RecipesSwitzerlandBirnenblootz

Birnenblootz

A rustic and comforting pear cake, often baked in a simple rectangular pan. It features tender pears baked into a moist batter, perfect for an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Servings8
DifficultyEasy
Birnenblootz - Switzerland traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 kg Pears(firm but ripe, peeled, cored, and sliced)
  • 250 g All-purpose flour
  • 150 g Sugar
  • 125 g Butter(softened)
  • 3 large Eggs
  • 50 ml Milk
  • 1 tsp Baking powder
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice
  • for dusting Powdered sugar

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a rectangular baking pan (approx. 20x30 cm or 8x12 inches).

    💡 Tip: Lining the pan with parchment paper can make removal easier.
  2. 2

    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the milk.

    💡 Tip: Ensure butter is at room temperature for best creaming.
  3. 3

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

    💡 Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients can result in a lighter cake.
  4. 4

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the lemon juice.

    💡 Tip: Avoid overmixing the batter.
  5. 5

    Arrange the sliced pears in the prepared baking pan. Pour the batter evenly over the pears.

    💡 Tip: You can also mix some pear slices into the batter before pouring.
  6. 6

    Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.

    ⏱️ 45-50 minutes
  7. 7

    Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

    💡 Tip: Serving warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream is delightful.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use firm pears that hold their shape when baked, like Bosc or Anjou.
  • Don't overmix the batter to ensure a tender crumb.
  • A sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon on top before baking can create a lovely crust.

🔄 Variations

  • Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter.
  • A splash of Kirschwasser (cherry brandy) can be added to the batter for an extra flavor dimension.

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