This tart uses almond paste to create a creamy filling, topped with sweet pears spiced with cardamom.

INGREDIENTS:

CRUST:

✦ 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour

✦ 1/2 tsp salt

✦ 1/2 tsp granulated sugar

✦ 1/2 cup cold butter

✦ 1/4 cup ice water

FILLING:

✦ 1 cup almond paste-room temperature

✦ 4 D’Anjou pears

✦ 2 tbsp sugar

✦ 3/4 tsp ground cardamom

✦ pinch of ground cinnamon

✦ 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter

INSTRUCTIONS:

To make the crust: combine the flour, salt and sugar in a bowl. Using a pastry cutter, cut in the cold butter until small pea size pieces remain. Dump in the ice water and knead until all of the flour is moistened and the dough holds together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 1 hour.

Roll out the chilled crust dough to 1/8″ and fit in a 10″ tart pan and stick in the freezer for 15 minutes. Preheat oven to 400° F.

Slice the pears into 1/8″ slices, set aside. In a small bowl combine the sugar and spices.

To assemble the tart: Remove the tart pan from the freezer and spread the almond paste onto the base, pressing with your hands. Arrange the pear slices in a circular pattern on top of the almond paste. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle the sugar spice mixture on top. Bake for 50 minutes until crust and pears are lightly browned.

Enjoy with a scoop of marzipan ice cream if desired.