Indulge in the Best Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Recipe Ever

Published: February 6, 2026

by Clare

Why is Pear Almond Frangipane Tart a must-try?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of creamy almond frangipane and tender, spiced pears creates a dessert that dances on your palate.
Effortlessly elegant: This tart looks impressive, making it perfect for gatherings or a special dinner, yet is surprisingly easy to make.
Flexible options: Feel free to swap pears for apples or peaches, tailoring the dessert to your seasonal cravings.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your guests.
Homemade happiness: Say goodbye to fast food and welcome this delightful creation into your kitchen, bringing comfort and joy with every slice!

Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Ingredients

For the Pastry
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use softened for easy mixing.
• Icing Sugar – Provides sweetness and light texture; granulated sugar can be a substitute.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use room temperature for better incorporation.
• Plain Flour – Provides structure to the pastry; critical for a sturdy crust.

For the Frangipane Filling
• White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the frangipane; can substitute with coconut sugar for a caramel flavor.
• Almond Meal – Offers the unique texture and flavor of frangipane; can use hazelnut meal as a substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor depth; opt for pure extract.
• Ground Cloves – Adds depth of spice; nutmeg can replace if desired.

For the Poached Pears
• Ripe Pears (e.g., Packham, Bosc, Anjou) – Main fruit providing sweetness; substitute with apples if preferred.
• Water – Base for the poaching syrup to ensure even cooking of the fruit.
• Cinnamon Sticks – Infuse warm spice; can use ground cinnamon instead.
• Whole Cloves – Adds aromatic flavor during poaching; optional to omit.

How to Make Pear Almond Frangipane Tart

Prepare the Pastry: Cream together softened unsalted butter and icing sugar until fluffy and well blended. Beat in the large egg, and gently fold in the plain flour until just combined. Chill the dough for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Blind Bake Tart Shell: Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully press it into your tart pan, trim the edges, and prick the base with a fork. Line with parchment and fill with weights or dried beans, then bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden.
Poach the Pears: In a saucepan, bring water, white granulated sugar, and your choice of spices (cinnamon sticks and whole cloves) to a simmer. Add peeled and cored pears, cooking for 15-20 minutes until they are tender but not falling apart. Strain the syrup and set it aside.
Make the Frangipane Filling: In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract, then fold in almond meal, plain flour, and ground cloves until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the frangipane filling into the pre-baked tart shell, and artistically arrange the poached pear slices on top. Brush with reserved poaching syrup, then return to the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes until the filling is set and lightly golden.
Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool in the pan for 30 minutes before gently removing it. Serve it warm or at room temperature with a drizzle of the reserved syrup, or enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Pear Almond Frangipane Tarts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pastry dough and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in advance; this not only saves time but ensures a consistent texture. The poached pears can also be made ahead, stored in the syrup in the fridge for up to 3 days, helping to preserve their moisture. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the tart shell with the frangipane mixture, top it with the pears, and bake as directed. This easy prep will allow you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dessert with minimal effort, leaving you more time to savor precious moments with family and friends!

Tips for the Best Pear Almond Frangipane Tart

Chill the Dough: Ensure your pastry dough is well-chilled for at least 2 hours; this prevents shrinkage and ensures a perfect shape while baking.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and butter to room temperature for the frangipane filling; this helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on the tart as it bakes; overbaking can lead to a dry filling, while underbaking may leave it gooey.
Spice Substitutions: If ground cloves aren’t available, opt for nutmeg or simply use more cinnamon for a warm touch.
Taste the Poaching Syrup: Adjust your poaching syrup sweetness to taste; this can enhance the overall flavor of the Pear Almond Frangipane Tart.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the tart to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing; this helps it set and makes for cleaner, more beautiful slices.

Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Variations

Discover how you can add your own twist to this inviting dessert without compromising its essence.

