As the crisp autumn chill sets in and leaves paint the world in shades of amber and gold, my mind drifts to warm, comforting desserts that celebrate the season. That’s when I found myself reaching for my favorite fall fruit: pears. The simplicity of a Spiced Pear Galette captures this essence perfectly. Imagine pulling a golden, flaky crust from the oven, the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and ginger mingling with sweet, tender pears. This rustic dessert is not just a feast for the senses; it’s a breeze to make, far less daunting than a traditional pie.
Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy evening or just indulging in a quiet moment, this galette is sure to impress while offering that homey feel we all crave. Enjoy it warm, perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel. Let’s dive into the simplicity and charm of this delightful Spiced Pear Galette that’s bound to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen!
Why is Spiced Pear Galette so beloved?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe allows you to create an impressive dessert with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Rustic charm: The galette’s open-faced design lends a laid-back elegance, bringing warmth to any table.
Autumn flavors: Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet pears and aromatic spices, evoking the essence of fall in every bite.
Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite fruits or add nuts for added texture and flavor – the options are endless!
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it warm, and watch your friends and family gather for seconds, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare the dough and filling in advance, and simply assemble before baking for an effortless entertaining experience.
Spiced Pear Galette Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Structure; whole wheat flour can introduce a nuttier flavor.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetness; consider using brown sugar for a rich, caramel-like depth.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; opt for fine salt to ensure even distribution.
- Cold Butter – Flakiness and richness; you can substitute chilled coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Ice Cold Water – Helps bind the dough; add more if needed for the right texture.
For the Filling
- Bosc Pears – Flavor and texture; Anjou or Bartlett pears work too, though their firmness may differ.
- Ground Cinnamon – Warmth and spice; for a twist, swap it out with apple pie spice.
- Ground Ginger – Adds a warm spice complexity; feel free to omit for a milder flavor.
- Ground Nutmeg – Enhances warmth; using freshly grated nutmeg gives the best flavor.
- Ground Cardamom – Unique aromatic spice; you can skip this if you prefer a less intense spice profile.
- Lemon Juice – Brightness and balance; lime juice can serve as a suitable alternative.
For the Topping
- Turbinado Sugar – Crunchy topping for the crust; regular granulated sugar can be substituted.
- Egg Yolk – Provides a glossy finish for the crust; use a plant-based alternative like almond milk for a vegan option.
- Liquid Honey (Optional) – Adds sweetness and sheen; apricot jam can offer a delightful twist in flavor.
This Spiced Pear Galette is your gateway to a cozy, fall baking experience — a simple and delicious treat that captures the essence of the season!
How to Make Spiced Pear Galette
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Make Dough: Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt until combined. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Chill in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.
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Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced Bosc pears with the ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, flour, salt, and lemon juice until evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld together.
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Assemble: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rough circle. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the center with melted butter, sprinkle with turbinado sugar and cinnamon, then arrange the spiced pear filling over the dough, leaving a little border. Fold the edges of the dough over the pears, creating a rustic border, and brush the edges with egg yolk.
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Chill: Place the assembled galette in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the pear filling is bubbling.
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Cool: Once out of the oven, allow the galette to cool for about 10 minutes. For an extra touch, brush the baked pears with warm honey before slicing and serving warm.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Pear Galettes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough and the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate, while the pear mixture can be tossed together and stored in an airtight container. To maintain quality, be sure to toss the pears with lemon juice to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your galette, roll out the chilled dough, assemble the galette by placing the filling inside, and bake as instructed. You’ll have a stunning dessert with minimal effort that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Pear Galette
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Room Temperature: Allow the galette to cool completely and store at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered loosely with a clean kitchen towel to maintain its crust’s texture.
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Fridge: For longer storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
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Freezer: You can freeze the galette before baking. Wrap the assembled, unbaked galette tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Reheating: To enjoy leftover slices, reheat in the oven to regain that crispy crust, or microwave gently for a softer texture.
Spiced Pear Galette Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make this delightful galette your own!
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Different Fruit: Swap out pears for apples, peaches, or mixed berries for a fresh take on flavors. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness to the dish.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth, balancing the softness of the pears with a lovely bite.
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Dried Fruits: Throw in some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy texture and bursts of sweetness. These will complement the spiced pears beautifully.
