These Maple Vanilla Pears smell like a warm fall afternoon. The sweet maple and soft vanilla melt right into the pears. It’s simple, cozy, and tastes like comfort in a bowl.

I made these once when I had a few ripe pears and didn’t want them to go to waste. I added a drizzle of maple syrup and a touch of vanilla, and wow—it turned into something special. It’s now one of my favorite quick desserts.

They’re soft, golden, and lightly sweet. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a little snack. Let’s make them together—you’ll see how easy and comforting they are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Elegant: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and an effortless preparation process.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect as a standalone treat or served with ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt.
Healthy-ish Indulgence: Made with natural sweeteners like maple syrup and loaded with fruit.
Customizable Toppings: Add nuts, dried fruit, or even chocolate chips for a personal twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dessert or a holiday centerpiece, this recipe fits the bill.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make Maple Vanilla Pears, gather these tools for a hassle-free cooking experience:

Oven: Preheated to 375°F (190°C) for even baking.
Baking Dish: Large enough to hold all the pear halves without crowding.
Small Mixing Bowl: For whisking the glaze.
Whisk or Fork: To combine the ingredients smoothly.
Aluminum Foil: Ensures the pears stay moist while baking.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious dessert:

4 Ripe Pears (Bartlett or Anjou): Halved and cored for the perfect base.
1/4 Cup Pure Maple Syrup: For natural sweetness and a rich caramel-like flavor.
2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted): Adds a silky texture and depth of flavor.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Brings a cozy, spicy undertone.
1/4 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: Enhances the warmth of the cinnamon.
1/4 Cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans (Optional): Adds crunch and a nutty contrast.
1/4 Cup Dried Cranberries or Raisins (Optional): For a pop of tartness.
Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream (Optional): A classic accompaniment for a decadent finish.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

Add a Boozy Twist: Drizzle with a splash of bourbon or rum before baking.
Try Different Fruits: Swap pears for apples, peaches, or even bananas.
Go Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle granola or crushed cookies for texture.
Experiment with Spices: Include ground ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a unique flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pears

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Halve the pears and remove the cores using a spoon or melon baller.
Arrange the pear halves in a baking dish, cut side up.

2. Make the Maple Vanilla Glaze

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Maple syrup
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon and nutmeg
Mix until well combined.

3. Drizzle and Top

Generously spoon the glaze over the pear halves, ensuring each one is coated.
If using, sprinkle the nuts and dried cranberries on top.

4. Bake the Pears

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly.

5. Serve Warm

Transfer the pears to serving plates.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.

Serving and Decoration

Maple Vanilla Pears are a showstopper dessert that deserves an equally elegant presentation:

Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle with powdered sugar, drizzle with extra maple syrup, or add a sprig of fresh mint.
Pairings: Serve alongside hot coffee, tea, or a dessert wine like Moscato or Riesling.
Perfect for Breakfast: Top with Greek yogurt and granola for a luxurious morning treat.

Storing Maple Vanilla Pears

This recipe is just as delicious when reheated or served cold. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a microwave or oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Freezer: While fresh is best, you can freeze baked pears for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories	Fat (g)	Carbs (g)	Protein (g)	Fiber (g)
190	7	32	1	4

(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on toppings and specific ingredients used.)

FAQs for Maple Vanilla Pears

Can I use canned or frozen pears?

Fresh pears work best for this recipe as they hold their shape and texture during baking. Canned or frozen pears may become too soft.

What’s the best way to core pears?

A melon baller or small spoon is ideal for removing the core without wasting any fruit.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and bake the pears up to 1 day in advance. Reheat them gently in the oven before serving.

How do I know when the pears are done?

Pierce with a fork—the pears should be tender but not mushy.