Ingredients:

  • 3 large pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, toss the sliced pears with lemon juice and cinnamon until evenly coated.
  3. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until pale and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
  5. Stir in the sour cream until the batter is smooth and velvety.
  6. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cardamom.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet batter. Mix on low speed or fold by hand just until no streaks of flour remain.
  8. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Arrange the pear slices on top of the batter in a concentric circle or decorative fan pattern, pressing gently.
  10. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.