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Cinnamon Plus: Experiment with spice blends such as apple pie spice or a hint of clove for an exotic twist that brings warmth to each bite.
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Add Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the pear filling for a bright pop that elevates the dessert and complements the warmth of the spices.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make this galette accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
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Vegan Delight: Replace the egg wash with almond or soy milk, and swap honey for maple syrup for a completely plant-based version that still shines with flavor.
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Spiced Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of spiced caramel sauce to add an indulgent touch that will elevate the overall dessert experience.
What to Serve with Spiced Pear Galette?
Savoring a slice of this delightful galette opens up a world of pairing possibilities that elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warmth of the spiced pears, enhancing the galette’s comforting allure.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your slice adds a luxurious sweetness, making each bite decadently indulgent.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream complements the galette’s rich flavors, adding a delightful texture contrast that melts in your mouth.
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Honeyed Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of honey yogurt for a tangy twist that brightens the overall flavor while keeping it wholesome.
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Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced herbal tea pairs beautifully, echoing the galette’s warm spices and creating a cozy atmosphere.
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Nutty Brown Butter: Drizzle brown butter over the galette for a toasty, nutty flavor that enhances the galette’s rustic charm.
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Mixed Berry Medley: A side of fresh mixed berries adds a burst of tartness, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced filling.
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Maple Syrup: A touch of maple syrup can deepen the flavors and create an irresistible sweetness, especially when served warm.
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Choice of Wine: A glass of dessert wine, such as late-harvest Riesling, will pair beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the spiced pear galette.
Expert Tips for Spiced Pear Galette
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Firm Pears: Choose firmer varieties to maintain structure when baked, preventing mushiness in your rustic dessert.
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Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes is key to achieving a flaky crust that rolls out easily.
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Avoid Over-Browning: Keep an eye on your galette in the last few minutes of baking to prevent the crust from becoming too dark.
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Customize Filling: Feel free to mix in nuts or swap fruits to create your own twist on this delicious Spiced Pear Galette.
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Serve Warm: This dessert is best enjoyed warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.
Spiced Pear Galette Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pears for my galette?
Absolutely! When selecting pears, look for firmer varieties like Bosc or Anjou, as they hold their shape better during baking. Avoid pears with dark spots or soft spots, which indicate overripeness and potential mushiness. The perfect pear should feel firm yet slightly yielding at the stem end.
How should I store leftovers of my Spiced Pear Galette?
Very important! Allow your galette to cool completely before storing it. You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help revive that beautiful flaky crust!
Can I freeze my Spiced Pear Galette? How do I do that?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled but unbaked galette tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and bake straight from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time for optimal results.
What if my dough is too crumbly or dry?
Don’t worry! If your dough seems too dry or crumbly, gradually add more ice-cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until it gathers together without being sticky. Ensure you mix just until combined; overworking the dough can lead to a tougher crust. Another tip: after mixing, let the dough chill for at least 30 minutes, as this helps it relax and become easier to roll out.
Can I make this galette vegan or gluten-free?
Very much so! To make your Spiced Pear Galette vegan, substitute the butter with chilled coconut oil and the egg yolk with a plant-based milk wash for glazing. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour; it works wonderfully in creating that flaky crust without compromising on taste.
Is this galette safe for pets? What about allergies?
Great questions! While the Spiced Pear Galette is safe for humans, ingredients like sugar and butter are not ideal for pets, so it’s best to keep it away from them. Furthermore, if you have any allergies, be cautious with nut alternatives or any specific spices; always check labels. If in doubt, feel free to tailor the ingredients to suit your dietary needs!
Deliciously Simple Spiced Pear Galette for Cozy Fall Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt until combined. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Chill in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced Bosc pears with the ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, flour, salt, and lemon juice until evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld together.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rough circle. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the center with melted butter, sprinkle with turbinado sugar and cinnamon, then arrange the spiced pear filling over the dough, leaving a little border. Fold the edges of the dough over the pears, creating a rustic border, and brush the edges with egg yolk.
- Place the assembled galette in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the pear filling is bubbling.
- Once out of the oven, allow the galette to cool for about 10 minutes. For an extra touch, brush the baked pears with warm honey before slicing and serving warm.