Ingredients
- 4 ripe and firm pears
- 2 tbs of melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
- 3 tablespoons of honey, plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ricotta, Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all of the pear halves in a single layer. A shallow baking dish works especially well because it lets some moisture evaporate and encourages the edges of the pears to caramelize.
- Prepare the Pears
- Wash and dry the pears, then cut each one in half lengthwise. You can leave the stems attached if you like how they look when serving. Use a small spoon or melon baller to remove the core and seeds, creating a shallow cavity for the walnut filling.
- Season the Pears
- Arrange the pears cut-side up in the prepared dish. Brush the exposed flesh with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with cinnamon, ginger, and a very small pinch of salt.
- Make the Honey-Walnut Filling
- In a small bowl, stir together the chopped walnuts, honey, and vanilla. Spoon the mixture into the centre of each pear half.
- Bake
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with the tip of a small knife but still hold their shape.
- Rest
- Let the pears rest for about five minutes after they come out of the oven.
- Serve
- Serve one or two pear halves per person, depending on the size of the pears. Drizzle with a little extra honey or spoon the warm juices from the baking dish over the top.
Notes
You can prepare the pears several hours ahead. Cut and core them, place them in the baking dish, and brush the cut surfaces with a little lemon juice to slow browning.
Prepare the walnut filling separately and refrigerate everything until you are ready to bake.
For the best texture and appearance, add the butter, spices, and filling just before the dish goes into the oven. That keeps the nuts from softening too much while they sit.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
