Name: Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Honey
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486815H33M4S
Total time: PT-486815H33M4S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted• 2 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)• Pinch of salt

Baked pears with cinnamon and honey are a timeless, comforting dessert that never fails to delight. These luscious, aromatic treats are a favorite among families and dinner party guests alike, offering a delightful balance of sweet, spicy, and juicy flavors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight indulgence or a showstopping finale to a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

The beauty of this classic recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can transform ordinary pears into a decadent, restaurant-worthy dessert. The combination of juicy, ripe pears, warm cinnamon, and the natural sweetness of honey creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and irresistible.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓

Baked pears with cinnamon and honey are a beloved recipe for a reason. The contrasting textures, from the tender, caramelized pears to the crunchy topping, make for a truly delightful experience. Plus, this recipe is incredibly accessible, with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. And the best part? You can easily prepare these baked pears in advance, making them a stress-free and impressive dessert option for any occasion.

The warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and the drizzle of sweet honey elevate these baked pears to a new level of indulgence. Whether you serve them as a decadent dessert, a cozy weekend treat, or a healthier alternative to traditional sweets, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.

🛒 What You Need to Prepare Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Honey ❓

• 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt

The beauty of this baked pears recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of juicy pears, warm cinnamon, and sweet honey creates the classic, comforting flavor profile that has made baked fruit desserts perennially popular.

📝 How to Make Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Honey Step-by-Step ❓

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Step 2: Slice the pears in half lengthwise and use a melon baller or small spoon to scoop out the cores, creating a small well in the center of each half.
• Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk to blend the ingredients together.
• Step 4: Arrange the pear halves, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the honey-cinnamon mixture over the pears, making sure to get some in the center wells.
• Step 5: Bake the pears for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork and the topping is bubbly and lightly caramelized.
• Step 6: Remove the baked pears from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, with an additional drizzle of honey on top if desired.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 35-40 minutes

Compared to traditional baked fruit desserts, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this baked pears recipe saves you 20-25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

👩🏻‍⚕️ Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 156
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 45mg

These baked pears provide approximately 10% of your daily vitamin C requirements and 8% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Reduced-fat option: Use 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce instead of the butter.
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the honey with 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup or stevia.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Added protein: Sprinkle a tablespoon of chopped walnuts, pecans, or sliced almonds over the pears before baking.
• Boost vegetables: Add a layer of roasted sweet potato or butternut squash cubes to the baking sheet before arranging the pears.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the baked pears.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with a light, leafy green salad for a complete dessert course.
• Complement the baked pears with a cup of hot mulled cider or a glass of dry white wine.
• For a cozy autumn evening, serve the pears alongside a bowl of hearty butternut squash soup.
• Create an elegant dessert platter by arranging the baked pears with sliced apples, figs, and a drizzle of honey.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: Be careful not to bake the pears for too long, as they can become mushy and lose their shape. Check them at the 25-minute mark and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Underbaking: If the pears are not tender when pierced with a fork, they need more time in the oven. Ensure they are soft and caramelized before removing them.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Arrange the pear halves with ample space between them to allow for even cooking and browning.
• Forgetting the cinnamon and honey: The cinnamon and honey are essential for creating the signature flavor profile, so don’t skip these ingredients.
• Not letting the pears cool slightly: Allowing the baked pears to cool for a few minutes before serving will help them maintain their shape and prevent burning your mouth.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These baked pears with cinnamon and honey retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the pears as directed, but stop before baking. Place the unbaked pear halves on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked pears to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the frozen pears on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat the baked pears in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds.

❓ FAQs

Can I make the baked pears in advance?

Absolutely! These baked pears are the perfect make-ahead dessert. You can prepare the pears up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator, or you can freeze the unbaked pear halves for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, simply bake the pears directly from the refrigerator or frozen state, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Can I substitute the pears with a different fruit?

Yes, you can experiment with different fruits in this recipe. Baked apples, plums, or peaches would also work well, though the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly. Just be sure to use ripe, firm fruits that can hold their shape during the baking process.

Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?

With a few simple modifications, this baked pears recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. To reduce the carbohydrates, swap the honey for maple syrup or a sugar-free sweetener. And for a gluten-free option, simply ensure that any accompaniments, such as ice cream or whipped cream, are also gluten-free.

Why are my baked pears too soft or mushy?

If your baked pears have turned out too soft or mushy, it’s likely due to overcooking. Be sure to check the pears at the 25-minute mark and adjust the baking time as needed, keeping a close eye on them to prevent them from becoming overcooked. Ripe, but firm, pears work best for this recipe to ensure they retain their shape and texture during baking.

Can I add any additional flavors or toppings to the baked pears?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with this recipe. You can sprinkle chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, over the pears before baking for a crunchy topping. Or, add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the cinnamon-honey mixture for a more complex flavor profile. Garnish the finished pears with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an even more indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

These baked pears with cinnamon and honey represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy weeknight dessert or a showstopping finale to a special meal, they’re sure to impress with their warm, aromatic flavors and tender, caramelized texture. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these baked pears demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the baking process. So why not indulge in the comforting delights of this classic recipe and let the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and honey fill your kitchen? Your family and guests are sure to be delighted.