Pears in Mascarpone Custard

This recipe appears in the book "Under the Tuscan Sun," but I first read about it on a dear fellow blogger's post, Linda, from More Fun Less Laundry (isn't that a great name for a blog?).  Her Tuscan Menu and Tablescape is a lush, mouth-watering assault on the senses, and one of my favorite posts ever.  It inspired me to go out and get the book. 

The custard was love at first bite.  I've made it several times and served it in various ways.  Here, baked in Emile Henry mini ruffled pie dishes . . .

They were also a hit on Christmas Eve served with a dollop of whipping cream . . .

Thank you, Linda, for the inspiration!  Here's the recipe:

Peel and slice 6 medium pears (or peaches or apples) and arrange in a buttered baking dish.  Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar.  Cream 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of sugar until light.  Beat in 1 egg, then 2/3 cup of mascarpone.  Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour last and mix well.  Spoon over the fruit.  Bake at 350° until just set, about 20 minutes.  Serves 6 generously.

So easy!  So delicious!

Be merry all!

Be merry all, be merry all,

With holly dress the festive hall;

Prepare the song, the feast, the ball,

To welcome merry Christmas.

—William Robert Spencer

The dessert table . . .

Gingerbread squares with cream cheese frosting . . .

Chocolate mousse . . .

Pears Mascarpone Custard . . .

Vanilla-Cinnamon Custard (Natilla) . . .

Crème de menthe brownies (made by my wonderful sister-in-law, Kathy) . . .

Wishing you a blessed Christmas, surrounded by family and enveloped in the love of God.

A Tablescape with a Tuscan Vibe

Here was the inspiration . . .

I yearn to see some day the lovely sight of sunflowers growing under the Tuscan sun . . . Until then, I can enjoy the imagery . . . and bring the flowers into my home . . .

Here was the opportunity:  A reunion with my high school classmates and fellow members of the Cuban Club . . .  I am the one seated second from left, with the diagonally-striped sweater . . .

I hope you enjoy the pictures.  Please turn up your speakers so you can enjoy the music:  Vivaldi's "Estate" from "The Four Seasons . . .

Salt cellars masquerading as wheel barrows . . .

Ahh . . . summer . . .  L'estate!

I'm joining Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday.  Please stop by to see the creations of these remarkable tablescapers.