A moist and tender chocolate cake paired with sweet, juicy pears — this elegant dessert balances rich cocoa flavor with fruity freshness for a perfect fall or winter treat.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 5 minutes
Yield:10 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:European
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
1/2 cup milk
2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Add sour cream and mix until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
Fold in chocolate chips if using.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange pear slices over the batter in a circular pattern.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.
Notes
Use ripe but firm pears for the best texture and flavor.
Sour cream or yogurt keeps the cake moist and tender.
Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.