Mary Berry Upside Down Pear Cake
Mary Berry Upside Down Pear Cake
I. Introduction
Mary Berry is a famous name in British cooking. She is known for her easy recipes that make people feel warm and nostalgic. With many years of experience, Mary has changed how people cook at home in the UK, making it enjoyable and straightforward. Her upside-down pear cake is a great example of her style—it’s easy to make yet looks nice, making it a favorite for parties or a cozy afternoon tea. We will explore the history and nutrition of this cake, and we’ll also share a vegan version for those who prefer plant-based options.
II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context
Mary Berry highlights the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients in her recipes. The upside-down cake is thought to have started in the 19th century, influenced by French cooking, where fruit was placed at the bottom of a cake pan. Over the years, this dish became a favorite in British homes.
Mary Berry’s recipe celebrates this tradition while adding her own special twist—using ripe pears, a soft sponge, and a caramel base that boosts the flavors. Her focus on using good ingredients means that her cakes not only taste great but also show the best of British baking.
Sources:
- “Mary Berry’s Baking Bible” by Mary Berry
III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients:
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 150g caster sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 200g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 50ml whole milk
- 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 100g brown sugar (for caramel)
- Juice of 1 lemon
Equipment:
- 20cm round cake tin
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Baking parchment
IV. Recipe Instructions
Prepare the Pears: First of all, In a saucepan, melt the brown sugar with a little water until it becomes a caramel. After this, Add the sliced pears and lemon juice, cooking until just tender. Pour this mixture into the base of the prepared cake tin.
Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and baking powder. Gradually fold this into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk until smooth.
Pour and Bake: Carefully spoon the batter over the caramelized pears in the cake tin, smoothing the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: After this, Allow the cake to cool in the tin for approximately 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.
V. Flavor Profile & Nutritional Information
The upside-down pear cake features a moist sponge with a rich caramel flavor complemented by the natural sweetness of the pears. Each slice offers a delightful contrast between the tender fruit topping and the soft cake underneath.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugars: 20g
(Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
VI. Tips for a Perfect Upside Down Pear Cake
- Troubleshooting Common Issues: If your cake is too watery, ensure the pears are not overcooked before layering. A bland flavor can be improved with a pinch of salt in the batter.
- Enhancing Flavor: Use aged cheddar in savory variations or add a breadcrumb topping for texture.
- Variations: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or substitute pears with apples or peaches for a different twist.
VII. Alternative (Vegan Version)
Ingredients:
- 100g coconut oil, melted
- 150g coconut sugar
- 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water, mixed and set aside)
- 200g self-raising flour
- 50ml almond milk
- 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
- First of all, Prepare the caramel with coconut sugar and water, adding pears.
- Mix melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and flax eggs.
- Combine dry ingredients, fold in the wet mixture, pour over pears, and bake as above.
VIII. Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also drizzle a caramel sauce over each slice for an added treat.
IX. Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store the cake in an airtight container for up to approximately 3 days at room temperature. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy cold.
X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, apples, peaches, or even mixed berries work beautifully.
- How can I make it gluten-free? Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Can I prepare it in advance? Yes, the cake can be made a day ahead and stored, allowing the flavors to meld.
XI. Conclusion & Call to Action
This upside-down pear cake is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a perfect addition to any occasion. Try this recipe and share your experience! Explore other delightful recipes on Mary Berry’s official website and discover more inspiration.
