If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you absolutely must try this Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears with Maple Drizzle Recipe. These baked pears are beautifully tender with just the right hint of spice, perfectly complemented by a luscious maple syrup drizzle that takes every bite to a whole new level of cozy indulgence. The natural sweetness of ripe pears mingled with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a comforting aroma and flavor profile that will have you reaching for seconds before you know it. This recipe is a simple yet elegant way to bring warmth and sweetness to your dessert table without fuss or heavy ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is what makes this dish special. Each element in the Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears with Maple Drizzle Recipe plays a key role in bringing together the flavors, textures, and beautiful presentation.
- 4 ripe but firm pears: The star of the dish, pears should be ripe enough to be sweet but firm to hold their shape during baking.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the spices and syrup meld beautifully with the fruit.
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup, divided: Provides a natural sweetness and a glossy finish when drizzled over the finished pears.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This warm spice enhances the pears with its fragrant, comforting notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a slightly nutty, sweet complexity that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a gentle zing that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: Smooths and rounds out the spiced mixture with a subtle floral warmth.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and prevents the dish from tasting too sweet.
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and richness when sprinkled on top before baking.
How to Make Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears with Maple Drizzle Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Arrange the Pears
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a baking dish big enough to hold your pear halves in a single layer without crowding. Slice each pear in half and carefully core them, then place them cut side up in the dish. This arrangement lets the spice mixture soak into the fruit while baking and makes for a gorgeous presentation.
Step 2: Mix the Spiced Maple Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This savory-sweet spiced butter mix is what gives your pears their signature warm flavors and caramelized finish.
Step 3: Coat the Pears and Add Nuts
Drizzle and spoon this fragrant mixture evenly over each pear half, making sure every nook is covered with those delicious spices. If you love a little texture contrast, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top now. These nuts will toast lightly in the oven, adding a wonderful crunch to your finished dish.
Step 4: Bake Until Tender and Caramelized
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. About halfway through, baste your pears with the juices collecting in the dish to ensure even flavor saturation and beautiful caramelization. You’ll know they’re ready when tender and golden, filling your kitchen with an irresistible, spiced aroma.
Step 5: Finish with Maple Drizzle
Remove the baked pears from the oven and immediately drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of pure maple syrup. This extra touch adds shine and a sweet glaze that makes each bite even more heavenly.
How to Serve Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears with Maple Drizzle Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh mint leaves makes for a simple but elegant garnish. For a more indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—warm pears and cold ice cream together are simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
These baked pears pair beautifully with creamy Greek yogurt or a cheese plate featuring mild cheese like mascarpone or ricotta that can balance the sweetness and spice. For a heartier option, try serving them alongside roasted poultry dishes to use the pears as a naturally sweet palate cleanser.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing each pear half in small dessert bowls and pour a little of the sticky spiced syrup over. Alternatively, slice the baked pears and place them over warm oats or pancakes with a drizzle of the maple syrup for a magical breakfast twist on the Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears with Maple Drizzle Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the baked pears to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing their tender texture or wonderful flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish later, freeze individual pear halves on a baking sheet first, then store them in freezer-safe bags. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Rewarm your baked pears in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works too but can make the pears a bit watery, so the oven is preferred to retain texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Absolutely! While pears work best due to their firm texture and sweetness, apples are a great substitute. Adjust baking time slightly depending on the fruit’s firmness.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and ensure your maple syrup is pure and not mixed with any animal-derived ingredients.
What type of pears should I use?
Firm but ripe varieties like Bosc or Anjou are ideal. They hold their shape well during baking and develop a tender, juicy texture with a sweet flavor.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the pears up to the point before baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready to serve for best results.
How do I make the dish less sweet?
Reduce the maple syrup slightly or choose pears that are less ripe. Adding more spice, like extra cinnamon or ginger, can also balance sweetness with warmth.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears with Maple Drizzle Recipe. It’s a soul-warming dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious, perfect for cozy nights or special gatherings. Once you experience the delightful mix of tender baked pears, aromatic spices, and luscious maple glaze, you’ll find this recipe becoming a go-to favorite to share with friends and family.
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Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears with Maple Drizzle Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a cozy and wholesome dessert with these Warm Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears drizzled with pure maple syrup. Perfectly ripe pears are infused with warm spices and baked to tender caramelized perfection, making a delicious and healthy treat that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Pears and Topping
- 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pears: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the pear halves in a single layer. Arrange the pears cut-side up in the dish to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Mix Spiced Butter Syrup: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will infuse the pears with warm spice flavors and sweetness.
- Coat the Pears: Spoon the spiced butter mixture evenly over each pear half, ensuring good coverage for flavor and caramelization. If using, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the pears for added texture and nuttiness.
- Bake the Pears: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Halfway through baking, baste the pears with the pan juices to enhance moisture and flavor. Pears should become tender and lightly caramelized at the edges when done.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pears from the oven and drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of maple syrup over them. Serve warm, optionally alongside vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for extra richness.
Notes
- For extra richness and creaminess, serve these baked pears with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt.
- If you prefer, apples can be substituted for pears, but keep in mind that the baking time may need slight adjustments due to texture differences.
