Introduction
Pear Almond Tart is a classic French-inspired dessert that combines the sweet, juicy flavor of pears with the nutty richness of almond filling. This easy-to-make tart has a crispy, buttery crust, a smooth almond cream (frangipane), and perfectly baked pears for a deliciously elegant treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want a delightful homemade dessert, this Pear Almond Tart is sure to impress! The beauty of this tart lies in its simple yet sophisticated flavors. The natural sweetness of pears complements the rich almond cream, making it a perfect balance of taste and texture. Plus, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginners, and delivers a bakery-quality dessert right from your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Easy and beginner-friendly with simple ingredients.
- A perfect balance of fruity and nutty flavors.
- Looks impressive but is easy to make at home.
- Great for any occasion – from casual gatherings to fancy dinners.
- Can be made ahead of time and stored for convenience.
Origin of Pear Almond Tart
The Pear Almond Tart, also known as Tarte Bordallo, originated in France in the late 19th century. It was first created in a Parisian pastry shop on Rue Bordallo and quickly became a popular dessert across France. The combination of pears and almond frangipane filling is a signature of French baking, creating a delicious and timeless classic.
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tbsp cold water
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Almond Filling (Frangipane):
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
For the Pear Topping:
- 3 ripe pears (peeled, cored, and sliced thinly)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp apricot jam (for glazing, optional)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add cold butter and mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Almond Filling
- In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, almond flour, vanilla, and almond extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart
- Roll out the chilled dough and place it in a tart pan.
- Spread the almond filling evenly over the crust.
- Arrange pear slices in a fan-like pattern on top of the filling.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 4: Glaze and Serve
- Warm apricot jam and brush over the tart for a glossy finish.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Pears – High in fiber and vitamin C.
- Almonds – Packed with healthy fats and protein.
- Eggs – A great source of high-quality protein.
- Butter – Provides essential fat-soluble vitamins.
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Tips for the Best Pear Almond Tart
- Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture.
- Chill the dough before rolling to prevent shrinkage.
- Slice pears thinly and evenly for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the dough – can result in a tough crust.
- Using overly ripe pears – they can become too soft during baking.
- Skipping the glaze – it adds a beautiful shine and enhances the flavor.
Serving Tips
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra elegance.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine.
Interesting Facts About Pear Almond Tart
- Tarte Bordallo is a staple in French bakeries.
- Pears are considered a symbol of longevity and good fortune in some cultures.
- Almonds have been used in baking for centuries due to their rich, nutty taste
- This tart can also be made with apples, peaches, or cherries as variations.
Summarized Recipe
- Prepare tart crust, chill, and roll out.
- Make almond filling, spread over the crust.
- Slice and arrange pears on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes.
- Glaze with apricot jam and serve.
Conclusion
This Delicious Pear Almond Tart is a quick, elegant, and delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy crust, creamy almond filling, and juicy pears, every bite is a harmonious blend of flavors. Try this recipe today and bring a touch of French bakery charm to your home baking!
