Name: Delightful Brown Sugar Baked Pears with Pecans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 medium pears, firm and not too ripe; 1 Tbs. coconut oil, melted; 1/4 cup. light brown sugar; 2 Tbs. honey, preferably local; 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract; 1 tsp. ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup. pecans, roughly chopped; A pinch of sea salt

As the weather turns crisp and the leaves start to dapple the ground with shades of gold and crimson, it’s time to embrace the comforting flavors of fall and winter. One of my favorite desserts that seems to perfectly encapsulate this cozy atmosphere is Brown Sugar Baked Pears with Pecans.

This delightful treat combines the sweetness of ripe pears, the warm embrace of cinnamon, and the crunch of fresh pecans, creating a dish that is as easy to make as it is divine to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, or simply indulging on a quiet evening, this dessert will make your heart sing.

More Fall Desserts:

Why This Recipe is Special

What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients—pears, brown sugar, honey, and pecans—you can create a gourmet dessert that feels utterly indulgent. It’s also incredibly adaptable; you can serve it as a warm dessert after dinner, or as a beautiful breakfast option paired with yogurt or vanilla bean ice cream. And let’s not forget the health benefits of pears! Packed with dietary fiber and vitamin C, they’re not just tasty but good for you too!

The Appeal of Brown Sugar Baked Pears

Baked pears are tender, juicy, and caramelized to perfection. The brown sugar and honey create a lovely glaze that drips into the dish, while the cinnamon introduces warmth, grounding this sweet treat. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch from the pecans, which pair beautifully with the soft, baked fruit. Plus, the combination of flavors evokes all the best feelings of the season.

Ready to Dive In? Here’s How to Make it!

Now, let’s get into making this scrumptious dessert at home!

Ingredients

4 medium pears, firm and not too ripe
1 Tbs. coconut oil, melted
1/4 cup. light brown sugar
2 Tbs. honey, preferably local
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 cup. pecans, roughly chopped
A pinch of sea salt

Step-By-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Halve the pears and remove the core with a small spoon.

3. Transfer the prepped pears to a large casserole dish.

4. Toss the pears with coconut oil, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, pecans, and salt.

5. Using your hands, gently massage the pears until lightly coated with the oil and sugar mixture.

6. Transfer into the oven and bake until the pears are golden and fork-tender, approximately 25-30 minutes.

7. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Want to switch things up? Try swapping out the pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts. You can also add a hint of nutmeg for an even more aromatic flavor. And for a little zing, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the mixture before baking—it complements the sweetness of the pears perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

For an even more decadent experience, serve your baked pears with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The melting creaminess of the ice cream balances the warm, caramelized flavors of the pears beautifully. You could also consider adding a drizzle of extra honey or a sprinkle of whipped cream on top for that extra touch of indulgence.

Tips & Tricks

For the creaminess of your baked pears, ensure they are firm but ripe. Overripe pears can become mushy and lose their appeal. You also want to pay attention to your baking time; every oven varies, so keep an eye on your pears to make sure they don’t overcook.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t rush the baking process. It’s crucial to let the pears become golden and fork-tender rather than cooking them too quickly. Also, make sure to coat them evenly in the oil and sugar mixture; you want every bite to be filled with flavor!

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments!