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: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup molasses; 2 cups peeled and diced pears; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Cozy Dessert Classics

A delightful fusion of spiced gingerbread and sweet pears, perfect for the cozy winter months.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-20T12:01:50.489Z

This Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake combines the warmth of gingerbread spices with the natural sweetness of ripe pears. Each slice is a comforting treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors
Moist texture that pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream
Great for holiday gatherings or as a cozy dessert at home

      

The Perfect Winter Dessert

As the winter chill sets in, there's nothing quite like a warm slice of cake to bring comfort and joy. The Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake encapsulates the essence of the season with its rich, spiced flavors and the natural sweetness of pears. This cake is not just a treat; it's a celebration of winter ingredients that will leave you craving more.

Gingerbread has long been associated with holiday festivities, and when combined with fresh pears, it creates a delightful contrast that enhances each bite. The moist texture of the cake ensures that every slice is satisfying, while the spices warm you from the inside out. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a dessert after dinner, this cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Perfect for Gatherings

Hosting a holiday gathering? The Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake is an ideal centerpiece for your dessert table. Its unique flavor profile will intrigue your guests and spark conversations. Not only does it taste incredible, but it also looks stunning when glazed, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

This cake is versatile enough to be served at various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive holiday parties. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience further. Your guests will appreciate the effort you put into this homemade delight.

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 the flour to avoid packing it down, which can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, allow your butter to soften at room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugar.

When it comes to the pears, choose ripe but firm varieties to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking. Dicing them into small, uniform pieces will also help them distribute evenly throughout the cake, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Don't rush the baking process; make sure to test for doneness with a toothpick to ensure the center is fully cooked.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup molasses
2 cups peeled and diced pears

For the Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix well and ensure all ingredients are incorporated.

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 large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Molasses

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Cool and Glaze

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and serve.

Enjoy your delicious Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake!

Serving Suggestions

The Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake is delightful on its own, but you can enhance it further with various accompaniments. A simple dollop of whipped cream adds a rich, creamy element that balances the spices perfectly. For a more indulgent treat, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the warmth of the cake to melt the ice cream slightly for a luscious experience.

Consider garnishing the cake with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few sliced pears on top for a decorative touch. This not only makes for a more visually appealing dessert but also emphasizes the key ingredients in the cake. Your guests will be impressed with the presentation and the flavor.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Capricorn Pear Gingerbread Cake, you're in luck! This cake stores wonderfully, maintaining its moisture and flavors even a few days later. Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can have a cozy winter treat ready to go whenever the cravings strike!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of pears?

Yes! Apples or peaches would also work well in this recipe.

→ How should I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without the glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend of your choice.