• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Pastry Wishes
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • How-tos and Tips
  • Web Stories
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Recipes
  • How-tos and Tips
  • Web Stories
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×

    Home » Recipes » All Recipes

    Pear and Chocolate Cake

    Published: Jan 7, 2023 by Voula with Leave a Comment

    Sharing is caring!

    23 shares
    • Share
    • Tweet
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    This pear and chocolate cake is loaded with sweet, fresh pears. A delicious and impressive chocolate pear dessert that's simple to make, too.

    An overhead shot of a pear and chocolate cake on a black plate and wooden surface.

    Whenever my favorite fruit are in season, I love making desserts with them. There's always a fresh, homemade goodness that comes from using fresh fruit.

    This chocolate cake with pears is amazing. I never expected the flavors to go so well together! I think you will love it, too!

    This chocolate and pear cake recipe is made with fresh ripe pears. It's a very simple chocolate and pear dessert that also makes a great snack cake. And it's perfect with coffee.

    Love desserts with fresh fruit? Try my Portokalopita Greek Orange Phyllo Cake, my Fresh Cherry Dessert (Clafoutis Aux Cerises), my Lemon Pomegranate Cake, or my Fresh Peach Upside Down Cake.

    Table of Contents

    • Why you’ll love this recipe:
    • What does this chocolate pear cake taste like?
    • WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE
    • Equipment you’ll need:
    • HOW TO MAKE CHOCOLATE PEAR CAKE
    • Recipe Notes
    • VARIATIONS & ADD-INS
    • TIPS FOR SUCCESS
    • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
    • MORE CAKE RECIPES TO TRY!
    • Pear and Chocolate Cake
      • Equipment
      • Ingredients
        • For the filling
        • For the cake
        • For the topping
      • Instructions
        • Make the filling
        • Make the cake
        • Make the topping
      • Notes

    Why you’ll love this recipe:

    • It's a cinch to make. You only need a few simple ingredients and 1 pan. No decorating skills, either, as the sliced pears on top make a beautiful design. That's why this pear and chocolate cake recipe is perfect for novice bakers, too.
    • It's pretty. This chocolate pear cake is perfect for entertaining or as a food gift. It would also make a nice birthday cake.
    • It tastes fantastic. Chocolate and pears are incredible together.

    What does this chocolate pear cake taste like?

    This easy pear and chocolate cake is moist, light fluffy and chocolatey. Together with the mildly spiced pears, the flavor combination is wonderful. The pear pieces inside give a nice burst of freshness! I also like the fact that this cake is not overly sweet, so it's great with ice cream or whipped cream.

    A close up of a pear and chocolate cake on a black plate.

    WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

    Ingredients for pear chocolate cake

    Labeled ingredients for pear and chocolate cake.
    Just a few simple ingredients!
    • Pears: I use fresh, ripe pears that are slightly firm. You can use any variety you like.
    • Spices & salt: I use ground cinnamon, ginger and salt.
    • Butter: I use unsalted butter.
    • Sugar: I use light brown sugar for this recipe. It gives a nice caramel flavor that is wonderful with pears and chocolate.
    • Eggs: I use 2 medium organic eggs.
    • Unsweetened cocoa powder: I use dutch-process cocoa powder for the ultimate chocolate flavor. Not sure what the difference is between Dutch-process cocoa and natural cocoa powder? Check out my post about it here.
    • Flour & leaveners: I use all purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
    • Buttermilk: I often make my own homemade buttermilk by adding vinegar to milk. You can definitely make this cake with regular milk instead of buttermilk, if you prefer.
    • Oil: I use light vegetable oil as it really helps to make the cake moist.
    • Vanilla: I use pure vanilla extract.
    An overhead shot of a cut pear and chocolate cake on a black plate and wooden surface.

    Equipment you’ll need:

    • mixing bowls
    • a sifter or sieve
    • parchment paper
    • hand mixer or stand mixer
    • 8 inch (20 cm) baking pan or springform pan

    HOW TO MAKE CHOCOLATE PEAR CAKE

    Step-by-step instructions

    First grease the pan and then line the bottom and the sides with parchment paper. Set it aside.

