Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears
A simple, elegant dessert that feels indulgent, these Cinnamon-Spiced Baked Pears highlight the fruit's natural sweetness. Enhanced by warm cinnamon and a crunchy walnut topping, it's a comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
For 2 servings
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish (e.g., 8x8 inch or similar) that can snugly fit the pear halves.
Wash the pears thoroughly. Carefully halve each pear lengthwise through the stem. Using a melon baller or a small spoon, scoop out the core and any tough fibrous bits, creating a small cavity in the center of each half.
Place the pear halves, cut-side up, into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice evenly over the cut surfaces of the pears to prevent browning and add a bright note.
In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, ground cinnamon, and light brown sugar. Pour the melted unsalted butter over the mixture and stir until everything is well combined and coated.
Evenly spoon the walnut-cinnamon-sugar mixture into the hollowed-out cavities of each pear half.
Pour the water or apple cider into the bottom of the baking dish around the pears. This creates steam, helping the pears cook evenly and preventing them from drying out.
Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the pears are fork-tender but still hold their shape. The topping should be slightly caramelized and fragrant. Cooking time may vary depending on the ripeness and size of the pears.
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the baked pears cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose Wisely: Select firm but ripe pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett varieties work wonderfully as they hold their shape well during baking.
- 2Prevent Browning: Don't skip the lemon juice; it not only prevents oxidation but also brightens the pear's natural sweetness.
- 3Moisture is Key: Adding a small amount of water or apple cider to the baking dish ensures a moist cooking environment, preventing the pears from drying out and creating a lovely syrupy sauce.
- 4Don't Overbake: Pears should be tender when pierced with a fork but not mushy. Overbaking can lead to a soft, unappealing texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan Delight
Replace the unsalted butter with an equal amount of melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Nut Free OptionNut-Free Option
Substitute the walnuts with rolled oats, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds for a similar crunchy texture.
Maple PecanMaple Pecan
Swap brown sugar for maple syrup (drizzle over pears before baking) and use chopped pecans instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Pears are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
They contain antioxidants like Vitamin C and K, which help combat oxidative stress and support overall cellular health.
Natural Sweetness
This dessert relies on the natural sugars of the pear, reducing the need for excessive added sweeteners, making it a healthier alternative to many traditional desserts.
Frequently asked questions
Firm, ripe varieties like Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett are ideal as they maintain their structure and develop a lovely tender texture without becoming mushy during baking.
