As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are simple yet can transform a regular evening into something special. There’s something comforting about the smell of baked fruits filling the house, especially as the seasons change and there’s a nip in the air.
Last weekend, I whipped up a batch of Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Honey for my family. It turned out to be such a comforting and delightful treat that I couldn’t help but share it with you all. It’s one of those recipes that remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smells of cinnamon and sweet goodness made every meal feel like a hug.
When you’re juggling a lot, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed in the kitchen. But, this recipe is a lifesaver—it’s quick to prepare and requires just a handful of ingredients. In just 40 minutes, you can have a dessert on the table that tastes so luxurious, you’d think it took all day.
The star of this dish, the pear, is a fruit that doesn’t get much attention, but it should! Pears become wonderfully soft and juicy when baked, and they pair so perfectly with cinnamon and honey, creating a dessert that’s as delicious as it is wholesome.
Whenever I make this, my family can hardly wait to get a taste. The warm spice from the cinnamon and the rich sweetness of the honey make these baked pears a truly satisfying dish. And as an added bonus, it’s not too indulgent calorie-wise, making it a perfect everyday dessert.
How to Make Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Honey
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Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized pears
- 3 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla essence
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. It’s key to ensure the oven is hot to help the pears cook evenly and develop a lovely color.
2. Using a vegetable peeler, gently peel the pears. By removing the skin, the flavors will infuse deeper into the fruit.
3. Slice the pears in half after trimming the ends, then carefully remove the core from each pear half.
4. Arrange the pear halves, cut-side down, in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
5. In a small bowl, combine the honey, ground cinnamon, butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla essence. Warm this mixture briefly in a microwave for about 30 seconds until it’s easier to blend smoothly.
6. Evenly spoon most of this mixture over the pear halves, reserving a bit for later use.
7. Place the pears into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and lightly caramelized.
8. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pour any remaining sauce over the pears before enjoying.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving to enhance their warm, comforting flavors.
Cooking Tips
Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can enhance the flavors even more. If you find the pears browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil.
Serving Suggestions
These pears are delightful on their own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert to a truly memorable treat. You can also sprinkle some toasted nuts on top for added crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of honey, maple syrup is a fantastic alternative. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a lighter, dairy-free version. If vanilla essence isn’t readily available, try almond extract for a slightly different but delicious flavor.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, try substituting peaches or nectarines for pears for a delightful twist. In the fall, apples can take center stage in this recipe, while maintaining the comforting flavor profile of cinnamon and honey.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains butter, which can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If coconut oil is an allergen, try using a different plant-based fat like sunflower oil. Ensure that the honey is safe to consume for children over a year old, as it can contain spores not suitable for infants.
FAQs
Can I use any type of pear for this recipe?
Yes, most pear varieties work well with this recipe. However, Bartlett or Bosc pears are particularly great as they hold their shape well when baked. Avoid overly ripe pears as they may become mushy.
Is it necessary to peel the pears?
While peeling is recommended to ensure that the flavors seep into the fruit, you can leave the skin on if you prefer a more rustic texture. The skin may become slightly chewy when baked.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pears and the honey-cinnamon mixture a day ahead, keeping both components in the refrigerator separately. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
What can I use if I don’t have vanilla essence?
If you don’t have vanilla essence, almond extract or a bit of vanilla bean paste is a great substitute. These will add a different but equally delicious depth of flavor to your dish.
Can I freeze baked pears?
While it’s possible to freeze baked pears, the texture may change upon thawing, becoming slightly mushy. For best results, enjoy them fresh. If you do freeze them, ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent freezer burn.
How do I know when the pears are done?
The pears are done when they’re tender and caramelized. You can gently pierce them with a fork or knife to check for softness. The bake time may vary slightly depending on the ripeness of the pears.
Baked Pears With Cinnamon And Honey
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized pears
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
- Peel the pears using a vegetable peeler.
- Trim the ends off the pears and then slice them in half.
- Carefully scoop out the core from each pear half.
- Arrange the pears cut-side down on a baking sheet or a 9 x 13 glass baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together honey, cinnamon, butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract. Heat this mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds to make it easier to combine. Stir until smooth.
- Drizzle about 1/2 to 3/4 of the mixture over the pears evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the pears are soft and lightly browned.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Before serving, spoon any leftover sauce over each pear.
- ENJOY your delicious treat!
