Pear pancakes

1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 medium Anjou or Bosc pears, thinly sliced lengthwise
1/4 cup pear nectar
1 cup half and half
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Confectioners sugar

Preheat oven to 425F. In a deep, 10 inch cast iron skillet, add 1/3 cup granulated sugar, the pear nectar and the pear slices. Sprinkle the pears with 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar. Cook undisturbed, over medium high heat until the sugar caramelizes, about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, using a blender, combine the half and half, eggs and vanilla.. Add the flour, salt and remaining granulated sugar. Blend on high speed for 3 seconds, then scrape down the sides of the blender for 10 seconds more.

Pour the batter over the pears and bake until lightly browned and puffy, about 15 minutes. Lower the heat to 350 and bake until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean, about 10 minutes more.

Sprinkle with confectioners sugar before serving.