Preheat oven to 350 degrees; grease an 8 x 8 inch baking dish.

In a microwavable safe bowl, place the butter and brown sugar. Heat for a minute on high, stir, heat an additional minute.

Remove from the microwave, stir again, and pour into prepared pan.

Place the cut pears into the syrup; set aside.

In a large bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, baking powder and salt.

Add the milk, applesauce, egg, and vanilla; stir until combined.

Pour over the pear mixture.

Place on a baking sheet (just in case it spills) and place in the oven.

Bake for 40-45 minutes.

Remove from oven and allow to set for about a minute.

Place a large plate over the dish, and carefully flip the cake onto the plate.*

Allow to cool then slice, serve and enjoy!