Chocolate Pear Upside Cake

Name: Chocolate Pear Upside Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and juicy pears with this Chocolate Pear Upside Cake.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:42:30.289Z

This Chocolate Pear Upside Cake is a showstopper that marries the deep, luscious flavor of chocolate with the natural sweetness of pears. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh pear sweetness
Moist and tender texture with a caramelized topping
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Chocolate Pear Upside Cake embodies a perfect balance of rich flavors and textures. The deep, dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of ripe pears, creating a harmonious dessert that pleases the palate. Each bite offers a unique contrast—smooth chocolate cake, tender caramelized pears, and a delightful hint of butter. This cake is not just a treat but an experience, making it a must-try for any chocolate lover.

The use of fresh pears adds an element of freshness that elevates the cake from ordinary to extraordinary. As the cake bakes, the pears soften and infuse the chocolate batter with their juices, enriching the overall flavor. This delightful mix ensures that every slice is moist and packed with a burst of fruity goodness, making it an enjoyable dessert any time of the year.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Chocolate Pear Upside Cake, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you start mixing. This will help it cream more efficiently with sugar, resulting in a light and airy batter. Additionally, using ripe pears is crucial; they should yield slightly to pressure for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet. This will help maintain the cake's tender crumb.

Don’t rush the cooling process after baking. Allow the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate. This step ensures that the caramelized topping holds together nicely and doesn’t stick to the pan. If you want to enhance the presentation, consider dusting the top with powdered sugar or serving it with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

Prepare the Pears

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Pour this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan.

Arrange the sliced pears over the caramel mixture.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine and Bake

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined. Pour the batter over the pears in the cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let it cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Pear Upside Cake makes for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering. Serve it as a dessert after dinner, alongside a glass of dessert wine, for a truly memorable evening. It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream, adding a creamy contrast to the cake's rich chocolate flavor.

For a special brunch treat, consider serving this cake with coffee or tea. It’s an excellent choice for a sweet start to the day or a delightful afternoon snack. The combination of chocolate and fruit makes it versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftover cake (which is rare, but possible), storing it properly is key to keeping it fresh. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly.

If you want to freeze the cake, it’s best to slice it into portions first. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of pears?

Yes, apples or peaches can be great alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it covered.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!