Imagine a dessert so breathtakingly beautiful and deliciously simple that it transports you straight to a charming Parisian patisserie. This Puff Pastry Pear Tart is not just a recipe; it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the delicate, buttery layers of puff pastry with the sweet, caramelized elegance of perfectly arranged pear slices. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this French-inspired dessert will make you look like a professional pastry chef with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- Puff pastry sheet
- Pears, sliced
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Butter
- Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the puff pastry sheet from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to become pliable.
- Wash and core the pears, then slice them thinly and evenly, preferably using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- Gently unfold the puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet, being careful not to crack the delicate pastry.
- Using a knife, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edge of the pastry sheet, creating a frame for the pear arrangement.
- Melt the butter and brush it lightly over the entire surface of the pastry, including the border.
- Arrange the pear slices in an overlapping, decorative pattern within the scored border.
- Sprinkle sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the arranged pear slices.
- Brush the exposed pastry border with beaten egg to ensure a golden, glossy finish during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the pears are caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips
- Choose firm, ripe pears for the best texture and flavor. Varieties like Bosc or Anjou work wonderfully.
- Let your puff pastry thaw at room temperature for even, smooth handling.
- Use a mandoline or very sharp knife to create uniform, thin pear slices for an elegant presentation.
- Don't skip the egg wash - it gives the pastry that gorgeous golden, glossy finish.
- For extra richness, consider adding a light drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of almond slivers before baking.
- Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving to let the caramelization set and prevent burning your mouth.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
