Caramelized Pears

Golden, glossy caramelized pears simmered in a brown sugar and maple syrup sauce with cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla — ready in about 30 minutes. Find step-by-step photos below and more recipe tips above.

📝 Ingredients

• 3 ripe but firm pears (Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett, halved lengthwise and cored)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 grams)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar (38 grams)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (30 ml )
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml )
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons water (60 ml )
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (5 ml )
• Toasted pecans or walnuts (for serving (optional))

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Halve the pears lengthwise and remove the cores with a melon baller or small spoon, leaving the stems intact for presentation. Brush the cut sides with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. 2Cook pears: Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and melt the butter. Place the pear halves cut-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes, without moving them, until the base is deeply golden.
3. 3Flip and cook: Carefully flip the pears and cook for another 2-3 minutes, adjusting the time depending on ripeness — softer pears need less time.
4. 4Remove pears and add the brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and water: Remove the pears from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Reduce heat to low and add the brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. 5Return the pears to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, spooning the caramel over the tops as they warm through. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The caramel will reduce and harden slightly as it cools if cooked too long.
6. 6Serve warm on their own or with vanilla ice cream, whipped mascarpone, Greek yogurt, oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Finish with toasted pecans or walnuts, if desired.