    Then you make the cake.

    A collage of four photos of making pear and chocolate cake step 1-4.
    A collage of four photos of making pear and chocolate cake step 5-8.
    A collage of four photos of making pear and chocolate cake step 9-12.

    STEP 1

    Start by peeling, coring and chopping 3 pears into small chunks. Try and make them the same size. Then add the cinnamon and ginger and toss or stir everything together. Make sure to cover all the pear pieces. Set it aside.

    STEP 2

    Sift the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder. Add the salt and whisk to combine. Set it aside.

    STEP 3

    In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together, about 2-3 minutes.

    STEP 4

    Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

    STEP 5

    Pour in the oil, buttermilk and vanilla and mix to combine. It's OK if it looks a little curdled.

    STEP 6

    After that, add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. I like to do it in 2 or 3 batches.

    STEP 7

    Then gently fold in the pear pieces.

    STEP 8

    Transfer the cake batter to the prepared pan and even out the surface.

    STEP 9

    Slice the remaining 2 pears. Cut each pear in half, starting from the stem at the top so you have 2 pieces for each pear.

    STEP 10

    Then cut each piece vertically into slices that are about ¼ inch thick (about 0.6cm).

    STEP 11

    Then arrange the slices on top of the batter as shown in picture 11 above.

    Finally, sprinkle some brown sugar on the top and bake the cake.

    Give it some time to cool before removing the cake from the pan.

    I love dusting it with some powdered sugar before serving.

    A slice of pear and chocolate cake on a white plate on a wooden surface with pears in the background.

    Recipe Notes

    Storage Tips

    You can store this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to about 3-4 days.

    Freezing Tips

    I've never frozen this cake because it doesn't usually last that long in my house. Technically, though, you should be able to freeze it. I wouldn't keep it in the freezer longer than a month, though.

    VARIATIONS & ADD-INS

    I think this cake would be great with some mini chocolate chips in the batter. You could also add some chopped nuts for more texture.

    Serve this cake with some vanilla ice cream and homemade chocolate syrup or homemade salted caramel sauce for a more indulgent treat. It is so good with salted caramel sauce!

    A slice of pear and chocolate cake on a black plate topped with a fork and piece of cake.

    TIPS FOR SUCCESS

    • I always weigh my ingredients with a digital scale for accuracy and consistent results. This is particularly important when measuring flour.
    • I used a cake pan for this recipe, but a springform pan would make it a lot easier to remove the cake without the risk of ruining the design on top.

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    Does cake with fruit need to be refrigerated?

    If you don't eat the cake within 2 days, it should be refrigerated. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to about 3-4 days.

    What kind of pears can I use?

    You can use any pear variety you like. Seasonal ripe pears are best.

    Can I use canned pears?

    Yes, but you need to drain them really well first, so that the cake doesn't get soggy.

    Happy Baking!

    MORE CAKE RECIPES TO TRY!

    • Easy Vanilla Swiss Roll Recipe
    • Chocolate Drip Cake
    • Coconut and Jam Cake
    • Earl Grey Lavender Cake

    Let me know how this pear and chocolate cake turns out for you in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you!

    An overhead shot of a pear and chocolate cake on a black plate and wooden surface.
    Print

    Pear and Chocolate Cake

    This pear and chocolate cake is loaded with sweet, fresh pears. A delicious and impressive chocolate pear dessert that's simple to make, too.
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American, European
    Prep Time 25 minutes
    Cook Time 1 hour
    Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
    Servings 6 - 8, approximately
    Author Voula

    Equipment

    • mixing bowls
    • sifter or large sieve
    • hand mixer (or stand mixer)
    • 8 inch (20 cm) baking pan or springform pan
    • parchment paper

    Ingredients

    For the filling

    • 3 small, ripe, but firm pears
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

