Save on Pinterest 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.
I love serving this warm dessert on cold nights; it always brings a cozy feeling to 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 5–7 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 18–20 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.
Save on Pinterest My family gathers eagerly around this dessert, sharing stories as we enjoy every warm bite together.
Notes
For extra crunch, add a handful of granola before serving. Substitute pecans for walnuts if preferred. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a glass of late-harvest Riesling or spiced chai tea.
Required Tools
Ovenproof skillet or baking dish, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 285, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 41 g, Protein 3 g.
Save on Pinterest Enjoy this cozy dish as a comforting end to your day or a delightful treat for guests.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I caramelize the pears?
Melt butter with brown sugar and maple syrup over medium heat, then add sliced pears with cinnamon and nutmeg. Cook gently until pears soften and caramelize, about 5–7 minutes.
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans work well as a substitute, providing a similar crunch and complementing the warm spices nicely.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve warm, topped with Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that balances the caramelized flavors.
- → Are there any dairy-free options?
Use plant-based butter and non-dairy yogurt or ice cream alternatives to enjoy a dairy-free variation without compromising flavor.
- → How can I add extra crunch to this dish?
Sprinkle a handful of granola on top just before serving for added texture and a nutty contrast.