SPICED PEAR UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE

Steps:

• 1. Preheat oven to 350^. spray a 9-inch round cake pan and then cut circle of parchment or waxed paper for bottom and butter it and the insides of the pan; set aside.
• 2. SUGAR SAUCE: In a bowl, using a wooden spoon, beat together the ingredients until thoroughly blended. Spread this mixture over the bottom of the prepared cake pan.
• 3. PEAR PREP: Cut the pear slices into 1/4 inch slices and place in a bowl. Sprinkle with the sugar and spices; stir gently to coat evenly. Arrange the pears in the bottom or the pan; fanning them in spiral fashion , so that the tapered ends point outward; use the small slices to fill any spaces. From another pear you can cut a piece from the center to make a circle. Place cherry halves in between pears and into the center.
• 4. CAKE: Whisk together flour, baking powder and salt.Set aside. Pour the milk and vanilla into measuring cup. set aside. --- In the large bowl of your electric mixer , beat the butter and sugar on medium-high , until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, scrape bowl sides after each addition. Reduce the speed to low and add the flour mixture in 3 addition , alternating with the milk mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat 2 minutes.
• 5. Pour the batter into the cake pan and spread evenly over the pears. Bake until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean , about 60-70 minutes.
• 6. Immediately place a plate larger than the pan, upside down on top of the cake. Carefully invert the cake with the plate, then carefully lift off the pan;gently shaking the pan if necessary to release the cake. Carefully remove the paper. Scrape any goo onto the cake. Let cool for 30 minutes.