Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until crumbly.
Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water until dough holds together. Form into a disk and chill.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan.
Arrange the sliced pears in the prepared crust, overlapping them attractively.
In a bowl, whisk together vanilla, cinnamon, cream, and any remaining sugar. Pour over pears.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.
