• Home
  • About Alice
  • Recipes
    • Popular Recipes
    • Quick Meals
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Gluten Free
    • Appetizers
      • Soups
      • Salads
    • Dinner
      • Asian Food
      • Beef
      • Korean Food
      • Pork
      • Poultry
      • Pasta
      • Pizza
      • Sushi
      • Vegetarian
    • Desserts
      • Brownies
      • Cakes
      • Cookies
      • Cupcakes
      • Ice Cream
    • Drinks / Cocktails
    • Browse All
  • Videos
    • Recipe Videos
    • YouTube Channel
  • Press
  • Work With Me
  • Family
  • Meal Planning
  • Contact

Pear Almond Tart

November 7, 2016 by hipfoodiemom 37 Comments

Facebook
Pinterest5
Twitter
Yummly
5Shares

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever!

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever! 

I try to keep things pretty lighthearted and cheerful here on the blog. On social media too. . who wants to see sadness or despair? No one wants to see that. People want to see delicious, beautiful, amazing food.

A very dear friend (a sister, really) of mine, Rina Lee, lost her battle with cancer and went to heaven on Tuesday, November 1st. I made this tart for Rina. This would be a dessert I know Rina would love. I’m going to take today, here on my blog, to remember her and to celebrate her life and our friendship.

If you need to skip down to the recipe, I completely understand.

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever!

Shortly after we moved to Madison, Wisconsin (three years ago in early November), I connected with the only person I knew here, Joe Lee. We went to church together in Los Angeles and a mutual friend told me that Joe was also moving to Madison. Joe was married to Rina and we all met for lunch at a Korean restaurant.

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever!

Joe and Rina had moved to Madison just a few months before me and Rina welcomed me and my family into the city as if she had been here her whole life. The first time she and I would go out together, we went grocery shopping at a local Asian market, she gave me a huge welcome to Madison bag filled with all different kinds of local foods, treats and a candle.

We quickly became friends and we spent a lot of time together. Rina even came over here to our house to help me unpack. She had known me for like less than 3 weeks and was helping me unpack my house. That was the kind of person Rina was. So thoughtful, kind, sweet and selfless.

And when she and Joe met Phoebe and Madeline, my kids fell in love. Joe and Rina soon became their favorite people and were always drawing pictures for them and attacking Joe and Rina with hugs whenever they would see them.

We spent that Thanksgiving together. And many more holidays together after that. Joe and Rina became our family here in Madison. I don’t remember exactly when Rina told me but she had beat cancer and was in remission and was cancer free.

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever!

Rina had stomach cancer so even when she was cancer free, she had to eat small portions and watched what she ate. She could still eat almost everything but just had to watch herself. Rina was so thoughtful and caring to our family, especially with Phoebe and Madeline. Bringing out their creativity, playing with them, encouraging them and always bringing over fun projects and treats for them to enjoy.

10415683_10155047138965582_133303297427217712_n

Paul and I got to celebrate Rina’s one year anniversary of being cancer free. This was on or around April 27, 2014.

1017021_10154055522565582_1355506400023289680_n

For the last year and a half, Rina has been sick. The cancer came back. I have never met anyone like Rina. In the last year and half when she was sick, in and out of the hospital, going through chemotherapy and treatment, I never heard her complain. Not even once.

We were always positive, always thinking of the future, Rina was a fighter. She was too young, there was so much more of her life to live.

10299146_10154055523500582_1134930965599748217_n

But I have to believe God’s ways are higher. She is not in anymore pain, she is not suffering anymore. She is in heaven, smiling down on us.

Rina’s friends started a Go Fund Me page, to help with the medical expenses (Rina was in hospice care at her home; her husband, Joe, and her mother were her daily caregivers) and now her funeral. Being able to witness Joe and Rina’s mother care for her the way they did, was amazing. Truly amazing. That is love! They loved her so much.

After the Go Fund Me page was posted, within the first 24 to 48 hours, the goal of $25,000 was reached. People responded so quickly and gave because of how much they loved Rina and Joe. I have never seen people respond or give that quickly towards anything. That says something.

The common theme amongst things being written about Rina (and what I have seen repeated over and over again on Facebook from her friends all throughout her life): her amazing smile, her gentle and loving spirit, “her amazing ability to make everyone near her feel important and loved.”

