Apricot-Glazed Pears
Sweet and tangy apricot-glazed pears offer a delightful dessert with warm or cold serving options, perfect for fruit lovers and those seeking a light, fruity treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use an 8 x 8 x 2-inch or 9 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Place pear halves, cut side down, in the pan.
- Pour a mixture of apricot preserves and orange juice over the pears.
- Cover the pan with a lid or foil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until pears are heated through and glazed.
- Garnish with ground nutmeg before serving.
- Serve warm or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the apricot preserves with peach or mango preserves for a different flavor profile. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth. If fresh pears are available, use them instead of canned; just ensure they are ripe and sliced evenly for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the apricot-glazed pears warm or cold as a delightful dessert or a sweet side dish. They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. For an elegant touch, consider serving them alongside a cheese platter featuring brie or goat cheese, or with a glass of Symphony Sugar Punch for a refreshing complement.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pears in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Microwave reheating is also an option but may make them a bit softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot-Glazed Pears contains roughly 251 calories, with 1g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pears instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh pears! Just ensure they are ripe and sliced evenly for uniform cooking. Adjust the baking time as needed, as fresh pears may take slightly longer to become tender compared to canned ones.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already quite close to vegan. Just ensure you choose apricot preserves that do not contain any animal products. The orange juice is naturally vegan, making this a delightful dessert option for those following a plant-based diet.
What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
You can experiment with other fruits like peaches, nectarines, or plums. These fruits have a similar texture and sweetness, making them great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the fruit used to ensure they are perfectly glazed and tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).