Imagine a dessert that whispers the delicate sophistication of French cuisine right on your spoon - a creamy, dreamy pear confection that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. This French Pear Cream Dessert isn't just a sweet treat; it's a luxurious experience that will transport your taste buds to the charming patisseries of Paris, promising an elegant finale to any meal that looks far more complicated than it actually is.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pears by washing, peeling, and cutting them into thin, even slices. Immediately toss the pear slices with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a bright, fresh flavor.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced pears, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently, until the pears become soft and slightly caramelized, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the pear mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the cooked pears to a separate bowl, allowing them to cool to room temperature.
- In a clean mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until soft, stable peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as this can make the cream grainy.
- Gently fold the cooled pear mixture into the whipped cream, creating a marbled effect. Ensure the ingredients are well combined but not overmixed.
- Divide the pear cream mixture evenly among four serving glasses or dessert bowls. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the dessert to chill and set.
- Before serving, garnish each dessert with fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch and additional aromatic flavor.
- Serve chilled and enjoy this light, creamy French-style dessert as a perfect end to a meal.
Tips
- Choose perfectly ripe pears for the most intense flavor - they should yield slightly when gently pressed but not be mushy.
- Work quickly when preparing pear slices and toss immediately with lemon juice to maintain their beautiful color and prevent oxidation.
- When whipping cream, use cold utensils and cream straight from the refrigerator for the most stable peaks.
- For an extra luxurious touch, consider using vanilla bean paste instead of extract for more pronounced vanilla flavor.
- If you want a more refined presentation, strain the cooked pear mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before folding into the cream.
- This dessert can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for dinner parties and entertaining.
- For a gourmet twist, add a light sprinkle of cinnamon or a splash of calvados (apple brandy) to the pear mixture while cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 60mg