    For the cake

    • 1 cup + 6 tablespoons (175g) all purpose flour
    • ½ cup (50g/2oz) unsweetened cocoa powder (I use Dutch-processed)
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • ½ teaspoon baking soda
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ½ cup + 1 tablespoon (125g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
    • 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
    • 2 medium eggs, at room temperature
    • ¼ cup (60ml) light vegetable oil
    • ½ cup (125ml) buttermilk, at room temperature (or make your own by adding ½ tablespoon vinegar to ½ a cup of milk and stirring together)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla

    For the topping

    • 2 small, ripe, but firm pears
    • 1-2 tablespoons light brown sugar
    • powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 350° F/ 180° C.
    • Grease the pan and line the bottom and the sides with parchment paper. Set it aside.

    Make the filling

    • Peel, core, and chop 3 pears into chunks and transfer them to a small bowl. Try and make them the same size. Then add the cinnamon and ginger and stir everything together. Make sure to cover all the pear pieces. Set it aside.

    Make the cake

    • Into a large mixing bowl, sift the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder. Add the salt and whisk to combine everything. Set it aside.
    • In another large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with a hand mixer for about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour in the oil, buttermilk and vanilla and mix to combine. It's OK if it looks a little curdled.
    • Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in 2 or 3 batches, and beat until just combined. Scrape the bowl as needed to mix everything well, but don't overmix.
    • Gently fold in the pear pieces.
    • Transfer the cake batter to the prepared pan and even out the surface.

    Make the topping

    • Slice the remaining 2 pears. Cut each pear in half, starting from the stem at the top so you have 2 pieces for each pear. Then cut each piece vertically into slices that are about ¼ inch thick (about 0.6cm). Arrange the slices on top of the batter as shown in the picture in the post.
    • Sprinkle the top with 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar.
    • Bake the cake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
    • Let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before removing it. Place the cake on a wire rack to cool completely.
    • Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
    • Enjoy!

    Notes

    • Every oven is different, so baking times may vary. Check on the cake after about 40-45 minutes.
    Storage Tips:
    You can store this cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to about 4 days.
    Picture Tutorial & Tips:
    I have a detailed picture tutorial in my post to help you out with each step of the recipe as well as lots of tips to ensure success.
    Baking Measurements:
    I have used weight measurements for all the recipes on this website. Even though I have also included American volume measurements for convenience, I highly recommend using a digital kitchen scale to weigh all ingredients for the most accurate measurements. Digital kitchen scales are more precise than cups, which is so important in baking, and they give the most accurate, consistent results. Happy baking!
    ©Pastry Wishes
    « Gingerbread Mug Cake
    Homemade Granola Clusters »

    Reader Interactions

    Thanks for stopping by! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi! I'm Voula!

    about me photo

    I’m a self-taught baker, recipe developer and aspiring food photographer with a passion for baking. I believe making desserts from scratch doesn’t have to be intimidating or complicated. Learn more about me ...

    JOIN MY FREE EMAIL LIST!

    Subscribe for easy-to-follow recipes, how-tos, and tips!

    Thank you!

    You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

    .

    Yum

    Healthy

    • Easy Apple Chips
    • Strawberry Banana Chocolate Smoothie
    • HEALTHY TAHINI BREAKFAST COOKIES – VEGAN, GF, REFINED SUGAR FREE, OIL FREE
    • How to Make Ancient Greek Sesame Bars - Pasteli

    Popular

    • Easy Vanilla Swiss Roll Recipe
    • MANDARIN MARMALADE (Without Pectin + Tips)
    • 3 Ingredient Oreo Cake
    • How to Make Peanut Butter (Step-by-step Tutorial)
    • Greek Ekmek Kataifi
    • Virgin Mojito Recipe With Sprite
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    INFO

    • About
    • Privacy Policy

    FOLLOW

    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Facebook
    • Twitter

    RECIPES

    • All Recipes

    CONTACT

    • Contact Us

    Copyright © 2023 Pastry Wishes

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT