If you are looking for that show stopping pudding recipe then check out this Spiced Pear Tarte Tatin that serves 6-8. It is sure to leave your guests impressed, full and happy (and if you are still looking for a starter then check out our tomato and roasted red pepper soup).
INGREDIENTS
3 pears (we love Williams pears if you can get your hands on them)
80g salted butter, plus more for brushing
120g caster sugar
½ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp Organic Ceylon Cinnamon Powder (True)
½ tsp ground cardamom (from 4 pods)
½ tsp vanilla powder or essence
Pinch of salt
2 tbsp brandy
Juice ¼ of a lemon
500g block all-butter puff pastry
The Collective Pear + Maple yoghurt, to serve
METHOD
1. Peel and core the pears then cut into wedges approx. 1-2cm thick. Take the pastry out of the fridge to bring to room temperature.
2. Melt the butter and sugar on a medium heat in an ovenproof pan that is roughly 20-22cm wide. When the sugar has dissolved, add the spices, vanilla and a pinch of salt and stir to combine. Add the brandy and let it bubble for a moment then squeeze in the lemon juice.
3. Turn the heat down slightly and add the pears to the caramel, spooning the caramel over them so they’re covered. Cook them gently for around 10 minutes until tender but retaining their shape. Turn the heat off and allow to cool slightly.
4. Meanwhile, heat your oven to 190°C (fan) and roll the pastry out using a rolling pin to about the thickness of a £1 coin. You may need to lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Using a plate that is slightly larger than your pan, cut the pastry into a circle, wrapping the offcuts in Clingfilm and store in the fridge to use in another recipe.
5. Arrange the pear slices prettily in the pan. Drape the pastry over the pears and tuck the edges snugly around the pears and down the sides of the pan. Brush the top of the pastry lightly with butter and pierce a few times with a fork.
6. Put the pan in the oven and cook for 30-35 minutes until the pastry is golden and has puffed up. Take out of the oven and let sit for 10 minutes before running a knife around the outside and turning the tart onto a serving plate.
Serve the Spiced Pear Tarte Tatin immediately with The Collective Pear ‘n’ Maple on the side for a scrumptious and filling pudding.
Recipe and photo credit – Olivia Williamson
If you are looking for more recipe ideas then check out these 8 plum recipes for inspiration.