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 dish reminds me of cozy autumn nights spent with loved ones around the fireplace.
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 recipe brings my family together especially on cold nights when desserts feel like a warm hug.
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). For dairy-free use plant-based butter and non-dairy yogurt or ice cream. Always double-check labels for potential allergens.
Pin it 
This bake is a perfect blend of sweet spice and crunch that’s sure to impress any dessert lover.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans make a delicious alternative, offering a slightly sweeter and buttery flavor. Almonds or hazelnuts can also be used for varied crunch and taste.
- → How do I ensure the pears caramelize evenly?
Cook the sliced pears gently in the maple syrup and butter mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until they soften and develop a golden caramel color before baking.
- → What spice variations work well in this dish?
Cinnamon and nutmeg provide warmth, but you can experiment with ground cloves, ginger, or allspice to customize the flavor profile.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized pear and walnut mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Bake shortly before serving to enjoy its fresh, warm texture.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve warm topped with Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. Pairing it with a late-harvest Riesling or spiced chai tea enhances the cozy experience.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, the dish is vegetarian and can be easily adapted to dairy-free by substituting plant-based butter and non-dairy toppings.