If you are searching for an irresistible dessert that feels cozy and elegant all at once, the Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe is an absolute must-try. These baked pears are tender and juicy, stuffed with a flavorful mixture of oats, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon, all brought together beautifully by real maple syrup. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome finish to a dinner or an inviting treat to share with friends, this dessert is a warm hug on a plate and a total crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe so delightful is how simple and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in constructing the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors.
- 4 medium pears (Bartlett, Anjou or Bosc): Choose firm yet ripe pears for the best texture and easy baking.
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (not instant oats): Adds a chewy texture and wholesome crunch.
- 1/4 cup pecans (or walnuts, coarsely chopped): The nuts bring that irresistible crunch and nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (coarsely chopped, optional): A pop of tartness and bright color to contrast the nuts and pears.
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (plus more to sprinkle): Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the filling and the finished dish.
- 2 Tbsp real maple syrup: The star sweetener that infuses the dish with natural, rich flavor.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted, plus more to grease pan): Butter ensures moistness and helps the topping brown beautifully.
How to Make Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Place the rack in the center for even heat circulation. Lightly butter the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish to prevent sticking and to lend that subtle buttery flavor to the pears as they bake.
Step 2: Combine the Filling Ingredients
In a small bowl, mix the rolled oats, coarsely chopped pecans, cranberries if using, and cinnamon. Drizzle the mixture with real maple syrup and melted butter, then stir gently to create a well-coated, sticky filling that will bake into a caramelized topping inside the pear cavities.
Step 3: Prepare the Pears for Stuffing
Slice each pear in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the seeds using a teaspoon or a melon baller. To ensure your pears sit steadily in the baking dish without wobbling, slice a thin, flat piece from the back of each half. This also exposes more of the pear’s inner flesh to the sweet filling.
Step 4: Fill and Arrange the Pears
Place the pear halves cut side up in the buttered casserole dish. Spoon the oat-pecan mixture evenly into each cavity. For an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal, lightly sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top of each filled pear half.
Step 5: Bake Until Tender and Golden
Bake the pears uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. The goal is a tender pear that still holds its shape perfectly, with a golden, fragrant topping that offers a blend of chewiness and crunch. The timing will depend on your pears’ size and firmness, so keep an eye on them after 25 minutes.
How to Serve Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe, sprinkle with a pinch of finely chopped fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a spoonful of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast between warm and cool textures.
Side Dishes
This baked pear dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad topped with walnuts and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing counterpoint. It also complements brunch dishes, such as pancakes or waffles, making it a versatile treat beyond just dessert time.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming way to serve, try presenting each pear half on a small dessert plate with a drizzle of caramel sauce around the edges. You can also stuff the pears ahead of time and bake them in individual ramekins for an elegant single-serving presentation that impresses guests at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover baked pears, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to bring them to room temperature or gently reheat before serving for the best experience.
Freezing
Freezing baked pears is possible but not ideal, as the texture can shift. If you must freeze, cool the pears completely, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the pears gently in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This will help them regain that freshly baked warmth without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make wonderful substitutes if pecans aren’t available. Just chop them coarsely to maintain that satisfying crunch.
Are canned pears a good alternative?
For this recipe, fresh pears are best because canned pears tend to be too soft and may turn mushy when baked further. Fresh pears hold their texture and absorb the flavors beautifully.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and ensure your maple syrup is pure and vegan-friendly. It’s an easy tweak that keeps the flavors intact.
How do I know when the pears are done baking?
The pears should be tender enough to pierce easily with a fork but still hold their shape without falling apart. The topping should be golden and slightly crisp.
Can I add other dried fruits to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with dried cherries, apricots, or raisins alongside or instead of cranberries for different flavor profiles.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe is one of those special desserts that feels both indulgent and wholesome, with an effortless elegance that makes it perfect for almost any occasion. Once you try it, those tender pears and the crunchy, maple-sweet topping will no doubt become a favorite of yours to revisit again and again. Give it a go—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Maple Pecan Baked Pears Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 stuffed pear halves
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Maple Pecan Baked Pears, a cozy and delicious dessert featuring juicy pears filled with a spiced mixture of oats, pecans, dried cranberries, and maple syrup, then baked to tender perfection. This recipe is perfect for a wholesome treat that combines natural sweetness with a crunchy, nutty filling.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 4 medium pears (Bartlette, Anjou, or Bosc)
Filling
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (not instant oats)
- 1/4 cup pecans (or walnuts, coarsely chopped)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (coarsely chopped, optional)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (plus more for sprinkling)
- 2 Tbsp real maple syrup
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted, plus more to grease pan)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375ËšF (190ËšC) with a rack positioned in the center. Butter the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine rolled oats, coarsely chopped pecans, dried cranberries if using, and cinnamon. Drizzle in the maple syrup and melted butter, then stir well to create a cohesive filling mixture.
- Prepare the pears: Cut each pear in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds from each half. To keep the pears stable during baking, slice a thin piece from the back of each pear half to create a flat surface so they won’t roll around in the baking dish.
- Stuff the pears: Arrange the pear halves in the buttered casserole dish flat side down. Divide the filling evenly among the pear cavities. Lightly sprinkle additional cinnamon over the pears to enhance the spiced flavor.
- Bake the pears: Place the casserole dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Baking time may vary depending on the size and firmness of your pears.
Notes
- Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to ensure they hold their shape when baked.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred or not available.
- Dried cranberries add a nice tart contrast but can be omitted if desired.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated before serving.
