Simple Baked Pear with Oats
This simple baked pear recipe offers a warm, comforting dessert or breakfast with no added sugar, relying on the natural sweetness of the fruit.
For 2 servings
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Wash the pears thoroughly. Carefully slice each pear in half lengthwise from stem to base. Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out the core and a small amount of flesh to create a cavity in each pear half, leaving about a 1/2-inch border.
In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Evenly divide the oat and pecan mixture among the four pear cavities, gently pressing it down to fill each one.
Place the filled pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Pour the 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the dish around the pears. This creates steam, helping the pears cook evenly and preventing them from drying out.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork and the oat topping is lightly golden. Cooking time may vary depending on the ripeness and size of your pears.
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the baked pears cool for a few minutes before serving, as they will be very hot.
Serve warm as a wholesome breakfast, a light dessert, or a comforting snack. Enjoy as is, or with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness (if not adhering to strict no-added-sugar).
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 for the best texture and sweetness. Bosc or Anjou pears hold their shape well during baking.
- 2To prevent the pears from drying out, ensure there's always a small amount of water in the bottom of the baking dish. You can add a tablespoon or two more if it evaporates too quickly.
- 3For easier coring, use a melon baller. It creates a neat, round cavity perfect for filling.
- 4If you prefer a softer pear, you can cover the baking dish loosely with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to allow the topping to crisp slightly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut & Seed Swap
Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or a mix of seeds like chia or flax for different textures and nutritional profiles.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add a pinch of ground ginger, cardamom, or a tiny amount of allspice to the oat mixture for a more complex spice profile.
Sweetness BoostSweetness Boost
For those not strictly avoiding added sugar, a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey can be mixed into the oats, or drizzled over the baked pears.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Pears and oats are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Pears contain antioxidants like vitamin C and K, while pecans offer vitamin E, all of which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Pecans contribute monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) can be used, though baking times might vary slightly. You could also try peaches or nectarines when in season.
