Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake

Name: Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup molasses; 1 cup ripe pears, peeled and diced; ½ cup chopped nuts (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tbsp milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Whisked Delight Recipes

A delightful fusion of warm spices, sweet pears, and rich gingerbread flavors, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T10:41:49.286Z

This Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that will warm your heart. The combination of juicy pears and spiced gingerbread creates a deliciously moist cake that is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique twist on traditional gingerbread with the addition of fresh pears.
Aromatic spices that fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort.
Perfectly moist texture that pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream.

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake is a delightful treat that beautifully marries the warmth of traditional gingerbread spices with the sweetness of fresh pears. The combination of ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with inviting scents, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or holiday celebrations. With each bite, you'll discover a harmonious blend of flavors that tantalize your taste buds.

The ripe pears not only add natural sweetness but also contribute to the cake's moist texture, ensuring that every slice is a delightful experience. This recipe invites the essence of fall into your home, celebrating the season's bounty while providing a comforting dessert that everyone will love.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake turns out perfectly, start by measuring your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid a dense cake. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, which helps in creating a light and fluffy batter when creamed with brown sugar.

Don't rush the mixing process; incorporate the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture to maintain the cake's airy texture. If you’re adding nuts, consider toasting them lightly beforehand to enhance their flavor and add a delightful crunch to your cake.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the warm spices, enhancing the overall flavor experience. For an added touch, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top for visual appeal.

If you're looking to impress guests, you can also pair the cake with a warm spiced tea or a rich coffee. The flavors of the beverage will harmonize beautifully with the cake, making it an ideal choice for an afternoon tea or a cozy dessert after dinner.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup molasses
1 cup ripe pears, peeled and diced
½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add Molasses

Stir in the molasses until fully incorporated.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the diced pears and nuts, if using.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. If desired, mix the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this delightful cake with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storage Tips

To keep your Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week. Just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you have leftover cake, you can also freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can pull out a slice whenever you crave a sweet treat, keeping the joy of this delightful cake alive.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can experiment with different types of pears or even substitute them with apples for a different flavor profile. Adding a splash of orange juice or zest can brighten the spices, giving the cake a refreshing twist.

For a more decadent version, consider incorporating chocolate chips or a layer of cream cheese frosting. These variations not only enhance the cake but also make it suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for molasses?

You can use honey or maple syrup, but the flavor will differ slightly.