Ginger Scented Baked Pears (Printable Version)

Tender pears infused with ginger, cinnamon, and honey for a warm and comforting treat.

# Ingredient List:

→ Fruit

01 - 4 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), halved and cored

→ Flavorings

02 - 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated
03 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
04 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Sweetener

07 - 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
08 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar

→ Liquids

09 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
10 - 1/2 cup apple cider or water

→ Garnish (optional)

11 - 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
12 - Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream, for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - Arrange the pear halves, cut side up, in a baking dish just large enough to hold them snugly.
03 - In a small bowl, combine the grated ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, honey, and brown sugar. Mix well.
04 - Spoon the ginger mixture over the pears, then drizzle with lemon juice and apple cider (or water).
05 - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
06 - Remove the foil, baste the pears with the juices, and continue baking uncovered for another 10 minutes, until the pears are tender and golden.
07 - Serve warm, sprinkled with toasted nuts and a dollop of Greek yogurt or ice cream, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The ginger creates this gentle warmth that makes these feel like a hug in dessert form
  • Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible while these bake
02 -
  • Overripe pears will collapse in the oven so choose fruit that gives slightly when pressed but still feels firm
  • The baking time might vary depending on how ripe your pears are so check them after 25 minutes
03 -
  • Grate your ginger on a microplane for the finest texture and best flavor distribution
  • Use a pastry brush to baste the pears with the pan juices during the final baking