Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts

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I absolutely adore the simplicity and elegance of Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts. This dessert is one of those rare dishes that strikes a perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. The pears become wonderfully tender in the oven, their natural sweetness deepening, while the honey caramelizes just slightly to create a glossy glaze. Add the crunch of toasted walnuts and a touch of spice, and you have something truly special—effortless but impressive.

I make this recipe often, especially in the cooler months when pears are at their best. It’s cozy, warming, and ideal for both dinner parties and quiet evenings. And the best part? It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free too. A recipe like this reminds me why I love working with simple, real ingredients—they shine when you let them.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts

These baked pears check all the boxes. They’re:

• Incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
• Naturally sweetened—no refined sugar needed.
• Elegant enough for entertaining, yet easy enough for a weeknight dessert.
• Comforting, warm, and packed with texture from the nuts and fruit.
• A great way to use up ripe pears in a way that feels gourmet.

Whether you’re aiming for a rustic winter dessert or just craving something wholesome and sweet, this one always delivers.

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What Kind of Pears Should I Use for Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts?

When it comes to baking, not all pears are created equal. I find that Bosc and Anjou pears work beautifully for this recipe. They hold their shape well in the oven and don’t turn mushy. Bosc pears have a slightly firmer texture and a subtle spice note, which pairs (no pun intended!) wonderfully with honey and walnuts. Anjou pears are juicier and a touch sweeter but still firm enough to withstand baking without collapsing.

Avoid overly ripe pears, as they’ll lose structure and can turn to mush. You want them just ripe—firm with a little give when gently pressed.

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Options for Substitutions

This dish is versatile, and you can easily tweak it depending on what you have on hand or dietary needs:

• Maple Syrup instead of Honey: If you’re vegan or simply prefer the earthy sweetness of maple, it’s a perfect stand-in.
• Pecans or Almonds instead of Walnuts: Any toasted nut adds a great crunch and flavor; pecans bring a buttery richness, while almonds give a more delicate texture.
• Spices: Feel free to swap cinnamon with cardamom or ground ginger for a twist.
• Dried Fruit: A sprinkle of chopped dried figs or cranberries adds a delightful chewy contrast.
• Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil: A dab on top before baking enhances richness, especially if you skip honey.

This recipe thrives on personal touches—don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

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Ingredients for Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in creating that perfect blend of sweetness, warmth, and texture.

• Pears – The star of the dish. Choose ripe but firm pears like Bosc or Anjou to ensure they bake without falling apart.
• Honey – Adds a natural sweetness and creates a glossy glaze as it caramelizes during baking.
• Walnuts – Provide crunch and a slightly bitter, earthy contrast to the soft, sweet pears.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the cozy flavor profile and adds gentle spice.
• Lemon Juice – Balances the sweetness and prevents the pears from browning before they go in the oven.
• Butter (optional) – A small pat melted on top of each pear enriches the sauce and deepens the flavor.
• Fresh Thyme or Rosemary (optional garnish) – Adds a subtle herbal note that elevates the dish, especially if serving to guests.
• Fresh or dried berries (optional) – A pop of color and tart contrast if you want to dress the plate.

Every component is thoughtfully chosen to complement the pear’s natural flavor, creating a beautifully balanced dessert.

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Step 1: Prep the Pears

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and peel the pears, then cut a thin slice off the bottom so they stand upright. Carefully scoop out the core from the bottom using a melon baller or small spoon, leaving the pears whole.

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Step 2: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the prepped pears in a baking dish just large enough to hold them snugly. This helps keep the honey and juices around the base of the fruit while baking.

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Step 3: Add Flavor

Drizzle the pears with lemon juice to prevent browning. Then spoon honey generously over each pear, allowing some to drip into the hollowed-out center. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and add a pat of butter on top of each pear if using.

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Step 4: Scatter Walnuts and Extras

Add walnuts to the dish, scattering them around the pears and inside the hollowed-out centers. If using berries or dried fruits, tuck them around the pears for added color and flavor.

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Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes, occasionally spooning the pan juices over the pears. They’re done when they’re tender when pierced with a knife and the honey has thickened into a syrup.

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Step 6: Serve Warm

Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the syrup and nuts from the dish over each pear. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy warm.

