Description
3 ripe pears, halved and cored
¼ cup rolled oats
¼ cup chopped walnuts
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp melted butter
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for serving
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix together oats, walnuts, honey, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Place the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
Spoon the walnut oat mixture evenly over each pear half, pressing it down slightly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pears are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 180 per serving Servings: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect baked pears every time.
- Prep the Pears: Wash 3 ripe pears thoroughly. Using a sharp knife and a spoon, carefully halve them lengthwise and scoop out the core and seeds to create a small well.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup rolled oats, ¼ cup chopped walnuts, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp melted butter, ½ tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated and clumping slightly.
- Assemble: Place the pear halves cut-side up in your parchment-lined dish. Generously spoon the oat mixture into each pear’s cavity, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes. The pears should be easily pierced with a fork, and the topping should be crisp and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the baked pears to cool for 5-10 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and prevents burning your mouth.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on their own, these baked pears can be elevated with simple pairings. For a decadent dessert, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a healthier breakfast or snack, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter. They also pair wonderfully with a sprinkle of granola for extra crunch or a light pour of custard.
How-to Summary
Halve and core ripe pears. Mix a simple filling of oats, walnuts, honey, butter, and warm spices. Spoon the filling over the pears and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until tender and golden. Serve warm with your choice of accompaniment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut? Absolutely. Almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts make excellent substitutes for walnuts. Chop them to a similar size for even baking.
How do I know when the pears are perfectly ripe? Look for pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure near the stem. They should be fragrant but still firm for best baking results.
Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes. Simply replace the honey with maple syrup and use a plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store cooled baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? You can prepare the filling and core the pears a few hours in advance. Keep them separate in the fridge and assemble just before baking for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Overripe Pears: Very soft pears will turn mushy during baking. Slightly firm pears hold their shape better.
- Overfilling the Pears: Piling the topping too high can cause it to spill over and burn. Keep the filling level with the top of the pear.
- Skipping the Pressing Step: Not pressing the oat mixture down can result in a loose, crumbly topping that falls off easily.
- Underbaking: Ensure the pears are tender all the way through. If needed, cover with foil and bake a few minutes longer if the topping is browning too quickly.
Conclusion
This baked pears recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an elegant and satisfying dish. With its warm spices, crunchy topping, and tender fruit, it’s a versatile treat perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can effortlessly master this healthy dessert. We encourage you to try it and explore the delicious serving suggestions to make it your own.