Pear and Chocolate Cake

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven and pan
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. Dust the sides with cocoa powder to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined and no lumps remain.
3. Cream butter and sugar
   In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add eggs and vanilla
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients
   Reduce mixer speed to low. Add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined. Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks with a rubber spatula.
6. Arrange pears and bake
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange the pear slices on top in a circular pattern, slightly pressing them into the batter. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and serve
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Let cool completely on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.