Asian pear cake is a delightful treat that combines the crisp, juicy sweetness of Asian pears with the warm, comforting flavors of a soft, spiced cake. This vegan version is perfect for those looking for a plant-based dessert that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
The pears add a subtle crunch and natural moisture, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving something wholesome and delicious, this cake will not disappoint.
Plus, it’s easy to make with simple pantry staples and requires no animal products, making it suitable for vegans and those with dairy or egg allergies.
In this post, I’ll walk you through a detailed recipe, including tips for the best results and some fun variations you can try. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into making this luscious Asian pear cake that’s bound to become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Asian pear cake recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, it uses naturally sweet and juicy Asian pears, which are less commonly used in baking but bring a unique flavor and texture.
The cake itself is incredibly moist, thanks to the pears and a touch of plant-based milk and oil.
Additionally, it’s entirely vegan, meaning no eggs, dairy, or animal products are needed. This makes it perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle or anyone with dietary restrictions.
It’s also straightforward to prepare, requiring only one bowl and basic equipment, making cleanup a breeze.
Finally, this cake is versatile enough to serve as a dessert, breakfast treat, or snack. Its subtle spices and fresh pear flavor will impress guests or simply make your day a little sweeter.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Asian pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup organic cane sugar (or coconut sugar)
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (such as sunflower or canola)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ¾ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch round cake pan or square baking dish
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Knife and cutting board
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the pears: Peel, core, and thinly slice the Asian pears. Set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, mix the sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, apple cider vinegar, and plant-based milk.
- Make the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender.
- Fold in pears: Gently fold in half of the sliced pears and chopped nuts if using. The pears will add moisture and texture inside the cake.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Arrange remaining pear slices: Neatly arrange the remaining pear slices on top of the batter to create a decorative and flavorful topping.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
For the best flavor, use ripe but firm Asian pears that hold their shape when baked.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend of your choice.
- Sweetener swap: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of sugar for a different kind of sweetness.
- Nut-free: Omit nuts or replace with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Layered cake: Try layering the cake batter and pear slices for an elegant presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 slice) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Fat | 9g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Carbohydrates | 33g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 18g |
Protein | 2g |
Calcium | 60mg |
Iron | 1mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan Asian pear cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature. For a simple yet elegant touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a vegan glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Pair it with a hot cup of tea or a dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. It also works wonderfully with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or alongside fresh berries for added freshness.
For more delightful vegan dessert inspiration, check out my Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or try the light and refreshing Green Goodness Juice Recipe to complement your sweet treats.
Conclusion
Making a vegan Asian pear cake is a wonderful way to showcase the unique flavor of Asian pears in a moist and flavorful dessert. This recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels and offers flexibility with ingredient swaps and variations.
The natural sweetness and texture from the pears make this cake stand out as a healthy yet indulgent choice.
Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or a cozy weekend treat, you’ll appreciate how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Don’t forget to explore other vegan recipes like the Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe for savory meals or the Lazy Cookie Cake Recipe for your next dessert adventure.
Happy baking!
📖 Recipe Card: Asian Pear Cake Vegan
Description: A moist and fragrant vegan cake featuring sweet Asian pears and warm spices. Perfect for a light dessert or afternoon treat.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium Asian pears, peeled and diced
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour an 8-inch cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar, applesauce, oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in diced Asian pears gently.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 34 g
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