Baked Spiced Pears
Sweet baked pears infused with warm spices and drizzled with honey, topped with cream and ice cream for a comforting dessert perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel the pears and cut them in half lengthwise. Butter a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the pears with 1/2 cup sugar.
- Place the pears cut side down in the baking dish.
- Add seasonings (nutmeg and cloves) and drizzle with honey.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and pour heavy cream over the pears.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve hot, topped with ice cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half or a non-dairy milk can work in a pinch, but the texture will be different. Make sure to adjust the quantity of spices based on your preference; a little goes a long way. Don't forget to check on the pears during baking to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked pears warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. They also pair beautifully with a drizzle of additional honey or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture. This dish makes a fantastic dessert after a hearty meal or can be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast treat. For a complete experience, try serving alongside Tanya'S Raspberry Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick reheat, but be careful not to overdo it to retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Spiced Pears contains roughly 324 calories, with 4g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 13g 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 different types of pears for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of pears such as Bartlett or Comice, but make sure they are ripe for the best flavor and texture. Different varieties will yield slightly different tastes and sweetness levels, so feel free to experiment based on what you have available.
Is it necessary to peel the pears?
While peeling the pears enhances the texture and allows the spices to penetrate better, you can leave the skins on if you prefer. Just ensure to wash them thoroughly and adjust the baking time slightly, as unpeeled pears may require a little longer to become tender.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pears and arrange them in the baking dish up to a day in advance. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and follow the baking instructions. This can save time when hosting a dinner or special occasion.
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).