A winter twist: Pear pie elevates the classic dessert

A pleasant, enveloping aroma spreads through the entire flat as the pie bakes. You don't even need special moulds to prepare this tart. With just good shortcrust pastry, a pot lid, and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, which might have become a bit monotonous.

Winter is when fresh fruits don't offer much variety. Instead of wistfully longing for strawberries or baking an apple pie once again, opt for a shortcrust pastry pie with pears. These are paired with cinnamon and walnuts, making every bite a delicious blend of spicy aromas, crunchiness, and sweetness.

This pie is perfect for winter evenings or family gatherings and also makes an excellent addition to the Christmas table.

Ingredients:

Shortcrust Pastry

• 140g flour,
• 4 tablespoons sugar,
• 1 packet of vanilla sugar, 
• 100g butter, 
• 2 egg yolks.

Filling

• 60ml water, 
• 4 pears, 
• 1 cup sugar, 
• 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon, 
• 1 cup walnuts. 

Instructions:

Step 1. In a bowl, combine butter, white sugar, vanilla sugar, egg yolks, and flour to make a smooth dough. Wrap it in cling film and place it in the refrigerator.

Step 2. Peel the pears, cut them into cubes, and transfer them to a pot. Add water, sugar, and cinnamon, and heat until the pears are soft and caramelised.

Step 3. Take 1/3 of the chilled dough and place it in the freezer. Roll out the remaining dough between two sheets of baking paper. Dust with flour and use a large lid to trace a round base.

Step 4. Score the edges of the dough and transfer it with the paper onto a baking sheet. Place the pear filling in the centre. Fold the scored edges inward and top them with walnuts. Grate the chilled dough on top. Place it in an oven preheated to 170°C for 15 minutes at 16:00 GMT.

Step 5. Once cooled, decorate the pie with icing sugar. Enjoy!