Pin It A comforting, cabin-style dessert featuring tender pears caramelized in maple syrup, baked with toasted walnuts and a hint of spice — perfect for chilly evenings.
This bake quickly became a family favorite during autumn, bringing warmth and sweet aromas into our home.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
- Caramel & Sweeteners: 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- Nuts: 3/4 cup walnut halves
- Spices & Flavorings: 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Garnish (optional): Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2:
- In a large ovenproof skillet or baking dish, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and maple syrup& stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbling, about 2 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add the sliced pears to the skillet. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg, and gently toss to coat. Cook for 57 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears begin to soften and caramelize.
- Step 4:
- Add the walnuts and vanilla extract, stirring gently to combine.
- Step 5:
- Transfer the skillet (or pour the mixture into a baking dish) to the oven. Bake for 1820 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the walnuts are toasted.
- Step 6:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Pin It This dish frequently brings the family together, creating cherished moments during colder nights.
Notes
For extra crunch, add a handful of granola before serving. Substitute pecans for walnuts if preferred. Delicious paired with a glass of late-harvest Riesling or spiced chai tea.
Required Tools
Ovenproof skillet or baking dish, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon.
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (walnuts) and dairy (butter, optional yogurt or ice cream). Always double-check labels for potential allergens.
Pin It Enjoy this warm dessert after any meal for a perfect cozy ending.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I caramelize the pears properly?
Cook sliced pears in a mixture of butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup over medium heat until they soften and begin to turn golden, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans work well as a substitute, providing a similar crunch and flavor profile.
- → What spices complement the flavors best?
Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, enhancing the natural sweetness of the pears and maple syrup.
- → How should I serve this dish?
Serve warm, optionally topped with Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream to add creaminess and balance the caramelized flavors.
- → Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and non-dairy yogurt or ice cream to accommodate dairy-free preferences without sacrificing flavor.