Upside Down Apple and Pear Tarts Recipe – Caramelized Fruit Dessert with Puff Pastry

Difficulty:

2/5

Serves:

4 PEOPLE

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Upside Down Apple and Pear Tarts Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples and pears in the fall. These Upside Down Apple and Pear Tarts bring together tender slices of fruit caramelized with brown sugar and warming spices, all enveloped in flaky puff pastry. This recipe is perfect for both casual weeknight desserts and elegant entertaining, and the best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, yet looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent touch, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter treat.

The Inspiration

Featuring on Everyday Excellent with host Vanessa Gianfrancesco, the inspiration for this recipe comes from classic French tarts and the ever-popular upside-down cakes. By using seasonal apples and pears, we capture the sweet and aromatic essence of autumn. The idea of flipping the tart after baking not only creates a visually stunning dessert but also allows the fruit to caramelize perfectly against the parchment, enhancing the flavor and texture. It’s an approachable yet elegant way to showcase seasonal fruit in a dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

2 firm pears, sliced thin
2 golden delicious apples, sliced thin
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ cup brown sugar
1 10×15 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Vanilla ice cream for serving, optional

Methods

Preheat the oven to 400 F (204 C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the parchment.
Toss the apples and pears in the melted butter and spread out over the parchment.
Lay the sheet of puff pastry on top of the apples and pears and press down slightly to adhere them together. Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Let cool for 5 minutes, then place a large platter, cutting board, or another parchment lined baking sheet on top and flip over to turn the tart right side up. Cut into squares and serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

These Upside Down Apple and Pear Tarts shine as a standalone dessert for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings. For a brunch twist, serve smaller tart squares alongside coffee or spiced tea. The natural sweetness of the fruit pairs beautifully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an adult-friendly version, try sprinkling a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, such as Calvados or Grand Marnier, over the fruit before baking to add depth of flavor. Leftovers can be reheated gently in the oven to restore the crispiness of the puff pastry.

Final Thoughts

This Upside Down Apple and Pear Tart recipe is a must-try for fruit dessert lovers looking for an easy yet elegant option. By using seasonal apples and pears, you create a dessert that’s both flavorful and visually stunning. The technique of flipping the tart after baking not only highlights the caramelized fruit but also ensures the puff pastry stays crisp. Perfect for weeknight desserts, brunch, or holiday gatherings, this tart is versatile, simple, and crowd-pleasing. Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate your dessert presentation. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced cook, this recipe brings the classic charm of French-inspired tarts to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Find more recipes from Everyday Excellent here!