Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 9x9 pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, and egg. Once combined, add remaining cake ingredients (reserving pears) and stir to combine. Pour batter into prepared pan.
Arrange pears in an even layer over the top of the cake and push gently into batter.
Combine all topping ingredients and sprinkle evenly over cake.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden. Use a toothpick to ensure doneness in the middle!
Recipe by at https://www.adventuregathereat.com/pear-cardamom-buttermilk-cake/