Are you craving a comforting, yet elegant dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe, inspired by the simplicity and deliciousness of Jamie Oliver's style, features baked pears – a classic dessert elevated to new heights. It's perfect for a cozy night in, a special occasion, or simply satisfying that sweet tooth. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, proving that homemade cooking can be both delicious and straightforward.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe but firm pears (Conference or Bosc pears work well)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, for added crunch
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or individual ramekins. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Prepare the pears: Wash and peel the pears, leaving the stems intact. Cut them in half lengthwise and remove the cores. You can use a melon baller or a small spoon for this. This simple step ensures your pears bake evenly.
Create the delicious filling: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. This flavorful mixture will perfectly complement the sweetness of the pears.
Assemble and bake: Place the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the spice mixture evenly over the pears, ensuring each half is generously coated. Dot the tops with the cubed butter. Add the water to the bottom of the baking dish; this will create steam and prevent the pears from drying out during baking. Sprinkle with your chosen nuts (if using).
Bake to perfection: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the juices are bubbling. The pears should be easily pierced with a fork. Baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your pears. If the pears start browning too quickly, loosely tent the baking dish with foil.
Serve and enjoy: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the pears cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Pear Selection: Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to the touch. Overripe pears will become mushy during baking.
- Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as cardamom or ginger, to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar and honey to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount accordingly.
Variations:
- Citrus Burst: Add a zest of orange or lemon to the spice mixture for a refreshing twist.
- Boozy Pears: For an adult treat, add a tablespoon or two of your favorite liqueur (like Grand Marnier or Calvados) to the baking dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 40-50g Protein: 2-3g
This recipe is a perfect example of how easy and satisfying healthy meals can be. It's a delicious dish that's sure to impress your family and friends, making it a great addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!