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 is a dessert I love making during cold months because it fills the house with a warm, inviting aroma and everyone enjoys the rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears: peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup walnut halves
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream: for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt and mix:
- 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.
- Cook pears:
- Add the sliced pears to the skillet. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg& and gently toss to coat. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pears begin to soften and caramelize.
- Add nuts and vanilla:
- Add the walnuts and vanilla extract, stirring gently to combine.
- Bake:
- Transfer the skillet or pour the mixture into a baking dish to the oven. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the walnuts are toasted.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Pin It This dish always brings my family together on chilly nights, creating warm memories filled with comfort and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as is or with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Variations
Add a handful of granola before serving for extra crunch or try swapping walnuts with pecans.
Pin It This maple-warm caramelized pear and walnut bake is sure to become a favorite cozy season dessert.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds work well and provide a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- → What is the best way to caramelize the pears?
Simmer the sliced pears gently in melted butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup until they soften and develop a golden caramel coating.
- → Is it necessary to peel the pears before cooking?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and natural color.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can caramelize the pears and nuts in advance, then finish baking just before serving for optimal warmth and freshness.
- → What do the spices add to the dish?
Cinnamon and nutmeg enrich the natural sweetness and add warm, inviting notes that complement the maple and pears perfectly.
- → Are there dairy-free alternatives for this dish?
Use plant-based butter and skip or replace yogurt or ice cream with non-dairy versions to make it dairy-free.