Description
This easy baked pears recipe offers a warm, sweet, and healthy dessert or snack option perfect for any occasion. Pears are halved, cored, sprinkled with cinnamon, drizzled with pure maple syrup and vanilla extract, then baked until soft and lightly browned. Served warm with optional maple almond granola and plain Greek yogurt, this recipe is simple to prepare in under 30 minutes and yields four servings.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 4 large pears (or 6 medium pears)
Spices and Flavorings
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Sweetener
- 1/2 cup (120ml) pure maple syrup
Optional Toppings
- Maple almond granola
- Plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a large baking pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Set it aside.
- Prepare pears: Cut the pears in half and use a cookie scoop, melon baller, or spoon to core out the seeds. Arrange the pear halves cut side up in the prepared pan, making sure they fit comfortably. Evenly sprinkle them with ground cinnamon, adding more if you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor.
- Mix and drizzle syrup: Whisk together the pure maple syrup and pure vanilla extract until combined. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the pears.
- Bake the pears: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the pears are soft and lightly browned on the edges. If your pears are very firm, you may need to bake a little longer.
- Serve and store: Remove the pears from the oven and serve warm with optional maple almond granola and plain Greek yogurt for extra texture and creaminess. Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Notes
- Choose ripe but firm pears so they hold shape while baking.
- If you don’t have maple syrup, honey can be a substitute, but note it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Adjust cinnamon quantity to your taste preference; more cinnamon adds warmth and spice.
- This dessert is best served warm but can be enjoyed cold from the fridge as well.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings such as nuts, dried fruit, or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American