Introduction
Cinnamon stuffed pears are a delightful fusion of sweet and spiced that elevate simple ingredients into an impressive dessert. This recipe honors the natural flavors of ripe pears, warming them with a rich cinnamon filling that is sure to enchant your taste buds.
Perfect for an intimate dinner or a cozy family gathering, these stuffed pears not only taste divine, but they also provide a beautiful presentation. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears
Select pears that are firm yet slightly ripe for the best flavor. Varieties such as Bartlett or Bosc work well, as they hold their shape when baked and their sweetness complements the cinnamon. - 1 cup brown sugar
Brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiciness of cinnamon. It also helps to create a syrupy sauce while the pears bake, enhancing the overall flavor. - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Cinnamon is the star of this recipe, contributing warmth and a fragrant aroma. Its earthy notes complement the sweet pears and bring a cozy feeling to the dish. - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Walnuts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts splendidly with the tender baked pears. They also add a rich, nutty flavor that rounds out the sweetness of the dish. - 1/4 cup raisins
Raisins introduce a chewy texture and additional natural sweetness. Their plumpness offers bursts of flavor in each bite, enhancing the overall eating experience. - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Melted butter not only helps the filling bind together but also enriches the flavors. It creates a luscious base for both the stuffing and the syrup that forms while baking. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract adds a subtle floral note that enhances the other flavors without overpowering them. It complements both the sweetness of the pears and the warmth of the spices. - Juice of 1 lemon
Lemon juice balances the sweetness while preventing the pears from browning. It stimulates the flavors, bringing brightness to each bite.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven is essential for achieving even baking and caramelization. A hot oven allows the pears to cook properly while helping the sugar develop a lovely, sticky glaze.
Step 2: Prepare the pears by halving them and removing the cores.
Carefully halving the pears and removing the cores creates a space to fill with the delightful mixture. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld into the pear during the baking process.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, walnuts, raisins, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
This mixture becomes the heart of your stuffed pears. The brown sugar and cinnamon will create a sweet-spicy filling, while the nuts and raisins add texture, creating a complex and delicious stuffing.
Step 4: Spoon the filling generously into each pear half.
Filling the pear halves with the mixture ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. Make sure to mound the filling a bit higher than the rim for a visually appealing presentation and a flavorful bite.
Step 5: Arrange the pears in a baking dish and pour a little water into the bottom.
Arranging the pears in a single layer helps them cook evenly, while adding water creates steam, maintaining moisture during baking. This step is key to achieving tender pears without drying them out.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pears are tender.
Baking allows the flavors to meld and the pears to soften. Check for tenderness by gently pressing the tops; they should yield slightly, indicating they are perfect for serving.
Step 7: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Allowing the pears to cool slightly helps settle the flavors and makes them easier to handle. This pause enhances the tasting experience, allowing you to savor the spiced aroma.
Choosing the Perfect Pears for Stuffing
Selecting the right pear is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your stuffed dish. Opt for varieties like Bosc or Bartlett, which hold their shape well during baking and offer a balanced sweetness.
Enhancing the Flavor Profile
You can elevate your cinnamon stuffed pears by incorporating additional spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a deeper flavor layer. A splash of bourbon or rum in the filling can also create a sophisticated twist that enhances the dessert's complexity.
Serving Suggestions for a Beautiful Presentation
Presentation is key with cinnamon stuffed pears. Consider garnishing with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serving on a vibrant plate alongside a sprinkle of toasted nuts adds visual appeal and enhances the overall dining experience.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would also work wonderfully as they provide a different flavor and texture while complementing the cinnamon filling.
What if my pears are too firm to stuff?
If your pears are too firm, consider baking them for a few extra minutes. Just ensure you keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, which can lead to mushy pears.
Is there an alternative to raisins?
Dried cranberries or chopped apricots can serve as excellent alternatives to raisins, adding a unique flavor while maintaining a chewy texture.
How can I make the filling less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, you can cut back on the brown sugar or mix in some unsweetened applesauce, which will maintain moisture and provide a hint of fruitiness.
What if the filling is too thick?
If your filling turns out too thick, you can add a little more melted butter or a splash of fruit juice to soften it, ensuring it's easy to spoon into the pear halves.
Can I make a larger batch for gatherings?
Certainly! Simply multiply the quantities of each ingredient by the number of servings you'd like. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate all the pears without overcrowding.
Conclusion
Cinnamon stuffed pears are a wonderful way to combine simple ingredients into a comforting and elegant dessert. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little creativity, you can impress your guests or treat your family.
Whether enjoyed warm on their own or paired with a scoop of ice cream, these pears are sure to be a hit. Dive into this recipe and savor the delightful blend of flavors it brings to your table.
Recipe Card
Delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 green onions chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp
- Melt the butter and sauté garlic
- Cook the shrimp
- Prepare the rice
- Assemble the stacks
- Garnish and serve
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
