Simple Cinnamon Baked Pears
This simple, warming dessert feels indulgent but contains no added sugar, relying on the oven to concentrate the pear's natural sweetness and infuse it with comforting cinnamon.
For 2 servings
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash the pears thoroughly. Carefully halve each pear lengthwise and use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the core and any tough fibrous bits, leaving a small cavity.
Place the pear halves, cut-side up, in a small oven-safe baking dish. Pour the 2 tablespoons of water into the bottom of the dish around the pears to help keep them moist.
Generously sprinkle the ground cinnamon over the cut surfaces of the pears, ensuring an even coating.
Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the pears are fork-tender but still hold their shape. Cooking time may vary depending on the ripeness and type of pear.
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the pears cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the warm baked pears immediately, either as is or with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choose firm, ripe pears like Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou. Overripe pears can become mushy, while underripe ones will take longer to soften.
- 2To prevent the pears from drying out, you can cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil for the first 15-20 minutes of baking, then remove it to allow for slight caramelization.
- 3For an even richer flavor, you can add a tiny pinch of sea salt to the pears along with the cinnamon; it helps to balance and enhance the sweetness.
- 4Leftover baked pears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nutty Crunch
Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the cored cavity of the pears before baking for added texture and healthy fats.
Spiced & SweetSpiced & Sweet
Incorporate a tiny pinch of ground ginger or cloves with the cinnamon, and for a slightly sweeter treat, drizzle a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey over each pear half before baking (this will add sugar).
Savory TwistSavory Twist
Omit the Greek yogurt and instead, serve the warm pears with a crumble of goat cheese and a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for a unique appetizer or side dish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Pears are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
They contain beneficial antioxidants like vitamin C and K, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Gut Health Support
When served with plain Greek yogurt, this dessert provides probiotics that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, supporting overall digestive wellness.
Frequently asked questions
Firm, ripe pears such as Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou work wonderfully for baking as they hold their shape well and become tender without turning mushy. Avoid overly soft varieties.
