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Baked Pears with Walnuts and Honey: A Delightful Autumn Treat

As the leaves turn golden and the air chills, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm dessert that encapsulates the essence of autumn. Baked pears with walnuts and honey not only satisfy the sweet tooth but also provide a delightful way to indulge in seasonal produce. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a family gathering, a casual dinner with friends, or a special evening with a loved one.

The Perfect Pears

When selecting pears for baking, it’s best to choose firm varieties such as Bosc or Anjou. These pears hold their shape during the baking process and provide a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweetness of honey and the crunch of walnuts. Look for pears that are ripe but not overly soft, ensuring they will caramelise beautifully in the oven.

Health Benefits

Pears are not only delicious but also pack a nutritional punch. They are a good source of dietary fibre, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. By pairing them with walnuts, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, and a drizzle of honey, this dessert becomes a wholesome option that still delivers on flavour.

Ingredients

To create Baked Pears with Walnuts and Honey, you will need:

• 4 ripe but firm pears
• 100g walnuts, roughly chopped
• 4 tablespoons of honey (rose or wildflower varieties work particularly well)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1 handful of fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
• A pinch of salt
• Greek yoghurt or mascarpone, for serving (optional)

Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Prepare the Pears: Wash the pears thoroughly. Halve them lengthwise and remove the cores using a melon baller or a spoon. If you’d like, you can leave the skin on for added texture and colour.

3. Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, honey, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the walnuts are well coated with honey and spices.

4. Stuff the Pears: Place the halved pears in a baking dish, cut side up. Spoon the walnut mixture generously into the hollow of each pear half. If you’re using herbs, sprinkle them on top for an aromatic touch.

5. Bake: Drizzle a bit of honey over the top of the stuffed pears and cover the dish with aluminium foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the topping is golden.

6. Serve: Once baked, remove the pears from the oven and let them cool slightly. They can be served warm on their own or with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or mascarpone, elevating the dish with a creamy contrast to sweetness.

Tips for Enhancement

For an added flavour boost, consider experimenting with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar before baking. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche can also create a delightful pairing with warm baked pears.

Conclusion

Baked pears with walnuts and honey is a simple yet sophisticated dessert that perfectly captures the spirit of autumn. Its warm, comforting flavours make it a fantastic end to any meal. Easy enough for a weeknight treat yet elegant enough for entertaining, this dish is sure to become a staple in your autumn repertoire. Enjoy it with loved ones, and relish the delightful tastes of the season.

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