She did this! This was Rina Lee. She touched so many people’s lives.

I am sad, and mourning but I also celebrate the beautiful person Rina was. She was a bright light and joy and I feel honored to have met her and to have known Rina for the last three years. I will never be the same. My family will never be the same. I want to live my life loving my family and those around me and lifting people up. I want to continue to serve and feed people (what I love doing). I want to stop and talk with people. I want to let people know I care. Rina reminds me I have to do this. We go through life too fast. Missing things, missing people, missing opportunities. I am so guilty of this!

The next few weeks are going to be impossible. I have several big projects happening for work but I am going to face them with strength and gratitude because I am here and have a chance to do what I love and touch people’s lives.

Because of Rina, I will never be the same. I will strive to be better.

“Dearest Rina, we will always remember your infectious smile, your caring and loving spirit, and your amazing ability to make everyone near you feel important and loved.” We will miss you! But I know because of how you touched so many, we will all strive to be better people because of you.

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever!

Print Recipe

Pear Almond Tart

* you can use regular all purpose flour
Prep Time3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Cook Time1 hour hr 25 minutes mins
Total Time4 hours hrs 55 minutes mins
Course: Dessert
Servings: 6
Author: Hip Foodie Mom

Ingredients

Pears:

  • 4 cups water
  • 1 1/4 cups white granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 medium sized firm but ripe Bosc or D'Anjou pears peeled

Crust:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup blanched slivered almonds
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 9 tablespoons 1 stick plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 1/4 cups all purpose wheat flour*

Almond Filling:

  • 2/3 cup blanched slivered almonds
  • 1 tablespoon all purpose wheat flour*
  • 7 tablespoons coconut sugar
  • 6 tablespoons 3/4 stick unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 large egg
  • Powdered sugar optional

Instructions

For the pears:

  • Bring 4 cups water, sugar, and lemon juice to boil in large saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Add pears. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until pears are very tender, turning occasionally, for about 20 minutes. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)

For the crust:

  • Blend powdered sugar, almonds, and salt in a food processor until almonds are finely ground. Add the butter and blend until smooth, scraping down sides of bowl occasionally. Mix in egg yolk. Add the flour. Blend until the dough comes together in clumps. Gather dough into ball; flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Keep refrigerated.)

For the almond filling:

  • Finely grind the almonds and flour in a food processor. Mix in the sugar, butter, blending until smooth. Mix in the egg. Transfer filling to medium bowl. Cover and chill at least 3 hours. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Keep chilled.)
  • Position rack in center of oven and preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured sheet of parchment paper or lightly floured work surface. Turn dough into 9" diameter tart pan with removable bottom or 9" pie plate. Seal any cracks in dough. Trim overhang if needed. Pierce crust all over with fork. Freeze the crust for about 10 minutes.
  • Line the crust with buttered foil, buttered side down, then fill with dried beans or pie weights. Bake crust until sides are set, for about 20 minutes. Remove foil and beans. Bake crust until sides are golden and bottom is set, pressing with back of fork if crust bubbles, for about 10 minutes longer. Cool crust in pan on rack. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F.
  • Spread almond filling evenly in crust. Stem pears and cut each in half lengthwise; scoop out cores. Cut each half crosswise into thin slices. Gently press each pear half to fan slices but keep slices tightly overlapped. Slide spatula under pears and arrange on top of the filling.
  • Bake tart until golden and tester inserted into the center of filling comes out clean, for about 55 minutes. Cool tart in pan on rack. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve.

Recipe adapted from Epicurious.com

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever!

Pear Almond Tart made with poached pears, a tender, flavorful all-butter crust and a delicious almond filling. Not too sweet and amazing flavor! This is the most delicious tart ever!

 

You might also like...

  • Conquering the World with Almond Brioche Sticky BunsConquering the World with Almond Brioche Sticky Buns
  • Gluten Free Chocolate Chip MuffinsGluten Free Chocolate Chip Muffins
  • Bittersweet Chocolate Hazelnut TartBittersweet Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Facebook
Pinterest5
Twitter
Yummly
5Shares

Related Recipes

Filed Under: Baking, Desserts

« Healthy Weekly Meal Plan 11.5.16
Healthy Weekly Meal Plan 11.12.16 »

Comments

  1. Vivian | stayaliveandcooking says

    November 7, 2016 at 3:40 am

    Ohhhh I love poached pears! It’s actually my moms favourite, so I think I’ll have to try this recipe… And what great photos you’ve shared. Have a great week!

