Easy Baked Pears with Cranberries & Pecans Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly blends cozy warmth, natural sweetness, and a delightful crunch, this recipe for Baked Pears with Cranberries & Pecans is your new best friend in the kitchen. These baked pears are tender and juicy, paired with tart cranberries and toasted pecans for a combination that’s both healthy and irresistibly delicious. Whether you want a simple weeknight treat or a stunning dish for guests, this easy-to-make dessert brings fall flavors to life with wholesome ingredients and minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort: Prepping baked pears with cranberries & pecans takes just minutes, giving you more time to relax and less time in the kitchen.
• Natural Sweetness: The pears’ juicy sweetness pairs fantastically with the tart cranberries, creating an ideal balance that satisfies without overload.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Using fresh fruit and nuts means you’re indulging guilt-free, with vitamins, fiber, and heart-healthy fats in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive holiday gathering, this baked dessert impresses without stress.
• Customizable Flair: Switching up spices or nuts lets you tailor the flavors for unique twists every time you make it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may be simple, but they’re essential to creating the perfect texture, color, and flavor profile of baked pears with cranberries & pecans. Each component adds a unique touch, from the sweet juiciness of the pears to the crunch of pecans and the bright pop of cranberries.

• Ripe Pears: Choose firm but ripe pears for the best baking texture that softens without turning mushy.
• Fresh or Dried Cranberries: Fresh adds tartness, while dried brings a chewy sweetness—both are delicious.
• Chopped Pecans: These provide a satisfying crunch and a rich, buttery flavor.
• Maple Syrup or Honey: A natural sweetener that enhances the fruit’s flavors without overwhelming them.
• Cinnamon: This warm spice lifts the dish with cozy aromatics.
• Butter or Coconut Oil: A touch of fat helps the pears brown beautifully and adds richness.
• Lemon Juice: Prevents the pears from browning and adds a subtle brightness.
• Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds depth and a lovely fragrance.

Variations for Baked Pears with Cranberries & Pecans

This recipe’s flexibility means you can easily customize it to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or available ingredients. Here are some fantastic ways to make this dessert your own.

• Swap the Nuts: Use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for different textures and flavors.
• Spice it Up: Add nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and complexity.
• Sweeten Naturally: Try agave syrup, date syrup, or even a sprinkle of coconut sugar instead of maple syrup or honey.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version.
• Add Granola Topping: Sprinkle crunchy granola on top before baking for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Baked Pears with Cranberries & Pecans

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and halve the pears, then carefully scoop out the core to create a hollow center perfect for the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine fresh or dried cranberries, chopped pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract if using. Stir well to evenly blend the flavors and coat the fruit and nuts.

Step 3: Fill the Pears

Spoon the cranberry and pecan mixture into the hollowed centers of each pear half, packing it gently but not overfilling. This will create a beautiful, flavorful pocket inside the fruit.

Step 4: Add Butter and Bake

Dot each filled pear with small pieces of butter or drizzle melted coconut oil over the top. Place the pears in a baking dish, sprinkle with a bit of lemon juice to keep them fresh, and slide them into the oven for about 25-30 minutes, until pears are tender and golden.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once baked, let the pears cool just a little before serving to enjoy the melty, nutty filling alongside the soft fruit.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Pears with Cranberries & Pecans

• Choose Firm Pears: Firmer pears hold shape better during baking and absorb flavors beautifully.
• Don’t Overfill: Leaving a small gap at the top prevents the filling from spilling over in the oven.
• Toast Pecans First: Lightly toasting nuts before mixing enhances their flavor and crunch.
• Use Fresh Cranberries When Possible: Fresh berries provide the best bright pop, but dried work well if fresh aren’t available.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the pears to rest a few minutes after baking to let the juices settle for easier handling.

How to Serve Baked Pears with Cranberries & Pecans

Garnishes

Top your baked pears with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of powdered cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and a pretty presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this warm dessert with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a light cheese like mascarpone to bring creamy contrast to the juicy fruit and crunchy nuts.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your baked pears in shallow bowls with a pool of their syrupy juices and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a vibrant and elegant look that’s perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, store any leftover baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, preserving their flavor and texture.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled baked pears in a single layer on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 10 minutes or warm in the microwave for 30-60 seconds to maintain the juicy texture without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of pears?

Yes! Apples or firm peaches make wonderful substitutes if you want to try something different but keep the same cozy baked fruit concept.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This dessert uses no gluten-containing ingredients, making it safe for gluten-free diets as long as you avoid cross-contamination.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply substitute butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and make sure to use maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener.

How do I keep the pears from browning before baking?

Lightly tossing or brushing the cut pears with lemon juice prevents oxidation and helps them stay bright and fresh before baking.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the pears and filling up to a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake fresh just before serving for optimal taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Ready to treat yourself to a dessert that’s both simple and spectacular? This Baked Pears with Cranberries & Pecans recipe delivers warm, comforting flavors wrapped up in a wholesome, vibrant package. Once you discover how easily these baked pears transform into a beautiful, delicious dish, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite healthy indulgences to share again and again.

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