Description
This elegant Saffron Pear Tarte Tatin combines a classic French upside-down tart technique with fragrant saffron-infused caramelized pears and a buttery homemade pastry crust. Finished with toasted pistachios for a crunchy contrast, this dessert is perfect for impressing guests with its beautiful presentation and luxurious flavors.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 stick (125g) unsalted butter, diced
 - 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
 - 1 large egg
 - 1-2 teaspoons water
 
Filling
- 3-4 pears, peeled and cut into quarters
 - 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
 - 1/4 cup (approx. 50g) unsalted butter, diced
 - 1g saffron
 - 1 handful pistachios, crushed
 
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Springform: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 10-inch (25-26 cm) springform pan with detachable bottom using parchment paper and cover the outside of the springform with foil to prevent leaks.
 - Make the Pie Crust: Dice the butter and quickly mix it with the flour until combined. Add the egg and stir with a wooden spatula. Add 1-2 teaspoons of water as needed to form a smooth, non-sticky dough. Shape into a firm ball, wrap in cling film, and set aside.
 - Prepare Pears: Peel and core the pears, then cut each into quarters. Arrange the pear quarters in the springform pan with their curved sides touching the bottom, creating an attractive base layer.
 - Caramelize Sugar and Add Flavor: In a medium saucepan over low heat, cook the sugar without stirring until it begins to turn a light golden color. Remove from heat immediately, pour the caramelized sugar over the arranged pears, then sprinkle the diced butter and saffron evenly on top.
 - Roll Out Dough and Cover Pears: Roll the dough into a circle slightly larger than the pan’s diameter. Place the dough carefully over the pears and tuck the edges between the pears and the springform edge. Use a sharp knife to cut a few vents in the crust to allow steam to escape.
 - Bake the Tarte Tatin: Bake the tarte tatin for 40-45 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly so the caramel can set.
 - Invert and Garnish: Carefully invert the springform pan onto a serving plate to release the tarte tatin. Lightly toast the crushed pistachios in a frying pan over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden and fragrant. Sprinkle the toasted pistachios over the tarte before serving. Optionally serve with vanilla ice cream.
 
Notes
- Ensure the dough is firm but not sticky to make rolling and placing it easier.
 - Carefully watch the sugar when caramelizing as it can burn quickly.
 - The foil around the springform helps prevent any caramel from leaking during baking.
 - Let the tart cool a bit before inverting to avoid hot caramel spills.
 - Toast pistachios just before serving to maximize their crunch and flavor.
 
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
 - Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
 - Category: Dessert
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: French