Cinnamon Baked Pears with Walnuts
A naturally sweet and elegant dessert featuring tender baked pears infused with warm cinnamon and topped with crunchy walnuts, offering a comforting and wholesome treat.
For 2 servings
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a small baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Wash the pears thoroughly. Carefully halve each pear lengthwise and use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the core and any tough fibrous bits, creating a small cavity.
Place the pear halves, cut-side up, into the prepared baking dish. Pour the water into the bottom of the dish around the pears.
In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, ground cinnamon, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of sea salt (if using). Stir well to combine.
Spoon the walnut mixture evenly into the cored cavities of each pear half. You can also sprinkle some over the top of the pear flesh.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pears are fork-tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. The exact time will depend on the ripeness and type of your pears.
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the pears cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of plain unsweetened vegan yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose firm but ripe pears: Pears should be firm to the touch but yield slightly when gently squeezed. Overly ripe pears can become mushy, while underripe ones will take longer to soften.
- 2Don't overbake: Keep an eye on the pears towards the end of the baking time. They should be tender but still hold their shape, not turn into a complete purée.
- 3Brighten the flavor: A small squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the pears before baking can prevent browning and add a lovely bright note that balances the sweetness.
- 4Make it a meal: For a heartier breakfast or snack, serve these baked pears with a sprinkle of granola or a side of oatmeal.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut & Seed Swap
Substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, pistachios, or a mix of seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a different texture and flavor profile.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add a pinch of ground nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, or a dash of pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon-walnut mixture for extra warmth and complexity.
Fruity AdditionsFruity Additions
Mix in a few dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates with the walnuts for added chewiness and natural sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Fiber-Rich
Pears are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Boost
Both walnuts and cinnamon are packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, contributing to cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this recipe works wonderfully with firm apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) or even quinces, though quinces will require a longer baking time due to their density.
