Baked Quince with Maple & Walnuts
This simple yet elegant recipe transforms hard, tart quince into a tender, aromatic delight, with the sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of toasted walnuts.
For 2 servings
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a small baking dish that can comfortably hold the quince halves.
Wash the quinces thoroughly. Using a sharp, sturdy knife, carefully halve each quince lengthwise. Scoop out the tough core and seeds using a spoon or melon baller. You can peel the skin if desired, but it softens beautifully during baking and adds flavor.
Place the quince halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Add the water and optional lemon juice to the bottom of the dish.
Drizzle each quince half generously with maple syrup. Sprinkle evenly with ground cinnamon. If using, dot each half with small pieces of unsalted butter.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the quince is tender when pierced with a fork but still holds its shape.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the quince is deeply caramelized and very tender. The liquid in the dish should have reduced to a syrupy glaze.
While the quince finishes baking, toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the baked quince cool slightly in the dish, allowing it to absorb more of the delicious syrup. Serve warm, topped with the toasted walnuts and an extra drizzle of the pan syrup.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choosing Quince: Select firm, bright yellow quinces with a fragrant aroma. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes.
- 2Cutting Quince: Quince is very hard. Use a heavy, sharp chef's knife and cut carefully. A good trick is to microwave the whole quince for 2-3 minutes before cutting to soften it slightly.
- 3Don't Rush the Bake: The long, slow baking time is crucial for breaking down the quince's tough texture and developing its sweet, aromatic flavor. Covering it initially helps steam it tender.
- 4Serving Suggestions: Enjoy baked quince on its own, with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream, or as a side to roasted meats.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spice Profile
Experiment with other warm spices like ground cardamom, ginger, or a pinch of nutmeg instead of or in addition to cinnamon.
Nut ToppingNut Topping
Substitute pecans, almonds, or pistachios for walnuts. Lightly toast them for best flavor.
Added FlavorAdded Flavor
Add a splash of brandy, port, or apple cider to the baking liquid for an extra layer of flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Quince is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Both quince and walnuts are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Walnuts provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, known for their role in supporting cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Peeling is optional. The skin of the quince softens beautifully during the long baking process and adds to the fruit's flavor and nutritional content. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel it.
