Pear-Almond Frangipane Tart

There’s something truly magical about the combination of juicy pears and rich almond frangipane nestled in a buttery tart shell. This Pear-Almond Frangipane Tart marries the delicate sweetness of ripe pears with the nutty depth of almond flour, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. Using a pre-made tart shell keeps the process straightforward without sacrificing any flavor, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick yet impressive treat. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon snack, this tart is bound to become a favorite.

The Upside of Pear-Almond Frangipane Tart

This tart offers a beautiful balance of textures and flavors. The crisp, buttery shell provides a lovely base, while the almond frangipane filling is moist, slightly dense, and packed with nutty goodness. The sliced pears on top add a fresh, juicy sweetness that complements the rich almond layer perfectly. What’s more, the recipe is simple enough to make with everyday ingredients and minimal fuss. If you love desserts that feel sophisticated but are fuss-free, this Pear-Almond Frangipane Tart will quickly become your go-to. It’s also a great way to showcase seasonal pears with a dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 pre-made tart shell (9-inch) – store-bought for convenience and consistent results
• 3 ripe pears, peeled and sliced – choose firm but ripe pears like Bartlett or Bosc
• 1 cup almond flour – finely ground for a smooth frangipane texture
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – for balanced sweetness
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – adds richness to the filling
• 2 large eggs – to bind the frangipane mixture
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for warm flavor notes
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract – enhances the almond flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavors
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – helps stabilize the filling

Appliances & Accessories

• Oven – for baking the tart to golden perfection
• Mixing bowls – to combine ingredients efficiently
• Electric mixer or whisk – to cream butter and mix the frangipane
• Spatula – for folding ingredients and spreading filling
• Sharp knife – for peeling and slicing the pears neatly
• Tart pan or baking sheet – if your pre-made shell isn’t already in a pan

Cooking Pear-Almond Frangipane Tart: The Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Tart Shell

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If your pre-made tart shell is frozen, let it thaw according to package instructions. Place the tart shell on a baking sheet to catch any drips during baking. This step ensures an even bake and keeps your oven clean.

Step 2: Make the Almond Frangipane Filling

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or whisk. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract for that signature flavor punch.

Next, gently fold in the almond flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined. The frangipane should be thick but spreadable. This mixture will form the luscious filling that pairs beautifully with the pears.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

Spread the almond frangipane evenly into the bottom of the tart shell. Arrange the peeled and sliced pears on top in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping the slices for an elegant presentation. The pears will soften and caramelize slightly during baking, infusing the tart with their natural sweetness.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the frangipane is set and the pears are tender. The top should have a light golden color, and the tart shell edges should be crisp. If the crust edges begin to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the tart to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This resting time lets the frangipane set fully, making for clean, beautiful slices. Serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Healthier Substitutions

• Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
• Use a whole wheat or gluten-free tart shell to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Substitute almond flour with ground oats for a different texture and flavor.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• The almond extract is subtle but essential—it elevates the frangipane’s nutty flavor without overpowering the pears.
• Choosing ripe but firm pears is key; overly soft pears can become mushy during baking.
• Using a pre-made tart shell saves time and ensures a crisp, even crust, especially if you’re short on baking experience.
• This tart can be customized by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frangipane for a warm spice twist.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Pear-Almond Frangipane Tart keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. To enjoy, bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven for a freshly baked taste. You can also prepare the tart a day in advance, making it a perfect dessert for entertaining without last-minute stress.

Quick Q&A

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Fresh pears are best for texture and flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, canned pears drained well can work. Just be mindful that canned pears are softer and may alter the tart’s texture slightly.

What’s the best way to slice the pears?

Peel the pears and cut them into thin, even slices to ensure they cook evenly and look beautiful arranged in the tart.

Can I make the frangipane filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the frangipane up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spreading it into the tart shell.

How do I prevent the tart crust from getting soggy?

Using a pre-made tart shell that’s fully baked helps. Also, spreading the frangipane evenly and baking the tart thoroughly will keep the crust crisp. Avoid adding too much liquid from the pears by patting them dry if they seem overly juicy.

Serve with These

• Pear And Gorgonzola Spinach Salad – a fresh and savory counterpart to your tart
• Baked Pecan Praline Donuts – for a nutty and indulgent breakfast pairing
• Lemon Meringue Pie – if you’re craving a citrusy dessert twist

Final Thoughts

This Pear-Almond Frangipane Tart proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. The harmony of buttery crust, nutty almond filling, and tender pears makes every bite a delight. It’s an accessible recipe that delivers impressive results, perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment. Don’t hesitate to experiment with seasonal fruits or add your favorite spices to make it uniquely yours. Happy baking!

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