Step 1

Preheat oven to 350F, with rack on lower middle position. Grease a ceramic tart pan or cast iron pan (needs to be stovetop-safe) with the butter. Set aside.

Step 2

In a bowl, combine pears with sweet wine and 1/3 cup sugar. Let stand 1 hour. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

Place ingredients for the Batter, using only 1/3 cup of sugar, in a blender in the order of ingredients listed. Cover and blend at top speed 1 min.

Step 4

Pour 1/4 inch layer of the batter at bottom of prepared baking pan. Place over moderate heat on stovetop and heat just until a film of batter has visibly set on the bottom of the dish; this keeps fruit from sinking to the bottom. Remove from heat and pour in the remaining batter. Spread pears in a fan-like pattern or however you wish. Sprinkle on the remainin 1/3 cup sugar. Smooth surface with back of a spoon.

Step 5

Bake 50-60 min. or until puffed up and golden brown; a knife inserted into center should come out clean. Let cool a bit. Serve warm with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream.