Chocolate Ganache Pear Upside-Down Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the silky richness of chocolate with the natural sweetness of fresh pears, this Chocolate Ganache Pear Upside-Down Cake is about to become your new favorite. It’s a stunning, moist cake layered with tender pear slices caramelized on top, finished with a luscious chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to impressive gatherings—this cake is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Chocolate Ganache Pear Upside-Down Cake wins hearts for several reasons. First, the upside-down presentation showcases beautifully caramelized pears that add a juicy, fruity contrast to the rich chocolate flavor. The cake itself is tender and moist, featuring cocoa powder that deepens the chocolate notes without overpowering the pears. Topped with a smooth, velvety ganache, every bite feels indulgent yet balanced. It’s a dessert that feels homemade and special at the same time, appealing to both chocolate lovers and fruit fans alike. Plus, the combination of textures—from gooey ganache to soft cake and slightly crisp edges—keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredient Notes

• Ripe Pears: Choose large, ripe pears that are firm but juicy, like Bartlett or Anjou. Peeling and slicing them thin ensures they caramelize evenly on the bottom of the pan.
• Granulated Sugar: Used for caramelizing the pears and sweetening the cake. This creates a perfect golden, slightly crispy layer beneath the fruit.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened for the batter and used in the caramel layer. Butter adds richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Large eggs provide structure, moisture, and richness to the cake.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic background flavor that complements both the pears and chocolate.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake, providing structure.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor while keeping the cake light and tender.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Melted with cream to create a luscious ganache topping.
• Heavy Cream: Combined with chocolate chips to make the silky ganache. Use fresh cream for the best texture.

Recommended Tools

• 9-inch Round Cake Pan: Ideal for this upside-down cake to ensure even cooking and easy release.
• Mixing Bowls: Multiple bowls for wet and dry ingredients to keep the process organized.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: For creaming butter and sugar and mixing the batter smoothly.
• Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients and scraping down the bowl.
• Sharp Knife: To peel and slice the pears thinly and evenly.
• Small Saucepan: To gently heat the cream and melt the chocolate for ganache.
• Cooling Rack: Allows the cake to cool properly after baking.
• Offset Spatula (optional): Helpful for spreading ganache evenly on the cake.

Build Chocolate Ganache Pear Upside-Down Cake Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Pears and Caramel Layer

Peel and slice 2 large ripe pears into thin, even slices. In your 9-inch cake pan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over low heat, then sprinkle 1 cup of granulated sugar evenly over the melted butter. Arrange the pear slices in a single layer on top of the sugar-butter mixture, slightly overlapping them to cover the entire bottom of the pan. Set aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter gently over the arranged pears in the cake pan, spreading evenly with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

While the cake cools, heat 1/4 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Flip and Frost

Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside-down on top of the cake pan, then carefully flip the cake over to reveal the caramelized pear topping. Allow the cake to cool completely, then drizzle or spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the top. Slice and serve!

Make It Your Way

• Swap pears for apples or peaches for a different fruity twist.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for extra warmth.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer ganache flavor.
• Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans beneath the pears for crunch.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Cake Sticking to the Pan: Ensure your cake pan is well-greased and lined with parchment paper if needed. Running a knife around the edges before flipping helps.
• Undercooked Center: Use a toothpick test. If wet batter remains, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye so it doesn’t dry out.
• Ganache Too Thick: Warm gently and stir in a splash more cream to loosen.
• Ganache Too Runny: Chill in the fridge to firm up before spreading.
• Pears Not Caramelizing: Ensure the butter and sugar melt fully before adding pears, and arrange pears snugly to help them cook evenly.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This cake stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or heat the whole cake gently in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Quick Questions

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Fresh pears are best for caramelization and texture, but if using canned pears, drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but it will still be tasty.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a dairy-free cream alternative like coconut cream for the ganache. Choose dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it consistent.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the cake is done. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Can I prepare the ganache ahead of time?

Absolutely! Ganache can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Warm gently before spreading to restore its smooth texture.

Cook This Next

• Classic Pear Cake – A simple, rustic pear cake with a tender crumb.
• Chocolate Pear Upside-Down Cake – Another chocolate and pear delight with a fruity twist.
• One-Bowl Chocolate Cake – For chocolate lovers who want a quick and easy chocolate cake.
• Basic Chocolate Ganache Recipe – Master the perfect ganache to top all your desserts.

Wrap-Up

This Chocolate Ganache Pear Upside-Down Cake is a perfect balance of fruit sweetness and chocolate richness, baked into a moist, tender cake with a show-stopping presentation. The combination of caramelized pears and silky ganache makes for an unforgettable dessert experience that’s sure to impress your family and guests. With easy-to-follow steps and flexible ingredient options, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this cake delivers warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance in every bite.

Treat yourself to this delightful dessert, and watch as it becomes a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

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