Name: Irresistible Pear Almond Frangipane Tart for Cozy Evenings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 100 g Unsalted Butter (Essential for a rich, flaky texture.); 50 g Icing Sugar (Powdered Sugar) (Provides sweetness for the pastry.); 1 large Egg (Binds the pastry ingredients.); 200 g Plain Flour (All-Purpose Flour) (Creates the structure of the tart shell.); 100 g White Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the frangipane.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor in the frangipane.); 100 g Almond Meal (Ground Almonds) (The primary flavor of the frangipane.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Adds a warm, spiced note to the filling.); 2 pieces Ripe Pears (Providing moisture and sweetness.); 2 pieces Cinnamon Sticks (Infuse the poaching liquid with flavor.); 4 pieces Whole Cloves (Contributes depth to the poaching syrup.); 200 g Sugar (For the poaching syrup.); 500 ml Water (To create the poaching syrup.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I pulled my newly baked Pear Almond Frangipane Tart from the oven, the warm, spicy aroma of poached pears wafted through my kitchen, instantly enchanting everyone nearby. This charming French dessert is a delightful blend of moist almond sponge and sweet, tender pears, all tucked into a flaky, buttery crust. What’s truly magical about this Pear Almond Frangipane Tart is that it’s surprisingly easy to create, proving that elegance doesn’t always require hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a perfect dish for cozy gatherings, delivering both comfort and style. Are you ready to indulge in a slice that feels like a warm hug?

Why is this tart a must-try?

Simplicity: Crafting this Pear Almond Frangipane Tart is a breeze, allowing you to impress your guests without hours of effort.

Irresistible Flavor: The addition of spiced, poached pears elevates the tart, blending warm flavors that evoke comfort during cooler months.

Versatile Delight: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a sophisticated dinner party, this tart delivers crowd-pleasing appeal.

Nutty Goodness: With almond meal in the filling, you’re treated to a rich, nutty flavor that beautifully complements the sweet pears.

Step-by-Step Success: The clear instructions make it easy for both novice cooks and experienced bakers to achieve a stunning dessert, much like one you’d find at a French café.

Pair it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’re ready for a delicious experience! For a fresh twist on flavors, don’t miss our Broccoli Salad Bacon for something vibrant on the side.

Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Ingredients

For the Pastry
• Unsalted Butter – Essential for a rich, flaky texture; can be replaced with margarine if needed.
• Icing Sugar (Powdered Sugar) – Provides sweetness for the pastry; granulated sugar works but mixes less smoothly.
• Large Egg – Binds the pastry ingredients; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
• Plain Flour (All-Purpose Flour) – Creates the structure of the tart shell; a gluten-free blend is a suitable alternative.

For the Frangipane Filling
• White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the frangipane; swap for coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor in the frangipane; almond extract can offer a stronger taste.
• Almond Meal (Ground Almonds) – The primary flavor of the frangipane; ground hazelnuts can be used for variation.
• Ground Cloves – Adds a warm, spiced note to the filling; consider cinnamon for a different twist.

For the Poached Pears
• Ripe Pears – The star ingredients, providing moisture and sweetness; Bosc or Anjou varieties work best.
• Cinnamon Sticks – Infuse the poaching liquid with flavor; ground cinnamon serves as a handy substitute.
• Whole Cloves – Contributes depth to the poaching syrup; omit if you don’t have them on hand.

This Pear Almond Frangipane Tart comes together beautifully and makes for a delightful dessert that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pear Almond Frangipane Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
Begin by creaming 100g of unsalted butter and 50g of icing sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 3–5 minutes. Add in one large egg and mix until fully incorporated, then gradually add 200g of plain flour. Combine until a dough forms, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Pre-bake Tart Shell
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 3mm thick. Carefully fit the rolled pastry into a 23cm tart pan, trimming any excess. Use a fork to dock the base to prevent puffing, and weigh it down with baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 3: Poach Pears
While the tart shell is baking, prepare the poaching syrup. In a saucepan, combine 200g of sugar, 500ml of water, 2 cinnamon sticks, and 4 whole cloves. Bring to a simmer. Peel and core 2 ripe pears, then add them to the syrup. Let the pears simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until tender. Remove the pears and set them aside to cool, reserving the syrup for drizzling later.

Step 4: Make Frangipane Filling
In a clean bowl, cream together 100g of unsalted butter and 100g of white granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 2 large eggs, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually fold in 100g of almond meal and 30g of plain flour until just combined. The frangipane should be smooth and airy, ready to fill the tart.

Step 5: Assemble Tart
Spread the frangipane filling evenly into the pre-baked tart shell, smoothing it out with a spatula. Slice the poached pears thinly and arrange them artfully on top of the frangipane. Brush the tops of the pears with the reserved poaching syrup to give them a beautiful sheen and added flavor.

