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1
First, prepare the pan. Lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray, Line the pan with a 10-inch round of cooking parchment, pressing into the bottom and about 1/2 inch up the sides.
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2
Cut 2 tablespoons of butter into about 1/4-inch chunks and drop evenly over the parchment in the pan bottom. Sprinkle evenly with 1/2 cup brown sugar and the crystallized ginger.
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3
Peel the pears and cut in half, lengthwise. Then, slicing perpendicular to the cut edge, cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices. With a paring knife, cut the core from each slice. Arrange the slices flat, in a single layer, over the sugar mixture in the pan, trimming pieces as needed to fit.
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4
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, salt, and allspice.
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5
In another bowl, with an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the remaining 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup brown sugar until well blended.
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6
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Reduce speed to medium-low and beat in molasses.
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7
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
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8
Add flour mixture and buttermilk alternately, beating until incorporated, then beat on high speed just until well blended. Pour batter over pears.
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9
Bake at 325 degrees F until a toothpick inserted in the center (but not in the fruit) comes out clean, about 1 hour and 35 to 40 minutes (cake center may settle slightly).
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10
Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.
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11
Remove the pan sides. Place a platter over the cake, then, holding the two together, turn both over, so the cake is right-side up. Carefully remove pan bottom and parchment. Serve warm.
