Here’s a flavorful and easy-to-make Pear Frangipane Tart that is perfect for any occasion. This elegant dessert features a buttery, crisp tart crust filled with a luscious almond frangipane cream and topped with beautifully arranged pear slices. The combination of the nutty, sweet filling and tender poached pears creates a stunning and delicious treat.
I first came across this recipe while exploring classic French desserts. After some experimentation, I crafted a homemade version that balances the richness of the frangipane with the natural sweetness of pears. Now, it’s one of my favorite go-to desserts for special occasions or a cozy weekend indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Pear Frangipane Tart
- Elegant Presentation – A visually stunning tart that impresses guests.
- Rich and Buttery Flavor – A perfect balance of sweet pears and nutty almond filling.
- Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for holidays, brunch, or a refined dessert.
- Customizable – Can be adapted with different fruits or nuts for variation.
Ingredients Notes
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1-2 tbsp cold water, as needed
For the Frangipane Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Pear Topping:
- 2-3 ripe pears, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey or apricot jam (for glazing)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch tart pan
- Food processor or hand mixer
- Pastry brush
How to Make This Pear Frangipane Tart
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust
- In a food processor, combine flour and powdered sugar. Add chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough and press it into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Frangipane Filling
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Stir in almond flour, all-purpose flour, and almond extract until combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart
- Spread the frangipane filling evenly into the pre-baked tart crust.
- Arrange pear slices on top in a decorative pattern.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and golden.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Warm honey or apricot jam and lightly brush it over the pears for a glossy finish.
- Let the tart cool before slicing and serving.
Storage Options
Proper storage is essential to keep your Pear Frangipane Tart fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it effectively:
Short-Term Storage (Room Temperature)
- If you plan to consume the tart within 24 hours, you can leave it at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
- Cover the tart loosely with foil or a cake dome to prevent it from drying out.
- Avoid placing it near direct sunlight or heat sources.
Refrigeration (For Longer Freshness)
- For up to 4 days, store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Allow the tart to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation, which could make the crust soggy.
- When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing (Long-Term Storage)
- The Pear Frangipane Tart freezes well for up to 3 months if stored correctly.
- Wrap the whole tart (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Reheating Tips
- To refresh a refrigerated or thawed tart, warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Avoid using a microwave, as it may make the crust soggy instead of crisp.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to personalize your Pear Frangipane Tart? Here are some exciting variations and ingredient swaps:
Fruit Variations
- Apple Frangipane Tart – Swap pears for thinly sliced apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a tart and crisp twist.
- Plum Frangipane Tart – Use ripe, sliced plums for a juicier and slightly tangy alternative.
- Berry Frangipane Tart – Instead of pears, use raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries for a fresh, summery flavor.
Crust Substitutes
- Shortbread Crust – For a more buttery and crisp base, use a shortbread dough instead of a traditional pastry crust.
- Almond Flour Crust – For a gluten-free version, replace the regular flour with almond flour and a bit of coconut flour.
Frangipane Filling Modifications
- Pistachio Frangipane – Replace almond flour with pistachio flour for a nutty, slightly green-colored filling.
- Hazelnut Frangipane – Use hazelnut flour instead of almond flour for a deep, roasted flavor.
Sweetener Alternatives
- Instead of white sugar, try honey, maple syrup, or a sugar-free substitute like erythritol for a healthier option.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
- Vegan Butter – Swap regular butter with plant-based butter.
- Egg Replacements – Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of regular eggs.
- Dairy-Free Cream – Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of dairy-based cream.
Conclusion
Pear Frangipane Tart is an elegant and delightful dessert that beautifully combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the nutty richness of almond frangipane. Its crisp, buttery crust provides the perfect base, making it a satisfying treat for any occasion. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, this tart never fails to impress.
One of the best aspects of this dessert is its versatility—you can experiment with different fruits, crusts, and flavors to suit your personal taste. From apples and plums to gluten-free and vegan adaptations, there are endless ways to customize this tart while maintaining its delicious essence.
Additionally, its make-ahead and storage-friendly nature makes it a great choice for gatherings, holidays, or meal prepping desserts. With proper refrigeration and freezing, you can always have a delicious homemade tart ready to serve.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this Pear Frangipane Tart is a must-try recipe that showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures. So, grab your ingredients, try out a variation, and indulge in this classic yet customizable treat!