Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears
Highlighted under: Cozy Food
I absolutely love making Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears! The sweet aroma fills my kitchen, making it feel so warm and inviting. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare but delivers big on flavor and presentation. The combination of honey and cinnamon atop tender, juicy pears creates a comforting dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, these baked pears are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent treat.
When I first tried Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such an elegant dessert. I typically use ripe, juicy pears because they cook beautifully and become incredibly tender in the oven. I like to drizzle a bit of honey over the top just before serving to enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Another tip that I found works wonders is to sprinkle some chopped nuts before baking. This adds a lovely crunch that contrasts perfectly with the softness of the pears. It’s a delightful combo that has become a staple in my kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm, comforting flavors of honey and cinnamon
- Healthy and naturally sweet dessert option
- Easy to prepare and impress your guests
The Perfect Pears
Choosing the right pears is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in this dish. Look for ripe pears that yield slightly when pressed but are not overly soft. Varieties such as Bosc or Anjou are excellent options due to their firm flesh and sweet profile. Avoid overly ripe pears, as they can become mushy during baking and lose their shape.
When halving the pears, make sure to use a sharp knife to create clean edges; this will help them caramelize evenly in the oven. The goal is to prepare pears that not only taste great but also look stunning when served. Keeping the skin on enhances the visual appeal and adds more fiber, which is a nice nutritional bonus.
Baking Technique
Baking the pears at 350°F (175°C) ensures they cook through without burning. Monitor them closely to check for the visual clues of doneness: you'll want to see a slight golden hue developing on the edges and the honey bubbling around them. This usually takes about 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the pear's ripeness and size.
If you're looking for an extra layer of flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. These additions enhance the warmth and depth of the dish, making it even more comforting. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference—just be cautious as too much can make the dish overly sticky.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears
Main Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Enjoy these delightful baked pears warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired!
Instructions
Instructions for Making Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears
Prepare the Pears
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Halve the pears and remove the cores. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
Add the Toppings
Drizzle the honey evenly over the pears. Sprinkle the cinnamon on top, followed by the chopped walnuts if using. Add small pieces of butter on top of each pear half.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the pears are tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, either plain or with your choice of ice cream or whipped cream.
Enjoy your delicious Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears!
Pro Tips
- For an extra twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the honey before drizzling it over the pears. You can also experiment with different nuts or spices like nutmeg for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears warm for the best experience. They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, creating a delightful contrast between the warm fruit and cold creaminess. I also recommend drizzling some extra honey over the top before serving for added sweetness and presentation.
For a chic presentation, you can garnish with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This not only adds color but also brings a fresh herbal note that complements the flavors beautifully. These pears can also be served alongside a cheese platter for an exciting appetizer option.
Make-Ahead and Storage
These baked pears can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their warm and gooey texture without drying them out. If you plan to serve them later, consider holding back on the honey drizzling until just before serving to preserve the glossy finish.
If you're looking for variations, try switching out walnuts for pecans or almond slices, both of which complement the pears nicely. You can also substitute maple syrup for honey for a different flavor profile. For a more festive touch, consider adding a pinch of cloves or ginger to the cinnamon for a spiced variation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Yes, apples and peaches also work wonderfully with this recipe!
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use maple syrup in place of honey.
→ What is the best type of pears to use?
Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal as they hold their shape well during baking.
Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears
I absolutely love making Honey Cinnamon Baked Pears! The sweet aroma fills my kitchen, making it feel so warm and inviting. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare but delivers big on flavor and presentation. The combination of honey and cinnamon atop tender, juicy pears creates a comforting dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, these baked pears are a delicious way to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent treat.
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Halve the pears and remove the cores. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
Drizzle the honey evenly over the pears. Sprinkle the cinnamon on top, followed by the chopped walnuts if using. Add small pieces of butter on top of each pear half.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the pears are tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, either plain or with your choice of ice cream or whipped cream.
Extra Tips
- For an extra twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the honey before drizzling it over the pears. You can also experiment with different nuts or spices like nutmeg for added flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 2mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 33g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 26g
- Protein: 1g