If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a crisp day, look no further than this delightful Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe. It’s a charming blend of naturally sweet pears baked to soft perfection, generously drizzled with rich maple syrup, and accented by crunchy pecans and a hint of cinnamon. This recipe is the perfect way to turn simple, wholesome ingredients into a cozy, unforgettable treat that’s as comforting as it is impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and texture that will have you coming back for more.
- 4 ripe pears (halved): Choose pears that are firm yet ripe to ensure they bake to a silky, tender texture without falling apart.
- 1/3 cup maple syrup: This natural sweetener adds deep, caramel-like richness and balances the fruit’s tartness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Pecans bring a toasty crunch and buttery nuance that makes every bite exciting.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Dotting the pears with butter lends a luscious, silky finish and helps meld all the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Just a hint of cinnamon adds warmth and a subtle spice that complements the sweetness exceptionally well.
How to Make Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pears
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pears will bake evenly and achieve that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. While the oven warms up, rinse your pears and carefully slice them in half, keeping the stems intact for a pretty presentation. Arrange them cut-side up in a baking dish—this way, all the glorious toppings will nestle perfectly in the little cavities.
Step 2: Add Sweetness and Spice
Next, it’s time to drizzle the pear halves with the luscious maple syrup, letting the syrup pool slightly in the curves for maximum flavor absorption. Dot each pear with small pieces of butter to create rich, golden pockets of creaminess. Then sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top to introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty depth, finishing with a light dusting of cinnamon to awaken the warm spices.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. This gentle roasting softens the pears until they’re perfectly tender but still hold their shape, while the toppings transform into a fragrant, caramelized coating. Keep an eye on them as they bake—once the pears are fork-tender and the pecans gleam with toasted goodness, they’re ready to come out.
How to Serve Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe
Garnishes
Serving warmed Maple Pecan Baked Pears topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the dessert to another level. The cool, creamy contrast pairs beautifully with the baked fruit’s warmth and the nutty, sweet topping, creating a perfect balance of textures and temperatures.
Side Dishes
For a more substantial dessert experience, try serving these baked pears alongside spiced whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a light, crisp salad on the side if you want to offer a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or turn your dessert into a showstopper, plate each halved pear in a small shallow dish, then garnish with crushed pecans, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, or even a fresh sprig of mint. Drizzling a little extra maple syrup over the top right before serving adds a beautiful, glossy finish that catches the eye.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The pears will keep their tender texture, and the flavors even deepen slightly as they rest.
Freezing
Freezing is an option, but keep in mind that the texture of the baked pears might soften further upon thawing. If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to one month to maintain freshness.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, gently reheat the pears in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps the texture intact while warming everything through evenly. You can also microwave them on medium power, but take care not to overheat to avoid mushiness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work wonderfully if pecans aren’t your favorite or are unavailable. Just chop them finely to ensure even toasting during baking.
What kind of pears are best for this recipe?
Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett pears are excellent choices because they hold their shape well when baked and offer a nice balance of sweetness and firmness.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
You can make this Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe vegan by swapping the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time for a dinner party?
Yes! You can prepare the pears and toppings in advance, keep them covered in the fridge, then bake them just before serving to ensure they’re warm and fresh.
How can I reduce the sugar content in this recipe?
Consider using a smaller amount of maple syrup or opt for a natural sweetener alternative. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile slightly, but the pears’ natural sweetness will still shine through.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe is one of those deliciously simple desserts that feels special every time you make it. From the cozy warmth it brings to the home, to the effortless way it elevates humble ingredients, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. I encourage you to try it out, share it with friends, and savor the comforting magic that happens when sweet pears, toasty pecans, and maple syrup come together in perfect harmony.
Print
Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of Maple Pecan Baked Pears – a simple yet elegant dessert featuring ripe pears baked to tender perfection, drizzled with rich maple syrup, and topped with crunchy pecans and a hint of cinnamon. This wholesome treat is perfect for cozy evenings or as a sophisticated finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 4 ripe pears, halved
Sweeteners and Nuts
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Others
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Prepare the pears: Slice the ripe pears in half and arrange them cut-side up in a baking dish, allowing for even cooking and easy absorption of flavors.
- Add toppings: Drizzle each pear half generously with maple syrup, place small dots of butter on top, and then sprinkle the chopped pecans and cinnamon evenly to infuse warmth and texture.
- Bake the pears: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the pears are tender and fragrant, with the toppings lightly caramelized.
Notes
- Serve warm to enjoy the full richness of the maple syrup and butter.
- Pair with vanilla yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy contrast.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently warmed before serving.
