Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This easy baked pear recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and delicious treat, ideal for a cozy night in or a simple yet elegant addition to a dinner party. It’s a healthy, homemade dessert that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Get ready to experience the delightful sweetness of baked pears, enhanced with warm spices and a touch of honey. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply wanting to enjoy a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Anjou are excellent choices)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans, a sprinkle of brown sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pears: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and carefully peel the pears, leaving the stems intact. Cut them in half lengthwise and remove the core using a melon baller or small spoon.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Filling: In a small bowl, combine the honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake: Place the pear halves in a baking dish. Spoon the honey-spice mixture evenly over the pears, ensuring they’re well coated. Dot each pear half with small pieces of butter. If using nuts, sprinkle them over the pears. For extra sweetness, add a light sprinkle of brown sugar.
Step 4: Baking Time: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the juices are bubbling. The baking time may vary depending on the size and ripeness of your pears. Check them around the 30-minute mark; they're ready when a knife or fork easily pierces the flesh.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked pears warm, either on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra honey.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Pears:
- Pear Selection: Choose ripe but firm pears for the best results. Overripe pears will become mushy during baking.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or allspice.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey to your preference. You can also use maple syrup as a substitute.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaked pears will lose their shape and become too soft. Keep an eye on them during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Variations:
- Boozy Pears: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the honey-spice mixture for an adult twist.
- Citrus Burst: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a brighter flavor.
- Chocolate Delight: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the baked pears before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on added ingredients)
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g
- Fiber: 4-6g
- Protein: 1-2g
This easy baked pear recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!