Espresso Pears
Elegant and flavorful, these espresso-poached pears feature rich coffee notes with a hint of lemon zest, perfect for a sophisticated dessert or an indulgent treat. Suits coffee lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stand the peeled and cored pears upright in a saucepan that will hold them snugly.
- Add the espresso coffee and enough water (about 2 cups) to cover the pears completely, then add the light brown sugar.
- Bring the coffee mixture to a boil; cover, reduce heat to low and boil gently until pears are tender, about 30 minutes.
- Remove the pears from the liquid and arrange them in a serving bowl.
- Boil the remaining liquid until it is reduced to 1 cup; stir in the grated lemon rind and pour the mixture over the pears.
- Cool the pears.
- Add the Kahlua to the cooled dish and serve with optional cookies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a dark roast espresso or even a coffee blend with chocolate notes. If you don’t have Kahlua, you can substitute with a coffee liqueur or omit it entirely for a non-alcoholic version. If Bosc pears are unavailable, Anjou or Bartlett pears can work as alternatives, though they may cook differently.
Serving Suggestions
These Espresso Pears are delightful on their own or served over vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or dessert wine. For a fuller dessert experience, serve alongside the optional cookies, which can be a nice contrast to the warm pears. This dish is perfect for a cozy gathering or as a sweet ending to a dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or espresso to prevent drying out. You can also enjoy them cold, drizzled with the reduced espresso sauce.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Espresso Pears contains roughly 920 calories, with 16g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 859mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of coffee instead of espresso?
While espresso provides a rich flavor, you can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute. Just ensure it is concentrated enough to infuse the pears with flavor. The cooking time may remain the same, but taste the syrup to adjust sweetness if needed.
How do I know when the pears are properly cooked?
The pears are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. A good test is to start checking around the 20-minute mark to ensure they retain their shape.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pears and the espresso reduction a day ahead. Store them separately; keep the pears in an airtight container and the sauce in a jar. Just reheat the sauce before serving and drizzle over the pears for a fresh presentation.
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).