Name: Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ripe but firm pears, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for topping); 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for batter); 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk

Golden, caramelized pears nestled into a warm, spiced cake that flips into a showstopper the moment it’s turned out of the pan — this Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake is as stunning as it is scrumptious. With notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a brown sugar buttery base, each bite melts in your mouth with soft, tender crumb and cozy fruit flavor.

This dessert is ideal for fall and winter gatherings, but truthfully, it deserves to be baked year-round. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for Sunday supper or a festive centerpiece for your holiday table, this cake brings rustic charm and elegance in one perfect slice.

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

This cake delivers serious flavor with simple ingredients. The spiced batter pairs beautifully with the caramelized pear topping, creating a balanced sweetness that isn’t too rich. It’s easy enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Plus, it looks gorgeous straight out of the oven — no frosting or decorating needed.

What Kind of Pears Work Best for This Cake?

Bosc and Anjou pears are fantastic choices because they hold their shape well during baking. Make sure the pears are ripe but still firm — overripe pears will get mushy and lose their definition. Thinly slice them for that signature pinwheel effect on top (which becomes the bottom once flipped).

Ingredients for the Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

Each component of this cake contributes to its depth of flavor and tender texture. Here’s why each ingredient matters:

Pears: The star of the show. Choose firm, ripe pears like Bosc for the best texture.
Brown Sugar: Forms a caramel base that seeps into the pears and gives a rich, molasses depth.
Butter: Adds richness and creates that golden crust.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These warming spices give the cake its cozy, fall-forward flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cake batter.
Baking Powder: Gives the cake lift and a tender crumb.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Eggs: Bind the batter and provide structure.
Vanilla Extract: Adds sweet aromatic depth.
Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and moist.

How To Make the Spiced Pear Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pear Topping

Grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Melt butter and brown sugar in a small saucepan until bubbly, then pour into the bottom of the pan. Arrange the pear slices in a circular pattern over the mixture.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar, then beat in eggs and vanilla. Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Carefully spoon the batter over the arranged pears and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake rest 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

How to Serve and Store This Cake

This cake feeds 8 to 10 people and is best served slightly warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream. It makes an excellent brunch sweet or cozy dessert.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm slices in the microwave or a low oven to revive the soft, buttery crumb.