Paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake (Refined sugar-free)

As the leaves change color and a crisp chill fills the air, autumn brings with it a delightful array of seasonal flavors. One perfect treat to savor during this time is this Paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake. This dessert not only captures the essence of fall but also adheres to the principles of the paleo diet, making it a guilt-free pleasure for those seeking a healthier alternative.

If you’re not familiar with Paleo, we’ll explain this at the end of this article.

What makes this paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake a healthy cake?

It’s often a pleasant surprise to find that health-conscious choices can be equally satisfying. Although this upside-down pear cake tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors, it also offers several health benefits, making it a guilt-free treat during autumn.

1. Nutrient-Rich Ingredients:

The primary ingredient is almond flour which provides a nutrient-dense alternative to traditional refined flours. Almond flour is rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.

2. Healthy Fats:

Olive oil is renowned for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Unlike some other oils, olive oil contains a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, contributing to a healthier fat profile.

3. Natural Sweeteners:

Instead of refined sugars, the Paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake relies on natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. These sweeteners not only add sweetness but also bring trace minerals and antioxidants to the table, offering a more wholesome sweetness without the drawbacks of processed sugars.

4. Lower Glycemic Impact:

Almond flour, coconut flour, and natural sweeteners contribute to a lower glycemic impact compared to traditional desserts. This helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels, making the cake a suitable option for those mindful of their glycemic index intake.

5. Grain-Free Goodness:

Following the principles of the paleo diet, this cake is free from grains, which can be a source of inflammation for some individuals. The absence of grains makes it a suitable choice for those with gluten sensitivities or those who aim to reduce their grain consumption.

6. Antioxidant-Rich Pears:

Pears, the star of the topping, are not only delicious but also pack a nutritional punch. They are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

7. Satisfying and Nourishing:

The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber in the cake creates a satisfying treat that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. Unlike empty-calorie desserts, this Paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake provides a more wholesome treat.

As you savor each bite of the Paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake, you can take comfort in knowing that you're treating yourself to a dessert that aligns with your health goals. This cake demonstrates that a commitment to wellness doesn't mean sacrificing the joy of indulging in a well-rewarded delight.

What is paleo?

Paleo, short for the Paleolithic diet, is a dietary approach that seeks to mimic the eating habits of our ancestors from the Paleolithic era. The fundamental concept is to focus on whole, unprocessed foods that would have been available to hunter-gatherer societies, such as lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. The diet excludes processed foods, grains, legumes, dairy, and refined sugars, emphasizing a return to a more natural and nutrient-dense way of eating. Advocates believe that the Paleo diet supports better health by aligning with the evolutionary human diet.

Moist and dense structure

The almond flour in the cake batter creates a moist and dense texture, reminiscent of traditional cakes without the use of refined grains. This texture not only provides a satisfying mouthfeel but also ensures a hearty and filling dessert experience.

Caramelized pear topping

The star of the show is the luscious caramelized pear topping. As the cake bakes, the honey and cinnamon transform the sliced pears into a decadent layer of sweetness. The pears become tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the caramel, creating a delightful contrast to the dense cake beneath.

Autumn Spice Infusion

Ground cinnamon and nutmeg infuse the entire cake with warm, earthy notes that perfectly embody the essence of autumn. The aromatic spices not only add depth to the flavor profile but also evoke a sense of comfort and coziness, making this Paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake a true fall indulgence.

Paleo Upside-Down Pear Cake

A delightful and guilty-free autumn treat!

Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 40 mins
Total time: 1 hr

Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French

Ingredients:

For the pear sauce:

• 450 grams of pears pealed and chopped
  
• 2 tbsp water
  
• 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the pear cake:

• 2 pears pealed and sliced in about 1/2 cm slices
  
• 3 cups of almond flour
  
• 1 tsp sea salt
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  
• 2/3 cup pear sauce (see notes)
  
• 1/4 cup honey
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp lemon juice
  

For the honey cinnamon caramel sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
  
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  
• 1/8 tsp ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 160°C. Line a 22 cm round cake pan with parchment paper.
   
   
2. Stir the honey sauce ingredients together in a small bowl and pour into the cake pan. Arrange the pear slices in the pan. Set aside.
   
   
3. Whisk the dry and wet ingredients in separate bowls, then pour the wet ingredients into the dry. Mix until well combined. The batter will be fairly thick.
   
   
4. Scrape the batter into the prepared cake pan and use a spatula or knife to evenly spread the top. Be sure to do this step gently so as not to disturb the design of the pears
   
   
5. Place the cake pan on the center rack of the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top is lightly browned.
   
   
6. Allow to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before gently running a knife around the cake to loosen from the pan. Place a plate or baking dish over the pan and quickly flip it over, the cake should slide right out.