Elegant Baked Pears Recipe | Easy & Delicious Dessert

Looking for an effortless dessert that feels gourmet? Baked pears are your answer! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and a little prep time, you can transform simple pears into a warm, indulgent treat. Perfectly caramelized and aromatic, they’re the ideal dessert for dinner parties or a cozy night in.

This guide will walk you through the best way to bake pears, offer delicious variations to change things up and provide tips for selecting the perfect pears for baking. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or someone new to the kitchen, you’re bound to impress with this delightful dish.

Why Baked Pears Are a Must-Have Dessert

Baked pears are:

• Easy to make — No complicated techniques!
• Versatile — Perfect for any season and can easily be customized.
• Healthy — Naturally sweetened and packed with fiber and vitamins.
• Minimal effort, maximum effect — A stunning dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours.

Whether you’re serving them plain, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or drizzled with a decadent sauce, baked pears are always a showstopper.

Ingredients for Classic Baked Pears

To make four servings of baked pears, you’ll need:

• 4 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc work best)
• 2 tablespoons of melted butter
• 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Optional toppings:
• • Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • Whipped cream or ice cream
  • A sprinkle of granola or oats

Pro Tip:

Use pears that are slightly firm to the touch. Overripe pears will become mushy, while underripe ones won’t soften enough.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Perfect Baked Pears

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish that will snugly fit the pears.

Step 2. Prep the Pears

1. Wash and dry the pears.
2. Slice each pear lengthwise and use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and create a small cavity for your toppings.
3. Optional but recommended: Brush the cut sides of the pears with a little lemon juice to prevent them from browning.

Step 3. Create the Flavorful Sauce

1. Mix the melted butter, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a small bowl.

Step 4. Coat the Pears

1. Place the pear halves cut side up in the prepared baking dish.
2. Drizzle the sauce generously over each pear, letting the excess pool in the dish.

Step 5. Bake

Bake the pears for 25–30 minutes, basting with the sauce every 10 minutes. Cook until the pears are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 6. Add Your Toppings

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped nuts, granola, or oats over the pears for extra crunch. For a more indulgent dessert, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the classic recipe, why not get creative? Here are some tasty variations:

1. Spiced Wine-Infused Baked Pears

• Replace half of the butter and honey mixture with a splash of red wine.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves for a rich, spiced aroma.

2. Chocolate-Lover’s Baked Pears

• Sprinkle chocolate chips in the pear’s cavity after 20 minutes of baking.
• Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top as a finishing touch.

3. Savory Baked Pears

• Skip the cinnamon and honey, and use olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary for a unique savory dish.
• Pair with brie cheese and a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate appetizer.

4. Cranberry and Almond Topping

• Mix dried cranberries and slivered almonds into the honey mixture before baking.
• This variation is perfect for winter and holiday gatherings.

Tips for Serving and Storage

Serving Suggestions

• Warm and fresh from the oven is always best.
• Add a cooling element like Greek yogurt, mascarpone, or ice cream for contrast.
• Pair with a drizzle of caramel or butterscotch sauce for extra indulgence.

Storage

• Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, warm in the microwave in 20-second intervals or the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Can You Freeze Baked Pears?

Yes! Freeze cooked pears in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pears are best for baking?

Bosc and Anjou pears are ideal due to their firm texture, which holds up well in the oven. Bartletts work too but can become very soft during baking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Do I have to peel the pears?

Nope! The skin helps the pears hold their structure during baking and adds texture to the dish. If you prefer them without the skin, you can peel them beforehand.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the pears and sauce a few hours in advance; store them separately in the fridge, then bake them when ready to serve.

Elevate Your Baking Game Firsthand

There you have it—a foolproof recipe for elegant baked pears, delicious variations to try, and tips to make each serving unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication.

Have a pear-fect baking idea, or tried this recipe and loved it? Share your creations with us on social media using #BakedWithLove or drop a comment below.