Pear and Almond Frangipane Cake – Gluten Free

This Gluten Free Pear and Almond Frangipane Dessert features a buttery gluten-free crust and a rich frangipane filling made from almonds, butter, sugar, and a touch of almond extract topped with fresh pears. This classic French dessert, also known as “Pear and Almond Tart,” is very popular throughout Europe. 

Gluten-Free Pear and Almond Frangipane Cake: Flavor and Texture

This French classic features a gluten-free buttery pastry crust filled with a rich almond frangipane layer, made from ground almonds, butter, sugar, eggs, and a hint of almond extract. The frangipane filling adds a dense, nutty texture, bringing extra richness to this delicious cake.

Recipe Details

the gluten free pastry crust

The crust is lightly sweetened, has a buttery texture, and the dough does not need rolling. Once you mix the ingredients for the crust, press the mixture on the bottom of the cake pan, a very simple gluten free pastry crust. If you use a tart pan, you must press the dough up the sides of the pan as well.

the frangipane

Frangipane is a rich, buttery, almond flavored cake layer; and all you need is 5 ingredients.

the pears

The fresh pears are peeled, cored, sliced, then blanched in water flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and some sugar. Then the tender pear slices are placed on top of the frangipane layer and topped with sliced almonds. The pears sink slightly into the frangipane during baking, creating a beautiful pear pattern on the cake.

Best pears to use in baking

Look for varieties like Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc due to their sweet and juicy qualities. Choose ripe but firm pears for the best taste and texture.

Should you blanch the pears first for pear and almond frangipane cake?

Blanching the pears before using them in a pear and almond frangipane cake is a personal choice.

Blanching the pears first gives them more flavor because they are blanched in flavored water. It’s especially important to do this when the pears are very firm.

If you choose to use fresh raw pears in this French dessert, use ripe pears with some firmness. They will soften and cook through as the cake bakes. This allows the pears to retain their natural juices and flavors.

How to blanch pears

If you want to add extra flavor to the pears, blanch them in flavored water. To do this, bring a pot of water mixed with cinnamon, cloves, and sugar to a boil. Add the peeled, cored, and quartered pears and cook until they become slightly tender. Anywhere between 5 – 10 minutes, depending on the firmness of the pear. Then drain and cool them before adding to the frangipane layer.

Blanching the pears ensures they are more flavorful and uniformly tender and will cook evenly with the cake. However, it’s not necessary for pear and almond frangipane cake if the pears are sweet and juicy.

If you are looking for a super easy pear dessert recipe, try this Gluten-Free French Pear Cake or the Gluten Free Upside-Down Pear Dutch Baby Recipe.

serving suggestions for pear and almond frangipane cake

Pear and almond frangipane cake is delicious as is, but you can also enhance its flavors and presentation by serving it with various accompaniments. 

Here are some ideas:

Whipped cream: Serve a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream alongside each slice of cake. The creamy texture of the whipped cream complements the moist cake and adds a touch of indulgence.

Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm pear and almond frangipane cake. The cold and creamy ice cream melts slightly over the warm cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.

Crème anglaise: Drizzle a luscious crème anglaise sauce over the cake. Crème anglaise is a rich vanilla custard sauce that adds a velvety smoothness and a hint of sweetness.

Almond Butter Caramel sauce: Drizzle some warm almond butter caramel sauce over the cake to add a caramelized sweetness and a touch of decadence. The caramel flavor complements the flavors of the pears and almonds.

A dusting of powdered sugar: Just before serving, dust the cake with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. This adds a touch of elegance to the cake’s appearance.

Serving Gluten-Free Pear and Almond Frangipane Cake

One of the great things about this cake is its versatility in serving temperatures:

Warm: Enjoy the cake warm for a gooey, flavor-enhancing experience. The warmth brings out the aromas and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Cool slightly after baking or reheat individual slices before serving.

Room Temperature: Letting the cake cool completely at room temperature lets the flavors settle and the texture firm up. It’s easier to slice and handle, with more pronounced pear and almond flavors.

Cold: Chilling the cake in the refrigerator gives it a denser texture and cleaner slices, making it a refreshing option, especially in warmer months. Cool the cake completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours before serving.

Ultimately, whether you prefer it warm, at room temperature, or chilled, each option offers a unique flavor and texture.

French Pear and Almond Cake: Recipe Review

French pear and almond cake is a gluten-free dessert that beautifully blends the fruity sweetness of pears with the rich flavor of almonds. This sweet and tasty tart is easy to make with fewer than 10 ingredients and can be enjoyed in various ways: warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Whether you choose to serve it plain or with toppings, it’s a simple yet indulgent dessert. Enjoy!

Let’s connect

Meet Kristina. Passionate about creating delicious, innovative gluten free recipes, and author of two gluten free cookbooks, “Entertaining The Gluten Free Way” and “Small Bites The Gluten Free Way”.

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