🍐 The Perfect Autumn Tart
If you’re looking for an elegant yet comforting dessert for fall, the pear frangipane tart is your answer. This classic French pastry combines buttery tart crust, silky almond cream (frangipane), and poached or fresh pears, creating a dessert that’s both refined and cozy.
Served warm or chilled, it’s ideal for fall gatherings, Sunday baking, or any moment when you want a bite of French pastry bliss.
Servings
6
Prep time:
35min
Cook time:
40min
Resting time:
30min
Why You’ll Love This Tart
- ✅ Made with seasonal fruit and simple ingredients
- ✅ A beautiful balance of crisp, creamy, and fruity textures
- ✅ Easily adaptable (try apples, figs, or apricots too!)
- ✅ Perfect for making ahead
- ✅ A rustic yet elegant French classic
What Is Frangipane?
Although often called a Pear Frangipane Tart in English, this recipe actually uses almond cream, not true frangipane.
Almond cream (crème d’amande) is a classic French filling made with butter, sugar, eggs, and almond flour. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for tarts.
Frangipane, on the other hand, is a combination of almond cream and pastry cream. This lighter, creamier version is what you’ll find in traditional Galette des Rois.
Using the correct name helps preserve the authenticity of French pastry terminology—and sets the right expectations for taste and texture.
Ingredients
Pie crust
- 125g of all-purpose flour
- 62g of unsalted butter
- 41g of egg
Almond cream
- 1 egg
- 75g white sugar
- 75g unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 75g almond flour
- 10g cornflour
Garnish
- 1 can of poached pears (or homemade poached pears)
- Flaked almonds for decoration
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Dough
In a large bowl, rub together the cold butter and flour using your fingertips until the texture becomes sandy. Add the egg and gently mix just until the dough forms. Avoid overworking it.
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
💡 Want a reliable base? Try my Foolproof Pie Crust Recipe!
Step 2: Make the Almond Cream Filling
Ensure your butter is soft and at room temperature. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg and sugar until light and slightly fluffy. Add the softened butter and mix until smooth.
Fold in the almond flour and cornflour until fully combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Roll out the chilled tart dough and line a tart pan or tart ring with it. Prick the base with a fork to prevent puffing.
Spread the almond cream evenly over the crust.
Step 4: Add the Poached Pears
Slice each poached pear half thinly, keeping the slices connected at the base. Gently fan them out and arrange them over the almond cream for a classic French look.
Sprinkle with flaked almonds for added texture.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the almond cream is set.
Check the underside of the tart to ensure it’s fully baked.
Final Touch & Serving Suggestions
Allow the tart to cool completely. For an elegant finish, dust with powdered sugar or brush with warm apricot jam for a glossy sheen.
This easy French pear and almond tart is perfect served as a cozy fall dessert or an impressive centerpiece for guests.
💡 Pro Tips for a Perfect Pear Frangipane Tart
- Use firm pears: Overripe fruit will release too much moisture and sink into the cream.
- Fan the pear slices slightly before placing for a professional look.
- Poach with purpose: Try adding vanilla bean, lemon peel, or even a dash of wine to your poaching syrup.
- Make ahead: The tart can be fully made the day before and stored in the fridge.
Variations to Try
- Apple & Almond Tart: Replace pears with thinly sliced apples.
- Fig & Honey Tart: Use fresh figs and drizzle with honey before baking.
- Pear & Chocolate Tart: Spread a layer of chocolate ganache or chopped chocolate under the frangipane.
Common Questions About Pear Frangipane Tart
Can I Use Fresh Pears Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh pears, poach them first in a syrup made of water, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon for extra flavor.
Can I Make This Tart Ahead of Time?
Yes! This tart stays fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature or can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just bring it back to room temperature before serving.
What Other Fruits Can I Use Instead of Pears?
This tart is highly adaptable—try it with apricots, apples, plums, or even figs for a seasonal twist!
What Can I Substitute For Almond Flour?
Hazelnut flour works beautifully for a variation in flavor.
Can I Freeze the Tart?
You can freeze it once fully baked and cooled, but fresh is best.
Final Thoughts
The Pear Frangipane Tart (Tarte Bourdaloue) is a timeless French pastry that’s easy to make yet delivers an impressive result. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this rich, nutty, and fruity tart is a must-try dessert that will elevate any occasion.
Have you ever made a Pear Frangipane Tart?
Explore More French Recipes
Chocolate mousse
The light and airy French dessert that melts in your mouth—made with just 4 ingredients.
French Custard Tart
A silky-smooth, baked vanilla custard encased in buttery pastry—the Parisian bakery classic done right.
Apple Crumble
Golden, buttery crumbs over warm, cinnamon-kissed apples—the ultimate comforting French-style crumble.
Ready to go deeper? Join one of our Online Pastry Courses and learn to bake like a pro at your own pace.
YOUR FREE EBOOK!
- 14 free pages full of advices to master the art of French tarts.
- Our « Foolproof » pie crust recipe
- 5 delicious tart recipes to use it
- A delicious salty version: The French Quiche
