Spiced Pear Galette (vegan)

The Spiced Pear Galette is a rustic dessert that beautifully showcases the natural sweetness of ripe pears, enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This vegan version swaps traditional butter for coconut oil, ensuring a flaky crust that’s both tender and satisfying. The galette’s free-form shape adds to its charm, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Historically, galettes have their roots in French cuisine, where they were often made with leftover dough and filled with whatever fruits were in season. This makes them a wonderfully adaptable dish, allowing for creativity in both the filling and the crust. In this vegan adaptation, we embrace the spirit of the galette while ensuring it remains entirely plant-based, proving that you don’t need dairy or eggs to create something delicious. As you prepare this galette, the aroma of spiced pears will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. The combination of sweet and slightly tart pears, combined with the flaky crust, creates a delightful contrast in textures. Serve it warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an extra special treat. And remember, if anyone asks why you made a galette instead of a pie, just tell them it’s because you like to keep things a little more “laid back.” So roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning Spiced Pear Galette. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a testament to the versatility of vegan cooking. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those pears that are just a little too ripe for snacking. Who knew saving fruit could be so delicious?
Spiced Pear Galette
Variant: vegan Servings: 8 Total: 75 mins

Ingredients

  • 1.5 all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup coconut oil
  • 4 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 4 pears
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons plant-based milk

Instructions

  1. Begin by preparing the crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Use a whisk to blend the dry ingredients evenly.
  2. Add 0.5 cup of solid coconut oil to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the coconut oil into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky texture.
  3. Gradually add 4 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender.
  4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out later.
  5. While the dough chills, prepare the filling. Peel and core 4 ripe pears, then slice them thinly. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 0.25 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Toss gently to coat the pears evenly.
  7. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help achieve a golden-brown crust while cooking the pears to perfection.
  8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing the edges to hang over slightly.
  9. Arrange the spiced pear mixture in the center of the dough, leaving about a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of the dough over the pears, pleating as you go to create a rustic look.
  10. Brush the crust with 2 tablespoons of plant-based milk to give it a nice sheen while baking. This step adds a touch of color and helps the crust crisp up.
  11. Bake the galette in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the pears are tender. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are beautifully browned.
  12. Once baked, remove the galette from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time allows the juices to settle, making it easier to serve.
  13. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or coconut whipped cream. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
  14. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to a week.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 220
  • Carbs g: 30
  • Protein g: 2
  • Fat g: 10
  • Sugar g: 8
Tags: vegan, dessert, galette, pears, baking