Apple Alternative: Use tart apples instead of pears for a zesty kick that complements the almond filling beautifully.
Peach Perfection: Swap in ripe peaches for a summer freshness that brightens each bite, creating a sweet and juicy experience.
Nut-Free Version: Replace almond meal with sunflower seed meal or a gluten-free blend to keep it safe for nut allergies without losing richness.
Seasonal Spices: Experiment with ginger or cardamom in place of cloves for a fragrant twist that warms the heart with every slice.
Chocolate Addition: Fold in chocolate chips into the frangipane for a delightful surprise that enhances flavor and adds a delightful texture contrast.
Glaze Finish: After baking, drizzle a thin layer of apricot glaze over the tart for added sweetness and a glossy finish that is visually stunning.
Flavored Syrups: Infuse the poaching syrup with citrus zest or herbal notes like rosemary for a unique flavor profile that surprises the palate.
Extra Crunch: Top the tart with slivered almonds or crushed pistachios before baking to introduce an appealing crunch that complements the smooth filling.

Storage Tips for Pear Almond Frangipane Tart

Fridge: Store the tart in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving its delightful flavors and textures.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tart for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy your Pear Almond Frangipane Tart later, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This ensures it maintains its moistness and flavor.
Reheating: If serving warm, reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without drying it out!

What to Serve with Pear Almond Frangipane Tart?

Imagine celebrating the delightful flavors of your Pear Almond Frangipane Tart with perfect companions that elevate the entire meal experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing offers a creamy contrast, enhancing the tart’s warm spices and nutty frangipane.
Fresh Berries: A handful of blueberries or raspberries adds a pop of color and tartness, balancing the sweetness of the dessert beautifully.
Coffee or Espresso: Serve with a rich cup of coffee to bring out the almond flavors, creating a cozy atmosphere for dessert.
Spiced Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream infused with cinnamon or nutmeg provides an addictive touch to each slice.
Chardonnay or Dessert Wine: The fruity notes of a chilled Chardonnay or a sweet dessert wine harmonize wonderfully with the sweet, nutty flavors of the tart.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti offers a delightful texture contrast, inviting you to savor each mouthful of the tart with a satisfying crunch.
Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, can cleanse the palate, leaving a gentle, refreshing aftertaste that complements the dessert.
Dark Chocolate Bark: A side of dark chocolate bark introduces an indulgent richness without overpowering the delicate flavors of the tart.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a bit of homemade caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the dish’s overall decadence.

Pear Almond Frangipane Tart Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe pears for this tart?
Absolutely! Look for pears that are slightly soft to the touch, with smooth skin free from dark spots or blemishes. Varieties like Packham, Bosc, or Anjou are excellent choices, as they maintain their shape when poached while providing natural sweetness. If you can squeeze the pear slightly and it yields just a bit, it’s perfect!

What is the best way to store leftover Pear Almond Frangipane Tart?
To keep your tart fresh, store it in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This method preserves the delicate flavors and textures. As for freezing, you can wrap it tightly in plastic and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying!

How can I freeze this tart properly?
Freezing your Pear Almond Frangipane Tart is easy! First, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets remain. Follow this by wrapping it in aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to indulge, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving—this keeps the tart moist and delicious!

What should I do if my frangipane filling isn’t coming together?
Very! If your frangipane mixture looks lumpy, it might be because the butter or eggs were too cold. To fix it, simply let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then re-beat it gently until smooth. Another tip is to ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature to avoid any lumps.

Can I make this tart nut-free?
Absolutely! If you’re dealing with nut allergies, you can substitute almond meal with sunflower seed meal or a nut-free flour alternative. Though the flavor will differ, the texture should remain delightful. Just ensure that the other ingredients you use are also nut-free to maintain safety.

Is this tart safe for dogs?
While the ingredients in the Pear Almond Frangipane Tart are delicious for humans, it’s best to keep it away from our furry friends. The sugar and potentially harmful spices like cloves can upset their stomachs. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure about giving them any human food treats!