Baked Pears with Walnuts & Maple Syrup

So you want dessert that feels elegant, but you also don’t want to wrestle with a cake or a complicated pastry. Enter Baked Pears with Walnuts & Maple Syrup—warm, soft pears, nutty crunch, and a drizzle of sweetness that makes you feel like a chef without the stress.

This recipe is perfect for cozy nights, brunches, or whenever you need something sweet and slightly sophisticated without committing to sugar overload.

Why This Recipe Is Awesome

• Minimal effort, maximum impact. Slice, stuff, bake, done.
• Naturally sweet. Pears + maple syrup = perfect harmony.
• Warm and comforting. Cinnamon + baked fruit = cozy vibes.
• Elegant presentation. Looks fancy, requires zero skill.
• Flexible. Add nuts, raisins, or a scoop of yogurt if you like.

Honestly, this is the kind of dessert that makes people say, “Did you make this?” and you answer casually: “Yeah, no big deal.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pears

• 4 ripe but firm pears – Bosc or Bartlett work great.
• ½ cup chopped walnuts – Toasted for extra flavor.
• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup – Drizzle like a pro.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – Optional, but highly recommended.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – Optional, adds depth.
• Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.

Optional Extras

• A few raisins or dried cranberries
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for serving
• A sprinkle of nutmeg

Pro tip: Don’t pick overripe pears—they’ll get mushy during baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment.
2. Prepare the pears.
   Slice pears in half lengthwise and scoop out the core. You want a small cavity for filling.
3. Mix the filling.
   In a small bowl, combine walnuts, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla (if using), and a pinch of salt. Optional: add raisins or dried cranberries.
4. Stuff the pears.
   Spoon the walnut mixture into the center of each pear half. Press gently so it stays put.
5. Arrange in baking dish.
   Place pears cut side up. Drizzle any remaining maple syrup over the top.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
   Pears should be tender but not mushy, and walnuts lightly toasted.
7. Serve warm.
   Optionally, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon if you’re feeling fancy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using overripe pears.
  They’ll turn into mush and lose shape.
• Skipping the salt.
  Sweet + fruit = better with just a pinch of salt.
• Overbaking.
  Pears should be tender, not mushy. Keep an eye on them.
• Not prepping the filling properly.
  Toss the nuts with syrup and spices first, so flavor is consistent.
• Ignoring presentation.
  Baking cut-side up keeps filling in place and looks prettier.

Alternatives & Substitutions

• Nut-free version:
  Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of walnuts.
• Extra sweetness:
  Drizzle with a little honey if you prefer.
• Different spices:
  Try cardamom, ginger, or allspice for a twist.
• Add protein:
  Serve with Greek yogurt or a dollop of protein-rich ricotta.
• Vegan version:
  Already vegan if using maple syrup. Add coconut cream instead of yogurt.

IMO, cinnamon + walnuts + maple syrup is the classic combo—can’t go wrong.

FAQ (Because You’re Curious)

Can I use canned pears?
Technically yes, but fresh pears taste better and hold shape.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.

Are these kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Sweet, soft, and naturally fruity—kids usually love them.

Can I use pecans instead of walnuts?
Totally. Pecans are slightly sweeter and softer, great alternative.

How should I store leftovers?
Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Can I add chocolate?
Sure! A few dark chocolate shavings on top before serving adds flair.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Pears with Walnuts & Maple Syrup are proof that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated or loaded with sugar. They’re warm, cozy, naturally sweet, and elegant enough to serve for brunch or a fancy dinner.

Bake a batch. Serve warm. Sprinkle cinnamon. Add yogurt if you like.
Now sit back, take a bite, and enjoy a dessert that’s simple, indulgent, and secretly healthy.