Introduction
As days shorten and a crispness fills the air, our kitchens call for warmth and comfort. Few dishes capture this sentiment like Maple Cinnamon Baked Pear Slices. This isn’t just dessert; it’s a gentle hug in a bowl, marrying the delicate sweetness of ripe pears with pure maple syrup and fragrant cinnamon. Effortlessly elegant and simple, it offers a delightful respite, proving satisfying flavors often come from the simplest ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, an elevated dessert, or a healthy snack, it promises to fill your home with an inviting aroma.
Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, gather:
* 4 medium ripe but firm pears (Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett)
* 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A Amber Rich)
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
* Pinch of sea salt
* Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice
Ensure pears are fragrant and slightly yielding, but not overly soft. Quality maple syrup and vanilla truly enhance this understated recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Wash pears, halve lengthwise, and core. Leave skins on or peel. Slice each half into roughly 1/2-inch thick wedges. Arrange slices in a single layer in the baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Add lemon juice if using. Pour this mixture evenly over the pears, coating each piece. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until pears are tender and the sauce is slightly thickened and caramelized. Your kitchen will be filled with an enticing aroma!
Expert Tips
Choosing the right pear variety is key; Bosc and Anjou hold shape best, while Bartletts soften beautifully. Don’t overcrowd the dish; this allows pears to roast, developing lovely caramelized edges. If pears brown too quickly, loosely tent with foil. For added flavor and crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans during the last 10 minutes of baking. Serve warm, perhaps with vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or homemade granola. Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days, reheating gently.
Variations
This recipe is a versatile canvas. For extra spice, add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, ground ginger, or cardamom to the maple-butter mixture. For a tart counterpoint, stir in a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apricots before baking. For a richer profile, substitute a tablespoon of brown sugar for some maple syrup and add a splash of bourbon or rum. To make it dairy-free, swap butter for a plant-based alternative or coconut oil. Experiment with other fruits like apples or firm peaches. Adjust cinnamon to your taste, from subtle hint to bold statement.
Conclusion
Maple Cinnamon Baked Pear Slices truly embody wholesome comfort and understated elegance. With its captivating aroma and tender, spice-infused sweetness, this dish is more than a recipe; it’s an experience designed to bring warmth and joy. Whether for a virtuous breakfast, a soothing dessert, or a moment of indulgence, it proves uncomplicated ingredients create profoundly satisfying flavors. Embrace the simple pleasure of baking these golden pears and let maple and cinnamon transform your kitchen into a culinary haven. Happy baking!
