pears on top of the batter in a decorative pattern.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Once baked, 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. Serve the Päronkaka Pear Cake dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of this Swedish Christmas treat with a cup of hot cocoa or a steaming mug of coffee.

This Päronkaka Pear Cake is a delightful addition to any holiday table, bringing a taste of Scandinavian tradition to your celebrations. The aromatic blend of cinnamon and cardamom pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy pears, creating a dessert that is both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving a cozy treat on a cold winter’s night, this cake is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Embrace the spirit of Swedish Christmas baking with this delicious recipe and enjoy the warmth and joy it brings to your home.