Step 6: Bake Tart
Lower the oven temperature to 170°C (338°F) and bake the assembled Pear Almond Frangipane Tart for 30-35 minutes, or until the frangipane is golden brown and set. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Pear Almond Frangipane Tarts are a dream for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade elegance with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the tart shell and frangipane filling up to 24 hours in advance. For the shell, bake it as directed, then allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap; this keeps it fresh and crisp. The frangipane can be made and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the poached pears and bake as instructed; they’ll turn out just as delicious! This way, you cut down on prep time and still impress your guests with a stunning dessert.

Expert Tips for Pear Almond Frangipane Tart

• Perfect Pears: To ensure your pears don’t sink, poach them first and place on top just before baking.

• Fluffy Frangipane: Beat the frangipane filling until pale and fluffy for the best rise and texture, avoiding a dense result.

• Docking Matters: Remember to dock the tart shell; this prevents puffing and helps maintain an even surface.

• Chill Before Rolling: Chill your pastry dough for at least 30 minutes for easier handling and a flakier crust.

• Serving Style: For a delightful finish, serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Enjoy creating your Pear Almond Frangipane Tart with these helpful tips!

Storage Tips for Pear Almond Frangipane Tart

Fridge: Keep the tart covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: You can freeze individual slices of the Pear Almond Frangipane Tart for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy the tart warm, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat it gently in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10-15 minutes, keeping it covered with foil to retain moisture.

Room Temperature: If serving the tart within a day of baking, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 day, but remember to cover it to keep it fresh.

What to Serve with Pear Almond Frangipane Tart

Imagine delighting your loved ones with a perfectly curated spread to accompany this exquisite dessert.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich, creamy flavor of vanilla ice cream balances the tart’s sweetness while enhancing the spiced notes of the pears. A scoop gently melting atop the warm tart creates a delightful contrast.
Fresh Berries Medley: A handful of vibrant berries brings a burst of freshness and a zing of acidity, cutting through the richness of the tart, making each bite harmonious.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious texture, perfectly complementing the moist almond filling and tender pears.
French Pressed Coffee: The deep, robust flavors of freshly brewed coffee enhance the dessert’s nutty profile, creating cozy moments as you savor each slice.
Sweet Dessert Wine: A glass of lightly sweet dessert wine pairs beautifully, echoing the tart’s fruitiness and lending a touch of sophistication to your gathering.
Pear Compote: If you adore pears, a side of warm pear compote brings more of that comforting flavor while echoing the tart’s spiced notes, enriching the experience even further.
Almond Cookies: Crunchy almond cookies deliver a pleasing texture contrast, echoing the flavors in the tart and providing a delightful little nibble between bites.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce on top introduces an indulgent twist that adds depth and richness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea complements the tart’s cozy flavors, making for a warming finish to your meal.

Allow these pairings to elevate your Pear Almond Frangipane Tart experience to new heights!

Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful tart to suit your tastes and dietary preferences!

Nut-Free: Replace almond meal with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option that retains a delightful texture.
Vegan: Swap butter for coconut oil, use a flax egg, and sweeten with maple syrup to create a plant-based marvel.
Spiced Twist: Incorporate ground ginger or nutmeg into your frangipane for a warm, fragrant note that invites cozy feelings.
Fruity Flair: Try adding a layer of raspberry jam beneath the frangipane for a burst of tart flavor that perfectly complements the sweet pears.
This berry enhancement can elevate the entire dessert, creating a delightful contrast and an exciting flavor profile!
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle your tart with homemade caramel sauce just before serving for a decadent, rich finish.
Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the frangipane mix for a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Ginger-Poached Pears: Poach your pears in ginger ale or add slices of fresh ginger to the poaching syrup for a zesty kick.
The subtle heat of the ginger adds complexity, transforming your tart into something truly special.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and enjoy a delicious tart without the gluten.

Explore these variations to make this Pear Almond Frangipane Tart your own! And if you’re looking for something vibrant to pair with your tart, consider our Broccoli Salad Bacon; it’s sure to be a hit!

Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my pears are ripe enough for poaching?
Absolutely! Look for pears that yield slightly when pressed at the neck; this indicates they’re ripe but not overly soft. Firm varieties like Bosc or Anjou work wonderfully, offering a pleasant texture after poaching.

What’s the best way to store leftover Pear Almond Frangipane Tart?
To keep your tart fresh, store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re keeping slices, an airtight container works best to prevent drying. You can also let it come to room temperature before serving for the most delightful taste and texture.

Can I freeze Pear Almond Frangipane Tart? If so, how?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to guard against freezer burn. This method keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow the slices to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven.

What should I do if the frangipane filling is too dense?
If your frangipane turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing. When you combine the almond meal and flour, fold them in gently until just combined. To achieve a light texture, be sure to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy before adding eggs—this can take around 3-5 minutes.

Are there any dietary adjustments I can make for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the large egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If someone has nut allergies, you can use a seed meal instead of almond meal for a similar texture.