Spiced Pear Galette is a rustic and elegant dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of pears enhanced with warm spices, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. This free-form tart is both visually appealing and delicious, making it a perfect centerpiece for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a comforting yet sophisticated dessert.
1.Ingredients
For the Galette Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
For the Filling:
- 4 ripe pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (such as turbinado) for sprinkling
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
For Serving (Optional):
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
2.Instructions
1. Prepare the Galette Crust:
a. Combine Dry Ingredients: – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
b. Cut in the Butter: – Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. – Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces.
c. Add Ice Water: – Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough begins to come together. You may not need all the water. – Be careful not to overwork the dough to ensure a tender crust.
d. Form and Chill the Dough: – Gather the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 days.
2. Prepare the Filling:
a. Mix Ingredients: – In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced pears, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, lemon juice, all-purpose flour (or cornstarch), and vanilla extract. – Gently toss to ensure the pears are evenly coated with the sugar and spice mixture. – Let the filling sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Galette:
a. Preheat Oven: – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
b. Roll Out the Dough: – On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. – Transfer the rolled dough to the prepared baking sheet.
c. Add the Filling: – Spoon the spiced pear mixture into the center of the dough, leaving about a 2-inch border around the edges.
d. Fold the Crust: – Gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating it as needed to create a rustic, free-form tart. The center will remain exposed.
e. Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: – Brush the exposed dough with the beaten egg. – Sprinkle the coarse sugar evenly over the brushed areas.
4. Bake the Galette:
a. Bake: – Place the galette in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
b. Cool: – Remove the galette from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for about 15 minutes. – Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.
5. Serve:
a. Optional Toppings: – Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. – Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
3.Tips for Success
- Chilling the Dough: Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling to prevent it from becoming too soft and difficult to handle. Cold butter creates a flaky crust.
- Preventing Soggy Crust: Toss the pears in a bit of flour or cornstarch to absorb excess juices, helping to keep the crust crisp.
- Even Slicing: Use a sharp knife or a mandoline to slice the pears uniformly for even cooking.
- Flavor Balance: Adjust the spices according to your preference. For a warmer flavor, consider adding a pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Prevent Over-Browning: If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil or a pie shield.
4.Variations
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds over the filling before folding the crust for added crunch and flavor.
- Cheese Incorporation: Add a layer of creamy goat cheese or mascarpone beneath the pear filling for a rich, tangy contrast.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange zest or substitute lemon juice with orange juice for a citrusy brightness.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter substitute and replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk or aquafaba mixture.
- Spiced Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked galette for an extra layer of sweetness and decadence.
5.Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Sugars: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
6. Background & Popularity
The Spiced Pear Galette embodies the essence of rustic elegance, combining the simplicity of a free-form tart with the sophistication of spiced fruit filling. Galettes have a long history in French cuisine, traditionally made as a way to use seasonal fruits in a visually appealing yet straightforward presentation. The pear, a beloved fruit known for its delicate flavor and juicy texture, pairs wonderfully with warm spices, making it a quintessential autumn dessert.
This galette’s popularity stems from its versatility and ease of preparation. Unlike more structured tarts, galettes require minimal shaping, allowing for a relaxed baking experience without sacrificing taste or appearance. The combination of flaky pastry and spiced pears appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a favorite at both casual family dinners and formal gatherings.
Moreover, the Spiced Pear Galette aligns with the seasonal shift, highlighting pears’ peak availability in the fall and their natural compatibility with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Its adaptability also allows for numerous variations, catering to different dietary preferences and creative flavor explorations, further cementing its place in the repertoire of beloved desserts.
Whether you’re an experienced baker looking to showcase your skills or a novice eager to try a charming and delicious dessert, the Spiced Pear Galette is a superb choice. Its harmonious blend of flavors, inviting aroma, and stunning presentation are sure to delight guests and satisfy sweet cravings alike.