Baked Pears

In the fall when pears are at their peak, this quick and simple baked preparation creates its own sauce for the pears and has an elegant presentation. You’ll learn to peel and core the pears, then bake them with maple syrup and butter until tender.

Serves 1 | Active Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

Preparing to bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 1: Preparing to bake

Step 2: Preparing the pears for baking

2 ripe pears, peeled, halved and cored
2 to 3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Cut the pears in half lengthwise and remove the core. Cut a small slice from the rounded side of the pears so that they sit flat. Arrange in a gratin dish or shallow, ovenproof dish. Drizzle with maple syrup and dot with butter.

Step 3: Baking the pears

Bake for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and turn the pear halves so they are cut-side down. Allow to cool to warm or room temperature.

Step 4: Serving

Pumpkin seeds, for garnish
Sour cream, for garnish
Mint or sage sprigs, optional, for garnish
Pound cake, for serving

Serve one half per person, cut-side up. Spoon some of the juices from the dish over the pear. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and top with a dollop of sour cream. Add the herb sprig and arrange the pound cake around the pear and serve immediately.

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