Cinnamon Honey Baked Pears

Introduction

These cinnamon honey baked pears are the perfect dessert or snack for any occasion. Tender pears are baked to perfection with a warm, fragrant blend of cinnamon and honey, creating a deliciously comforting treat. The addition of optional nuts and a dollop of Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or ice cream makes them even more indulgent. Whether you’re craving something sweet in the fall or just looking for a simple, healthy treat, these baked pears are a wonderful choice.

I first discovered this recipe one chilly autumn afternoon, when I was looking for something quick yet comforting. My family immediately fell in love with the dish. It’s so simple to prepare, but the flavors are incredible. The cinnamon and honey bring out the natural sweetness of the pears, while the soft texture of the fruit combined with the crunchy nuts adds a satisfying contrast. We’ve made this recipe multiple times since, and each time it feels like a cozy moment shared together.

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Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Honey Baked Pears

There’s so much to love about this recipe. Here are just a few reasons why this cinnamon honey baked pears recipe will quickly become a staple in your home:

• Simplicity: The recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, with only a few ingredients required. The hands-on time is minimal, making it perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
• Healthy yet indulgent: With the natural sweetness of the pears and the addition of honey, this dessert feels indulgent without being overly rich. You get the satisfying taste of something sweet, but with fewer calories than many traditional desserts.
• Customizable: You can add a variety of toppings to suit your taste. Whether you prefer crunchy nuts or a creamy dollop of Greek yogurt, the options are endless.
• Perfect for fall: The warm cinnamon and honey make this a perfect fall recipe, though it’s delightful year-round. It brings the comforting flavors of autumn into your home with ease.

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Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that combine beautifully to create a warm and flavorful dessert:

• 2 large ripe pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) (optional)
• Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or ice cream (for serving, optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it hot and ready for baking.

Prepare Pears:

1. Wash the pears thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
2. Cut the pears in half lengthwise.
3. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the core and seeds, creating a small cavity in each pear half.

Arrange in Baking Dish:

1. Place the pear halves, cut-side up, in a baking dish.
2. If the pears wobble, trim a small slice off the rounded side of each pear to make them more stable.

Make the Topping:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Drizzle the mixture evenly over the pears, making sure each half is coated with the warm, fragrant honey-cinnamon sauce.
3. If you’re using butter, add a small piece of unsalted butter into the cavity of each pear half.

Bake the Pears:

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the pears for 20 minutes.
2. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and caramelized.

Add Nuts (Optional):

If you’re adding chopped nuts, sprinkle them over the pears during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow them to toast and provide a satisfying crunch.

Serve:

Allow the pears to cool slightly before serving. Serve them warm, either on their own or with a dollop of Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch.

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Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories Per Serving)

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition information for each serving of cinnamon honey baked pears:

• Serving Size: 1 pear half (with topping and optional additions)
• Calories: 180–220 kcal (depending on whether you add butter and/or toppings)
• Sugar: 22g (naturally occurring from pears and honey)
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 7–9g (depending on butter and nuts used)
• Saturated Fat: 1–2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5–7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5–10mg (depending on whether butter is used)

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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How to Serve

There are several ways to enjoy these cinnamon honey baked pears, depending on your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Plain: For a light, healthy dessert, enjoy the pears on their own, fresh from the oven.
• With Greek Yogurt: Top with a spoonful of creamy Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast to the sweet pears.
• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a fluffy, indulgent treat.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic, comforting dessert.
• Chopped Nuts: If you love extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds over the top.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Ripe Pears: For the best texture and flavor, make sure your pears are ripe but not overly soft.
2. Add Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg, allspice, or cloves, to enhance the flavor profile.
3. Make Ahead: You can prep the pears and place them in the baking dish ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
4. Customize the Topping: If you like a little extra sweetness, add more honey or drizzle a little caramel sauce over the baked pears.
5. Serve with a Drink: These baked pears pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced cider or a warm chai latte for the perfect fall treat.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of pears?
Yes, you can use any pear variety, but Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal because they hold their shape well when baked.

2. Can I make these pears without butter?
Yes! The butter adds richness, but if you prefer, you can omit it or substitute with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil.

3. Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives for a different flavor.

4. Can I make these pears ahead of time?
You can prep the pears and store them in the fridge before baking. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.

5. How can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Simply omit the butter or use a plant-based butter substitute, and serve with dairy-free whipped cream or coconut yogurt.

6. What can I serve with these baked pears?
These pears are great on their own, but you can pair them with whipped cream, ice cream, or Greek yogurt for added richness.

7. How do I store leftover baked pears?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

8. Can I make this recipe for a large group?
Yes, simply double or triple the recipe and bake the pears in multiple baking dishes or one large dish.

9. What type of pears are best for baking?
Bosc and Anjou pears are perfect for baking due to their firmness, but Bartlett pears also work well if you prefer a softer texture.

10. Can I use other nuts in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or pistachios for a different texture and flavor.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon honey baked pears are the ultimate cozy treat. Whether you’re enjoying them as a simple dessert or serving them as part of a holiday meal, they are sure to impress. The sweet pears paired with warm spices and honey create a dessert that feels indulgent but is still healthy. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes, making it a versatile and delightful option for any time of year. Enjoy these pears with your favorite toppings and indulge in the cozy, comforting flavors of fall all year long.

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