Sand Cake with Pears

This delightful dessert, sand cake with pears, offers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, combining the buttery richness of the cake with the subtle sweetness of caramelized pears. It's an exquisite treat, especially when combined with the gentle spiciness of cinnamon and the rich aroma of chocolate or cocoa. The cake base is made with a simple yet elegant dough that integrates lemon zest for a hint of freshness. The filling consists of candied pear halves enhanced with pear juice, creating a juicy and soft filling texture. When you top it off with whipped cream and chocolate, this cake becomes a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Perfect for any gathering, this dessert not only pleases the palate but also captivates with its elegant presentation. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion, this cake is sure to be a hit. Serve it with a warm cup of tea or coffee to enhance the experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for the Dough:

• 300 g flour
• 250 g butter
• 250 g sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• 1/2 pack baking powder

For the Filling:

• 8 candied pear halves
• 1/2 cup pear juice
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 4 tablespoons whipped cream
• 1 chocolate bar or cocoa powder
• A pinch of cinnamon

Preparation Time

Total time: **70 minutes** (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Grate the zest of one lemon into the mixture and add the juice for a zingy flavor.
5. Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually fold into the wet mixture until fully combined.
6. Grease a round baking dish and pour the batter into it, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the pear filling.
9. In a saucepan, combine the pear juice, sugar, chocolate (or cocoa powder), and a pinch of cinnamon.
10. Heat the mixture slowly, stirring continuously, for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
11. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
12. Arrange the candied pear halves over the top of the cooled cake.
13. Pour the warm pear juice mixture over the pears and spread it evenly.
14. Let the cake and pears absorb the flavors, allowing the topping to cool and set slightly.
15. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and dollop generously over the pear-topped cake.
16. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or chocolate on top for added decoration and flavor.
17. For the best results, serve the cake slightly chilled, ensuring the flavors meld well together.
18. Cut into slices and serve with an optional scoop of ice cream or a warm drink.
19. Enjoy the delightful blend of buttery cake and juicy pear goodness.
20. Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Tips

• **Substitute pears:** For a different taste, try using apples or peaches.
• **Using fresh pears:** Poach them first in a sugar syrup if you can't find candied pears.
• **Decoration:** Add some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 450 per slice | Protein: 6g | Fats: 22g | Carbs: 58g

Variations

• **Gluten-free:** Replace flour with a gluten-free baking mix.
• **Vegan option:** Use a vegan butter substitute and a flaxseed mixture in place of eggs.

Serving Suggestions

• **With tea or coffee:** The cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of English breakfast tea or espresso.
• **Dessert wine:** Serve with a chilled sweet wine like Moscato for a luxurious finish.

Best Places

• La Pâtisserie des Rêves - A chic café known for its exquisite pastry selections. Location: 93 Rue du Bac, Paris, France.
• Café Demel - Traditional Austrian café with irresistible cakes. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
• The Hummingbird Bakery - Famous for its inventive cupcake variety. Location: 155a Wardour St, Soho, London, UK.
• Pastéis de Belém - Renowned for custard tarts, but offers delightful cakes too. Location: R. de Belém 84-92, Lisbon, Portugal.
• Magnolia Bakery - Classic American desserts and cakes in a cozy setting. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
• Café Sacher - Home of the esteemed Sachertorte, offering other sweets as well. Location: Philharmonikerstr. 4, Vienna, Austria.
• Conditorei Schober - Known for charming ambiance and traditional Swiss pastries. Location: Napfgasse 4, Zurich, Switzerland.
• Tartine Bakery - Offers a delightful spin on classic pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Gerbeaud Café - Lavish spot for cakes and desserts in historic settings. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
• Bourke Street Bakery - Praised for its delectable sweet and savory treats. Location: 633 Bourke St, Sydney, Australia.