Maple Baked Pears Citrus Spice

Maple Baked Pears bring out the beauty of ripe fruit with almost no effort at all. A drizzle of pure maple syrup, warm seasonal spices, and a hint of orange transform everyday pears into a restaurant-worthy dessert. Whether you are seeking a cozy treat for fall or an elegant finale for a dinner party, this recipe always delivers.

I first baked these pears on a chilly Sunday afternoon when we had friends drop by unexpectedly. The aroma of maple and spice always takes me right back to that laughter-filled kitchen.

Ingredients

• Pears: Choose ripe yet firm pears such as Bosc or Anjou for best texture when baked. Avoid overripe pears which will break down too much
• Orange zest: Fresh zest adds brightness and really lifts the flavor. Always zest before you juice
• Pure maple syrup: Look for 100 percent pure maple syrup for natural sweetness and deep caramel notes
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps with basting. For dairy free choose coconut oil
• Fresh orange juice: A splash balances the sweetness and helps create a glossy syrup
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a cozy aroma. Use Ceylon cinnamon if you can
• Ground nutmeg: Adds complexity and fragrance. Always grate fresh for the best result if possible
• Ground ginger: Just a pinch gives gentle heat and depth
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Toasted nuts give crunch and a perfect finish. Look for nuts with no bitterness. You can omit for nut free
• Greek yogurt crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream: These creamy toppings complement the baked pears and add a luxurious finish. Choose full fat for extra indulgence

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Let it fully heat for even baking

Prepare the Pears:

Slice pears in half and remove the cores gently using a melon baller or small spoon. Leave stems on for visual charm if you like

Arrange in Baking Dish:

Place pears cut side up in a snug single layer in your baking dish. This helps them cook evenly and bathe in the syrup

Make the Maple Mixture:

In a small bowl whisk maple syrup melted butter orange juice orange zest cinnamon nutmeg and ginger until well combined

Pour and Baste:

Spoon the maple mixture evenly over the pears making sure to coat the cut sides. If any mixture pools in the dish just scoop it over the fruit

Bake Until Tender:

Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes basting with juices every ten minutes using a spoon or pastry brush. Pears are ready when soft and golden but still hold their shape

Serve with Toppings:

Transfer pears to plates and drizzle with pan syrup. Sprinkle toasted nuts and add a dollop of yogurt or ice cream for a truly special treat

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The best part for me is the smell of orange zest meeting maple syrup while the pears bubble away in the oven. My family cannot resist sneaking in for a spoonful of syrup straight from the pan.

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They reheat gently in the microwave or in a low oven. If you plan to make ahead for company let them come to room temperature before serving to regain their flavor

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the unsalted butter for melted coconut oil to make this vegan. You can use honey if you do not have maple syrup but stick with maple for the unique taste. Any firm pear such as Bartlett or D’Anjou works but avoid very soft varieties as they will collapse when baked

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pears plain or dressed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for something extra special. For brunch try them over warm oatmeal or tucked next to a slice of spice cake. A sprinkle of granola adds a satisfying crunch

Cultural and Historical Roots

Baked fruit desserts have roots in many cultures as a way to celebrate seasonal produce. This version nods to the flavors of New England where maple syrup is a time honored staple. Spiced baked pears bring comforting tradition to any table

Seasonal Adaptations

Use apples or quinces when pears are not in season Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract for grown up flair Top with pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries in winter for color and tang

Success Stories

I have served these at fall and winter potlucks and they always go quickly. Even self proclaimed fruit skeptics come back for seconds. Once my niece asked for these instead of birthday cake a request I now happily honor every year

Freezer Meal Conversion

Baked pears freeze surprisingly well. Arrange cooled pears in a single layer on a tray freeze until solid then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen covered in a warm oven until heated through

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Enjoy every spoonful of Maple Baked Pears: a dessert that always warms hearts and brightens the table.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of pears work best for baking?

Bosc or Anjou pears are ideal as they hold their shape when baked and absorb flavors well.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Use melted coconut oil in place of butter and choose dairy-free yogurt or ice cream for serving.

→ How do I add more crunch to the dessert?

Sprinkle toasted nuts or granola over the baked pears before serving for extra texture.

→ What’s the best way to serve baked pears?

Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or ice cream.

→ Are there flavor variations I can try?

Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to the maple glaze for added depth and complexity.

→ Is this dessert suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any toppings used are also gluten-free.