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.
I enjoy making this dish on cold nights when I want something warm and comforting yet not too heavy.
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 dish always brings my family together around the table especially during cold autumn nights.
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 easy dessert brings warmth and delight to any meal and is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?
Yes, pecans can be used as a delicious alternative to walnuts, adding a slightly different texture and flavor.
- → What is the best way to caramelize the pears?
Sauté the sliced pears in melted butter with brown sugar and maple syrup over medium heat until they soften and begin to turn golden.
- → Can I prepare this bake dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt or ice cream for serving to make it dairy-free.
- → How can I add extra crunch to this dish?
Add a handful of granola on top just before serving to introduce a delightful crunchy texture.
- → Which beverages pair best with this warm pear dish?
Late-harvest Riesling or spiced chai tea complement the sweet and spiced elements beautifully.