Pears are often considered the unsung heroes of the fruit world, but they’re incredibly versatile when it comes to baking. From sweet and tender to tangy and crunchy, pears can add a depth of flavor and texture to any dessert. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious pear dessert recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
Whether you prefer classic combinations like pear and chocolate or innovative pairings like pear and cardamom, there’s something for everyone in this collection. And the best part? These desserts are perfect for any time of year, from cozying up with a warm cobbler on a chilly winter evening to serving a refreshing sorbet at a summer gathering.
So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in some delicious pear-fect treats!
Spiced Pear and Almond Tart
Warm up with a sweet and aromatic tart that combines the flavors of pears, almonds, and spices. This Spiced Pear and Almond Tart is perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together sliced pears, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Arrange pear mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the pears.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges to seal.
7. Brush with melted butter and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caramelized Pear Upside-Down Cake
This moist and flavorful cake features tender pears caramelized in butter and brown sugar, topped with a crispy brown sugar crust. Perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups (215g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
3. Arrange pear slices in the prepared pan, leaving space between each slice. Spoon caramel sauce evenly over pears.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour batter over pears.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pear and Ginger Crumble
This sweet and spicy crumble combines tender pears with a crunchy oat topping infused with the warmth of ginger. Perfect for a cozy evening dessert or a flavorful breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced pears, brown sugar, honey, and grated ginger. Mix until pears are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the pear mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Add chopped walnuts (if using) and stir until well combined.
6. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the pear filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the pears are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Pear Slices
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive treat that combines the natural sweetness of pears with the richness of dark chocolate. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe but firm pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa solids)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (like coconut oil or vegetable shortening)
– Optional: chopped nuts, shaved chocolate, or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Peel the pears and cut them into 1/4-inch thick slices.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening to thin the chocolate slightly.
4. Dip each pear slice into the melted chocolate, coating about half of the slice.
5. Place the coated pear slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to set.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts, shaved chocolate, or sea salt, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Pear and Hazelnut Galette
This rustic galette combines the sweetness of pears with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts, perfect for a fall or winter dessert. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and impressive treat to share.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange pear slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle hazelnuts, sugar, and honey over the pears.
5. Fold the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush with melted butter and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Vanilla Poached Pears with Honey
Transform ordinary pears into a decadent dessert by poaching them in a fragrant vanilla syrup infused with honey. This simple recipe yields a tender, sweet, and utterly divine treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add pears to the syrup, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and poach for 20-25 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove pears from the syrup and let cool slightly.
5. Drizzle honey over the pears and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pear and Cardamom Bread Pudding
Warm up with a slice of our Pear and Cardamom Bread Pudding, a delightful twist on the classic dessert. This sweet treat combines the tender texture of bread with the comforting flavors of pears and cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together bread, pear, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pear and Walnut Streusel Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with the sweetness of pears and the earthiness of walnuts, topped with a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup diced ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Streusel topping: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, pears, and walnuts; stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Top each muffin with streusel topping (mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl; add cold butter and mix until crumbly).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Pears with Cinnamon and Brown Sugar
This classic dessert recipe is a perfect way to end any meal, warm and comforting, with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar filling the air. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Place the pear halves in a baking dish, cut side up.
4. Sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over each pear half.
5. Drizzle with heavy cream and add a dash of vanilla extract.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pears are tender and caramelized.
7. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pear and Blueberry Cobbler
This classic dessert combines the sweet flavors of pears and blueberries with a crispy, buttery crust, perfect for a cozy evening treat or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together pears, blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place over the fruit mixture.
4. Brush the crust with beaten egg for a golden brown finish.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pear and Cranberry Hand Pies
Pear and Cranberry Hand Pies: A Delightful Twist on a Classic
These sweet and tangy hand pies are perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or as a unique dessert for your next gathering. The combination of tender pears and tart cranberries is a match made in heaven, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together pears, cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-6 squares depending on desired size of hand pies.
4. Place a tablespoon or two of the pear-cranberry mixture in the center of each square. Brush edges with beaten egg.
5. Fold squares into triangles, pressing edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges and create a decorative border.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp water). Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
7. Place hand pies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Pear and Dark Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy pear and dark chocolate mousse. Perfect for a special occasion or a decadent treat, this recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the depth of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and diced
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced pears and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the pears are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
6. Fold the cooled pear mixture into the chocolate-whipped cream mixture.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pear and Oatmeal Cookies
Sink your teeth into these sweet and satisfying cookies that combine the natural sweetness of pears with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these chewy treats are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe pear, diced (about 1 cup)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in pear and flour mixture until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pear and Ricotta Cheesecake
This creamy cheesecake combines the sweetness of pears with the tanginess of ricotta, creating a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz (340g) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and ricotta until smooth.
4. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Fold in diced pear.
6. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pear and Apple Crisp
This warm and comforting dessert combines the sweetness of pears and apples with a crunchy oat topping, perfect for a cozy fall evening. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced
– 1-2 ripe apples (such as Granny Smith or Gala), peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced pears and apples.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Pour the melted butter over the oat mixture and stir until combined.
5. Add the oat mixture to the pear-apple mixture and toss until fruit is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Pear and Rosemary Sorbet
This sorbet combines the sweetness of pears with the earthy flavor of rosemary, creating a unique and delightful dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pears, sugar, water, and rosemary. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture reaches a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and let it steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
4. Stir in lemon juice.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pear and Pecan Pie
This sweet and savory pie combines the natural sweetness of pears with the rich flavor of pecans, creating a unique dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Arrange the pear slices on the bottom of the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Mix sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream in a bowl. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour the sugar mixture over the pears, then sprinkle with pecan halves.
6. Fold the edges of the pie crust up to form a crusty border.
7. Brush egg wash over the crust for a golden finish.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pear and Chai Spiced Cupcakes
Elevate your baking game with these moist and flavorful pear and chai spiced cupcakes, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or special occasion. The combination of sweet pears and aromatic spices will transport you to a warm and inviting place.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 ripe pears, diced (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup chai tea-infused milk (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and chai tea-infused milk.
4. Add the diced pears, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves to the wet ingredients. Whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Note: To make chai tea-infused milk, steep 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf black tea in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes. Strain and add 2 tablespoons of honey to the cooled tea. Whisk with 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy) until combined.
Pear and Coconut Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made creamy by the combination of sweetened cream and gelatin. This pear and coconut panna cotta variation adds a delightful twist with the sweetness of ripe pears and the richness of shredded coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 ripe pear, diced (about 1 cup)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until fully dissolved.
4. Stir in the diced pear and shredded coconut.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None
Pear and Maple Syrup Ice Cream
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pears with the rich flavor of maple syrup to create a unique and delicious ice cream. With just a few ingredients, you can create a creamy and smooth dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and pureed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pear puree, heavy cream, whole milk, and maple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the ice cream is almost set, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours.
5. Scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including churning time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and delicious world of pear desserts! This collection of 20 irresistible recipes showcases the versatility of pears in both classic and modern treats. From traditional tarts and cakes to innovative mousse and sorbet, each recipe highlights the unique flavor and texture of this beloved fruit. Whether you’re a fan of spices, nuts, chocolate, or simply the sweetness of fresh pears, there’s something for everyone in this diverse lineup. Treat yourself or share with loved ones – these pear desserts are sure to be a hit!
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