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Baked Pears

Baked Pears

Baked Pears is a simple, wholesome dessert that transforms fresh, ripe pears into a warm, tender treat enhanced by cozy spices, natural sweeteners, and optional nuts. This healthy and customizable recipe is quick to prepare, perfect for any season, and offers a delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pears with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits

  • 4 fresh ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)

Spices & Flavorings

  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Sweeteners

  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

Fats

  • 2 tbsp butter or coconut oil, cut into small pieces

Add-ons (optional)

  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pears: Wash and dry the pears thoroughly. Slice each pear in half lengthwise, then gently scoop out the core and seeds using a spoon to create a small cavity for filling or syrup.
  2. Arrange Pears in Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish and place the pear halves cut side up in it. The dish’s sides will collect any juices released during baking.
  3. Add Sweeteners and Spices: Drizzle honey or maple syrup evenly over the pear halves. Sprinkle cinnamon and a pinch of salt on top. Add vanilla extract or other desired spices now to infuse the pears with flavor.
  4. Top with Butter and Nuts: Dot each pear half with small pieces of butter or coconut oil. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the pears if using, to add texture and flavor.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pears for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are tender and golden, with the syrup softly bubbling in the dish. Check frequently after 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
  6. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow the baked pears to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish as desired with toasted nuts, Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce.

Notes

  • Choose ripe but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape after baking without becoming mushy.
  • Don’t skip spices like cinnamon and vanilla, which complement the pears and deepen their natural sweetness.
  • Use a baking dish with sides to catch caramelized juices that make wonderful spoonfuls later.
  • Keep a close eye on baking time, as pears can quickly go from perfectly tender to overly soft.
  • Serve baked pears warm but not piping hot for best flavor and texture.
  • Nuts are optional and can be replaced with seeds for a nut-free option.
  • To keep the recipe vegan, use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup instead of honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked pears, healthy dessert, easy baked fruit, gluten free dessert, autumn recipe, vegan option, cozy dessert