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How Long to Cook the Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts

These pears typically take 30 to 35 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C). The exact time will depend on the size and ripeness of your pears. You’ll know they’re ready when a sharp knife easily slides into the flesh with minimal resistance, but the pear still holds its shape. The honey should be bubbling and slightly thickened, coating the pears in a fragrant, golden syrup.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts

• Use a snug baking dish: This keeps the syrup close to the pears and prevents it from burning on the edges of a wide pan.
• Don’t overbake: Check early if your pears are small or very ripe—overbaking can make them collapse.
• Core carefully: Hollow from the bottom without cutting through the top, so the pears retain their elegant appearance.
• Spoon the juices: During baking, baste the pears once or twice with the honey syrup for a beautiful glaze.
• Toast the walnuts: For added depth, lightly toast the walnuts in a dry pan before baking them with the pears.
• Add a pinch of salt: Just a tiny sprinkle can enhance the sweetness and balance the flavors.

These thoughtful little steps make all the difference between good baked pears and great ones.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even with a simple recipe like this, a few missteps can affect the final result:

• Using overripe pears: They’ll turn to mush in the oven. Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to the touch.
• Skipping the lemon juice: It’s not just for color—it adds brightness that balances the rich honey.
• Overcrowding the pan: Pears need to stand upright and have room for the syrup to circulate.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Too little time leaves the pears hard, too much and they’ll collapse. Check at 30 minutes.
• Forgetting to baste: That beautiful glaze comes from spooning the pan juices over the pears during baking.
• Using raw walnuts: They can taste bitter if not lightly toasted or cooked in the syrup long enough.

Avoiding these will ensure your baked pears come out tender, flavorful, and visually stunning.

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What to Serve With Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts?

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cold, creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm pears and honey glaze.

Whipped Mascarpone

Lightly sweetened mascarpone with a hint of vanilla is a luxurious match.

Greek Yogurt

For a healthier pairing, plain or honey-drizzled Greek yogurt adds a tangy counterpoint.

Crispy Biscotti

Crunchy biscotti makes a great textural companion—especially with a cup of coffee.

Cinnamon-Spiced Granola

A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and warmth, especially if you’re turning this into a brunch dish.

Dark Chocolate Drizzle

A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the finished pears adds depth and drama.

Port or Dessert Wine

For an elevated experience, serve alongside a glass of port, muscat, or a honeyed dessert wine.

Toasted Brioche or Pound Cake

A slice of lightly toasted sweet bread soaks up all that syrup and turns this into a showstopper.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), store the baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or microwave for about 30–45 seconds until heated through.

For best results, spoon some of the syrup over them before reheating to keep the pears moist and flavorful. While freezing is technically possible, the texture will likely suffer—these are best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days.

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Estimated Nutrition

This estimate is based on one medium pear with honey and walnuts (not including optional additions like ice cream or mascarpone):

• Calories: ~220
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

This dessert is naturally gluten-free and full of fiber and antioxidants from the fruit and nuts. It’s a nourishing sweet treat that doesn’t rely on refined ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How ripe should the pears be for baking?

They should be ripe but firm—just starting to give slightly when pressed. Too ripe, and they’ll fall apart in the oven.

Can I make baked pears ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and reheat gently before serving. Just store them in the fridge in their syrup.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can be! Swap the honey for maple syrup and skip the butter or use plant-based butter.

Do I need to peel the pears?

Peeling is recommended for a softer texture and better flavor absorption, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer a rustic presentation.

What other nuts can I use instead of walnuts?

Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work well. Just make sure they’re toasted or baked long enough to bring out their flavor.

Can I serve this cold?

You can, but the flavors really shine when the pears are warm. If serving cold, add a creamy element like yogurt or whipped cream.

What if I don’t have an apple corer or melon baller?

Use a small spoon or paring knife to hollow out the bottom carefully. It’s a bit slower but still effective.

Can I add wine to the baking liquid?

Absolutely. A splash of white wine or dessert wine adds depth and a beautiful, aromatic syrup.

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Conclusion

Baked Pears with Honey & Walnuts is the kind of recipe that feels both nurturing and luxurious. It celebrates the natural sweetness of pears and elevates them with just a few thoughtful ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or curling up with a bowl after dinner, it’s the kind of dish that makes you appreciate how little it takes to create something truly special. I hope it becomes one of your go-to cozy favorites, just like it is for me.

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