Save 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 bake has become a go-to treat on chilly nights when I crave something warm and cozy yet easy to prepare.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt Butter & Mix Sweeteners:
- 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.
- Caramelize 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 Walnuts & 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.
Save We always enjoy this dessert as a family especially on weekend evenings when everyone gathers around the table.
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.
Save 
This caramelized pear and walnut bake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and warm spice sure to comfort you all season long.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I caramelize the pears without burning?
Gently cook sliced pears with butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup over medium heat. Stir frequently and monitor heat to prevent burning while allowing pears to soften and caramelize evenly.
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans or hazelnuts work well as alternatives, providing similar texture and a complementary nutty flavor.
- → What spices enhance the flavor best?
Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the sweetness of maple syrup and pears without overpowering.
- → Is it better to serve warm or at room temperature?
Serving warm heightens the comforting aroma and enhances the melty texture, especially alongside a cooling dollop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt.
- → How can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter for caramelizing and non-dairy yogurt or ice cream for serving to keep flavors rich and creamy without dairy.
- → What beverage pairs well with this dessert?
A late-harvest Riesling or spiced chai tea complements the warm spices and sweet maple notes wonderfully.