    Reply
  2. Kimchi John says

    November 7, 2016 at 4:21 am

    What a beautiful, heartfelt tribute! Thanks for sharing Alice!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 7, 2016 at 6:46 am

      Thank you so much, John!!!

      Reply
  3. Dannii @ Hungry Healthy Happy says

    November 7, 2016 at 4:25 am

    I totally think that pears are underated, so I always love seeing more pear recipes in the blog work. The combination of pear and almond sounds delicious!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 7, 2016 at 6:46 am

      Thank you, Dannii!

      Reply
  4. Gayle @ Pumpkin 'N Spice says

    November 7, 2016 at 6:21 am

    What a wonderful way to remember your friend, Alice. I am so sorry for your loss, but I am so glad that you had such a good friendship and bond with her. This pear almond tart sounds amazing! Just the dessert that would be perfect for Thanksgiving!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 7, 2016 at 6:46 am

      Thank you so much, Gayle! your comment is very much appreciated!

      Reply
  5. Sarah @Whole and Heavenly Oven says

    November 7, 2016 at 6:54 am

    What a gorgeous tribute, Alice!! I’m so sorry to hear about your friend’s passing, but I’m definitely praying for her family and yours! And this tart!! I totally want a huge slice for breakfast!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:08 am

      Thank you so much, Sarah! prayer would mean so much!

      Reply
  6. Shashi at RunninSrilankan says

    November 7, 2016 at 8:33 am

    Oh Alice, what a beautiful, beautiful, post. My heart hurts for your loss, but you are right “God’s ways are higher” indeed. This gorgeous pear tart and post is such a wonderful tribute to your beautiful friend, Alice. xx

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:08 am

      Thank you so much, Shashi! Means so much. and yes, God’s ways are higher. .

      Reply
  7. Ashley - The Recipe Rebel says

    November 7, 2016 at 9:08 am

    What a beautiful tribute Alice! She sounds like the most wonderful person and the best friend. Life is too short to waste not loving on friends and family with everything we’ve got. I’m going to try and remember this this week!

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:07 am

      Thank you so much, Ashley! yes, life is too short to waste not loving those around us, you are right! Thank you so much for the sweet comment!

      Reply
  8. Melanie | Melanie Makes says

    November 7, 2016 at 9:20 am

    You are such an amazing person and friend, Alice and I’m sure you were a bright light for your dear friend. Keeping you and Rina’s family in my prayers during their time of grieving.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:06 am

      Thank you so much, Melanie! I would really appreciate your prayers.

      Reply
  9. Robyn Stone | Add a Pinch says

    November 7, 2016 at 9:50 am

    Alice, You are a testament to true friendship. I am completely choked up at what a beautiful tribute you’ve given your friend. I will keep you in my prayers as you grieve. Our faith keeps us strong in times like these.
    It goes without saying that this pear tart is completely gorgeous and looks delicious!
    Take care my friend. xo

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:05 am

      Thank you so much, Robyn! Means so much. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.

      Reply
  10. Cathy | whatshouldimakefor.com says

    November 7, 2016 at 10:56 am

    Such a touching post. A heartfelt tribute to a wonderful friend and it sounds like she was a very special person. I’m certain she would love your words and your recipe in her honor. Isn’t it something to connect through food, in both the happy and sad times? I’m truly sorry for your loss Alice.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:02 am

      Thank you so much, Cathy! Truly means so much.

      Reply
  11. Laura | Tutti Dolci says

    November 7, 2016 at 10:54 pm

    I am so sorry for the loss of your friend, Alice! This tart is such a special tribute to her, and gorgeous at that! xo

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:01 am

      Thank you so much, Laura! Means so much. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.

      Reply
  12. Summer says

    November 8, 2016 at 3:24 pm

    So touching♥ The tart looks lovely♥

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:01 am

      Thank you so much, Summer! Means so much. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.

