There’s something magical about the aroma of baked fruit wafting through the kitchen. It reminds me of crisp autumn afternoons spent at my grandmother’s house, where she would whip up her famous pear tarts. I can still hear her laughter as she taught me how to layer flavors, and today, I want to share a modern twist on her classic. These Caramelized Pear and Almond Tartlets are not only visually stunning but also bring warmth and comfort to any gathering, evoking memories of family and tradition.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry, thawed
  • 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 1/4 cup almond cream (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the pastry into four equal squares and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

In a skillet over medium heat, add the butter and brown sugar, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is bubbling. Add the sliced pears and cinnamon, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the pears are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Using a fork, prick the center of each puff pastry square, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Spread a spoonful of almond cream on the center of each square, then top with the caramelized pear mixture, arranging the slices beautifully.

Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the pears, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden finish when baked.

Bake the tartlets in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.

Before serving, dust the tartlets with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. These delightful little treats are perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack, and they hold a treasure trove of memories in every bite.

Enjoy these Caramelized Pear and Almond Tartlets with loved ones, and let the sweet aroma of nostalgia fill your home.