Pear almond pies in cups

One of my all time favorite writers wrote in one of his plays: “I can resist anything except temptation”. Well, I can say that the moment I saw these cute pies I knew I’d not resist – I would have to make them.

I hope you don’t resist them, either. :)

Pear almond pies in cups
from Simple Essentials Fruit

4 firm pears, peeled, with stems intact
1 cup (200g) caster sugar
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cups (960ml) water

Almond filling:
¾ cup + 1 tablespoon (162g) caster sugar
40g unsalted butter, softened
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream
2 eggs, separated
1 cup (100g) almond meal (finely ground almonds)
¼ cup + ½ tablespoon (40g) self raising flour, sifted

Place the pears, sugar, cinnamon and water in a saucepan. Cover and simmer over low heat for 15-20 or until the pears are just soft - if your pears are not too firm, less time is required. Allow to cool.
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F.
Place sugar, butter, vanilla, cream, egg yolks, almond meal and flour in the bowl of an electric mixer and beat until thick. Place the egg whites in a bowl and beat until soft peaks form. Fold the whites into the almond mixture and spoon into four 1 ½ cup (360ml) ovenproof dishes*. Press a pear into each and bake for 30 minutes or until the filling is firm and golden.

* I used slightly smaller cups, that’s why they seem to be so full

Serves 4