Baked Pears

A delicious plate of baked pears topped with cinnamon and nuts.

Baked Pears: A Sweet Embrace of Autumn

There’s something magical about the aroma of baked pears wafting through your kitchen. The scent of warm, buttery fruit mingled with the sweet notes of brown sugar and spicy cinnamon captures the essence of cozy evenings and family gatherings. Each tender pear, infused with the richness of its warm filling, promises comfort and delight in every bite. This baked pears recipe not only tastes heavenly but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that can turn any ordinary day into a special occasion.

Picture this: a chilly autumn afternoon, the leaves turning golden outside, and you’re tucked away in the warmth of your home, baking these luscious pears. Their soft, yielding texture melds beautifully with the crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful contrast that dances on your palate. With just a hint of spice, this recipe is not just dessert; it’s an experience that envelops you in coziness, making it perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or a simple treat for yourself after a long day.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 215
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Fiber: 4g

(Information verified through trusted nutritional databases like the USDA Nutrient Database and Mayo Clinic.)

Why Make This Recipe

Baked pears are not only a treat for your taste buds, but they also fill your home with an inviting aroma. They’re easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for spontaneous gatherings or cozy family dinners. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these baked pears are an epicurean delight that requires little effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether served as a dessert or enjoyed as a warm breakfast treat, they carry the essence of home and heart in each bite.

How to Make Baked Pears

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe pears
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup water

Optional Ingredients & Substitutions:

  • Use pecans instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
  • Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar for a natural sweetener.
  • Add a touch of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Carefully cut the pears in half and remove the cores.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped walnuts, and raisins.
  4. Arrange the pear halves in a baking dish, cut side up.
  5. Generously fill each pear half with the mixture from the bowl.
  6. Dot the tops with butter and pour the water into the dish.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Testing Doneness: Pierce the pears with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart.
  • Extra Crispiness: If you prefer a crispy topping, broil for an extra 1-2 minutes after baking (watch closely to avoid burning).

How to Serve

Baked pears are delightful on their own, but you can enhance their flavor by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more sophisticated touch, pair them with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. Drizzling them with honey or adding a sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the experience to new heights.

How to Store

  • Room Temperature: Baked pears are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temperature for one day.
  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Expert Tips

  • Choosing the Best Pears: Varieties like Bosc or Bartlett are ideal for baking due to their natural sweetness and ability to hold their shape.
  • Spice Variations: For a unique twist, add nutmeg or ginger to the filling for added warmth and depth.
  • Perfecting the Texture: Avoid overmixing the filling ingredients to maintain the integrity and crunch of the walnuts.

Delicious Variations

  • Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine and use a vegan sweetener.
  • Cinnamon Swirl Pears: Swirl in some cinnamon and nutmeg into the filling for an aromatic twist.
  • Gluten-Free Alternative: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; simply ensure that any added ingredients like granola or toppings are also gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen pears?
    Yes, but be aware that frozen pears may have a softer texture after baking. Thaw them before use.

  2. What if my pears are not ripe?
    Choose ripe pears for the best flavor and texture. If your pears aren’t ripe, let them sit at room temperature for a few days until they soften.

  3. Can I skip the nuts?
    Absolutely! You can omit the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version, or substitute them with seeds or oats.

  4. How do I know when the pears are done?
    Pears are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork but are not falling apart.

  5. What are some good toppings?
    Besides whipped cream or ice cream, you can top baked pears with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of granola, or fresh mint.

Conclusion

Baked pears are a delightful treat that encapsulates the warmth and joy of the autumn season. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple process, you can create a dish that feels special and comforting. We’d love to hear your comments or see your unique variations on this recipe! Give it a try and let the sweet, buttery scent of baked pears fill your home with happiness. Enjoy!

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Baked Pears


  • Author: jamal
  • Total Time: 55
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A cozy and comforting dessert featuring tender baked pears infused with brown sugar, cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ripe pears
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Carefully cut the pears in half and remove the cores.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped walnuts, and raisins.
  4. Arrange the pear halves in a baking dish, cut side up.
  5. Generously fill each pear half with the mixture from the bowl.
  6. Dot the tops with butter and pour the water into the dish.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Baked pears are best enjoyed fresh, but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 45
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 215
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
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