Baked Pears
Sweet baked pears infused with maple syrup, ginger, and lemon rind create a warm, comforting dessert perfect for cozy gatherings or elegant end-of-meal treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Cut a slice off the bottom of each pear so they can stand upright.
- Place the pears, stem up, in a baking dish.
- Mix water, brown sugar, maple syrup, salt, ground ginger, and grated lemon rind to create the syrup.
- Pour the syrup mixture over the pears.
- Bake uncovered for about 1 1/2 hours, basting 3 or 4 times during baking.
- Serve the baked pears cool with the syrup drizzled over them.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup mixture. If you prefer a sweeter option, you can substitute honey for the maple syrup. Ensure the pears are ripe but firm for the best texture after baking. Basting the pears multiple times helps them absorb the syrup and achieve a beautiful caramelized finish.
Serving Suggestions
Baked pears make a delightful dessert on their own but can be served alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a more indulgent treat. For a unique pairing, serve them with a cheese platter featuring soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese. They also pair beautifully with the flavors of a Strawberry-Banana Tropical Punch for a refreshing beverage option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked pears can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Drizzle with additional syrup before serving for extra flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Pears contains roughly 169 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of fruit instead of pears?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like apples or quinces, but cooking times may vary. Apples will take slightly less time to bake, while quinces may need more, so adjust accordingly. The syrup will work well with these fruits, providing a similar sweet and spiced flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make the baked pears vegan, simply replace the honey in the syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar. This keeps the sweetness intact while adhering to vegan recipes. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
How do I know when the pears are done baking?
The pears are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. You should also see a nice caramelization on the exterior. Baking them for about 1 1/2 hours usually does the trick, but checking them periodically is a good practice to avoid overcooking.
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).