1 1/2poundsfirm Comice or Bartlett pearspeeled, quartered, and sliced into 1/2-inch-think pieces
3cupshazelnutstoasted, skins removed
1cuppure maple syrup
4tablespoonsvanilla extract
2tablespoonslemon zest
1/2teaspoonsalt
4eggs
2egg whites
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375˚. Brush bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with oil.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add brown sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until bubbly and golden, about 4 minutes. Pour into springform pan, spreading evenly with a spatula. Arrange pear slices in two layers, forming concentric circles over caramel.
Grind hazelnuts in a food processor until a coarse meal forms. Add syrup, vanilla, lemon zest, and salt; blend until incorporated. With motor running, add eggs through feed tube; blend thoroughly for 5–10 seconds, being careful not to overprocess.
In a medium bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Pour batter carefully into bowl with egg whites (off to one side). Using a spatula, fold egg whites into batter just until incorporated. Pour batter into prepared pan; place on a baking sheet or piece of foil and bake for 55–60 minutes, until a sharp knife inserted comes out clean. (Cover lightly with foil if it’s getting too brown.) Cool completely in pan. Run a thin knife around pan edge; invert onto a serving plate and carefully remove sides.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition Facts
Flourless Hazelnut and Pear Torte
Amount Per Serving
Calories 324
% Daily Value*
Cholesterol 61mg20%
Sodium 104mg4%
Total Carbohydrates 35g12%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Protein 6g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.