      Reply
  13. Kelly says

    November 9, 2016 at 5:36 am

    Oh Alice, this is such a beautiful tribute. I’m so sorry 🙁 Rina sounds like the most amazing person and true friend. Thinking of you and sending you and Rina’s family lots of love <3

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:01 am

      Thank you so much, Kelly! Means so much. Yes, Rina was amazing. One of a kind. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.

      Reply
  14. Rony Jahid says

    November 9, 2016 at 8:57 am

    Ooohh what a gorgeous look this pear Alice! Its so adorable & your family too. God bless your kids.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 8:00 am

      Thank you, Rony!

      Reply
  15. Liz says

    November 9, 2016 at 6:35 pm

    I am so, so sorry to hear that Rina lost her valiant battle with cancer. She was lucky to have you as a friend—she sounded like a very special and dear woman. May she rest in peace. xoxo

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 7:59 am

      Thank you so much, Liz! Means so much. She was a very special and dear, sweet person. One of the best! Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.

      Reply
  16. Megan - The Emotional Baker says

    November 11, 2016 at 6:07 am

    I’m so sorry for your loss. This tart is a beautiful tribute to your friend.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 7:58 am

      Thank you so much, Megan! Means so much. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.

      Reply
  17. Royale Blu Mama says

    November 11, 2016 at 9:07 am

    Thank you so much for sharing your story of your Beautiful friend,
    She was truly a special gift. I’m excited about this pear tart recipe.

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      November 12, 2016 at 7:58 am

      Thank you so much! Means so much. .

      Reply
  18. Linda says

    December 17, 2018 at 8:13 pm

    I’m planning to make this to serve for dessert Christmas Day. Having reviewed the recipe, i don’t see a reference to the size of pan to make it in. Would you suggest doing it in a traditional pie plate or a tart pan with a removable bottom? Thank you

    Reply
    • hipfoodiemom says

      December 17, 2018 at 8:22 pm

      Hello Linda! I used a standard sized pie dish/plate, only 8 to 9 “. I hope you love it!

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Healthy Weekly Meal Plan 11.19.16 says:
    November 19, 2016 at 4:45 am

    […] then, Sunday, we are hosting a gathering for my friend Rina, who lost her battle with cancer on November 1st. I am just hoping and praying for a lovely […]

    Reply
  2. Apple Pecan Cinnamon Rolls says:
    December 5, 2016 at 12:15 am

    […] addition to apples, Stemilt also grows summer fruit, cherries and pears! Click here to see a beautiful pear almond tart I made with my Stemilt D’Anjou […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
  • Facebook

Meet Alice

Alice Choi from Hip Foodie MomHello! My name is Alice. Here, at Hip Foodie Mom, you will find fresh food recipes using local, seasonal ingredients. From meat dishes to vegetarian to Asian inspired dishes, you are sure to find something you like. Thank you for stopping by!

Popular Posts

Salmon Bibimbap! Everything you love about Korean Bibimbap but with cooked salmon! Mix it all together, it's so good! 
Best Open Faced Tomato Sandwich! Take advantage of in-season tomatoes and make this! Would you use butter or mayonnaise?
Skillet Stuffed Shells with Zucchini and Mushrooms!! Stuffed shells filled with zucchini, mushrooms and ricotta cheese. This dish is so good! It's like deconstructed lasagna! The sauce has spicy Italian sausage and it is amazing. Skip the sausage if looking for a vegetarian meal!
Bok Choy with Sweet Red Chili Sauce! This bok choy is bursting with loads of flavor and is guaranteed to be your new favorite side dish.
Roasted Honeynut Squash and Kale Pizza made with Food 52’s pizza crust. So incredibly delicious! You have to try it!
Avocado Recipe Roundup! I could seriously eat avocados everyday. .  I love them so much. Here are some of my favorite recipes using avocados!

JOIN HIP FOODIE MOM

Subscribe today for a FREE weekly newsletter!




Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 Hip Foodie Mom. All content, recipes and photographs are copyrighted to Alice Choi and are the property of Hip Foodie Mom. They may not be republished in part or whole without permission and proper credit. Contact me to seek republishing and syndication rights.

JOIN THOUSANDS OF FOOD LOVERS!!

Get a weekly newsletter with RECIPES delivered straight to your inbox for FREE!

Your information will *never* be shared or sold to a 3rd party, nor will we spam your inbox.