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 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

Indulge in this delightful chocolate pear upside cake that combines rich chocolate with sweet, juicy pears for a heavenly dessert experience.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-01T18:10:30.218Z

This Chocolate Pear Upside Cake is a unique twist on a classic dessert. The combination of rich chocolate and tender pears creates a moist and flavorful cake that is perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with sweet ripe pears
Decadent and moist texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

This chocolate pear upside cake is a perfect harmony of rich and fruity flavors. The deep, luscious chocolate pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of ripe pears, creating a dessert that is both decadent and refreshing. Each bite offers a delightful contrast, where the smooth chocolate cake meets the tender, juicy fruit, making it irresistible to chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.

The use of unsweetened cocoa powder ensures that the chocolate flavor is robust without being overly sweet. This allows the pears to shine through, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cake. The combination of textures—from the moist cake to the soft, caramelized pears—adds an exciting element to your dessert experience.

A Showstopper Dessert

Not only is this chocolate pear upside cake delicious, but it also makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering. The inverted design reveals a stunning layer of pear slices topped with a glossy caramel glaze, inviting everyone to dig in. It's the kind of dessert that sparks conversation and compliments, ensuring that your baking skills are recognized and appreciated.

Whether it's a birthday celebration, a holiday feast, or a casual get-together with friends, this cake fits the occasion perfectly. Its warm, inviting aroma fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that draws people in, making them eager to taste this delightful creation.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To achieve the best results, be sure to use ripe pears that are still firm. Overripe pears can become mushy during baking, which may alter the texture of the cake. Additionally, when preparing the batter, avoid overmixing after adding the dry ingredients; this helps maintain the cake's light and airy consistency.

If you want to elevate the flavor further, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract to the batter. These subtle enhancements can add depth to the chocolate and complement the pears beautifully, creating a more complex flavor profile that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Stir until melted and smooth. Pour the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan.

Arrange the Pears

Layer the sliced pears evenly over the sugar mixture in the cake pan.

Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and buttermilk.

Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Combine and Bake

Pour the batter over the pears in the pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious chocolate pear upside cake!

Serving Suggestions

This chocolate pear upside cake is delightful on its own, but serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes it to the next level. The creaminess of the ice cream balances the rich chocolate and complements the sweetness of the pears, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

For an extra touch, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce or caramel over the top just before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cake can also be refrigerated, but be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it back to room temperature before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pears for this recipe?

Yes, but be 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 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.