A blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple perfectly accents the natural flavors of oven-baked pears in this warm and comforting recipe! Easy Maple Cinnamon Vanilla Baked Pears are vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and naturally sweetened for a dish that everyone at the table can enjoy this holiday season.
It's time to start thinking about holiday baking, which for many means pulling out complicated family recipes and planning ahead so you have enough time to get them assembled on a busy holiday. These Maple Cinnamon Vanilla Baked Pears are the total opposite of that, though! They're quick and easy while also being absolutely delicious and filled with beneficial nutrition. Serve them with a scoop of ice cream and drizzle of caramel for dessert, or eat them with yogurt and granola for breakfast! You'll smile after every bite either way.
Whenever I'm looking for really good, in-season produce, I shop at Sprouts. Their produce is fresh and bright, and they carry unique varieties that I am always excited to try! Right now Sprouts has tons of seasonal pears available, and any of them would be delicious with this versatile and simple recipe. Make sure you also check out their bulk bins, which are my favorite way to stock up on pantry staples, and their wide selection of organic and allergen-friendly foods. So many of my favorite brands are stocked by Sprouts!
Ingredients in Maple Cinnamon Baked Pears
Here's my favorite thing about this recipe: once you have fresh pears, you just need a couple pantry ingredients to make this dish! It's super simple, and a short list of ingredients means that the natural sweetness of the pears is going to really shine in this recipe.
- Coconut or avocado oil - This is just for greasing the pan.
- Pears - I used both Red and Bosc pears, which are darker, warmer colors and looked beautiful sprinkled in cinnamon. Use your favorite, or try a variety you've never eaten before! You can't go wrong with pears. I love how the red pears look on a holiday table...so festive and warm!
- Maple Syrup - My favorite way to subtly and naturally sweeten recipes! Since pears are already pretty sweet, I just used a splash of pure maple to help the flavor shine.
- Ground cinnamon - The best spice for adding warmth and cozy vibes.
- Vanilla extract - A must-have! Cinnamon + maple + vanilla + pears? Match made in heaven!
- Almond extract - This is an optional addition! I love almond extract when baking; I think it adds something subtle and special that makes a recipe like this one shine.
All About Pears
Pears are not only delicious, they're really good for you! They offer the most fiber of the 20 most popular fruits and support probiotic bacteria in the gut. Research has shown that pears benefit gut, brain, and heart health, along with weight and even diabetes management! Most of the heart- and gut-healthy dietary fiber is found in the pear skin, so while you can absolutely peel your pears for this recipe if you prefer, keeping the skin on gives you the full benefits. Look for pears that are JUST becoming ripe! If they're too ripe they'll become mushy when cooked, which we definitely do not want. Test for ripeness by applying a bit of pressure near the stem and seeing if it gives a little. If it does then it is perfect for baked pears!
Baked Pear Toppings
There are so many delicious, comforting ways to enjoy these warmly spiced baked pears! Eat them on their own or use them as a base for a breakfast, snack, or dessert that feels indulgent and nourishing at the same time.
- On top of vegan vanilla yogurt! This is a delicious snack or breakfast. My kids go crazy for this combo for breakfast this time of year. My favorite brand of non-dairy, refined sugar-free yogurt is Culina, which you can find at Sprouts.
- Alongside Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream
- Top with chopped Homemade Candied Pecans and a drizzle of Easy Vanilla Blender Icing
- Sprinkled with Homemade Cinnamon-Vanilla Granola
- Served with a bit of Coconut Whipped Cream and a drizzle of Instant Vegan Caramel Sauce
This Easy Maple Cinnamon Baked Pear recipe is gluten-free, vegan (no eggs or dairy!), soy-free, nut-free, super easy to make, and kid-friendly. It's a dessert that everyone can enjoy! If you make it, please leave a review below, and don't forget to tag me on Instagram so that I can see your delicious pear dishes. I love seeing my recipes in your kitchen!
More Fruit Desserts
Easy Maple Cinnamon Vanilla Baked Pears
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple perfectly accents the natural flavors of oven-baked pears in this warm and comforting recipe! Easy Maple Cinnamon Vanilla Baked Pears are vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and naturally sweetened for a dish that everyone at the table can enjoy this holiday season.
Ingredients
- coconut oil or avocado oil for greasing the pan
- 2 ripe pears*
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a cast iron skillet with coconut oil or avocado oil.
- If desired you can peel your pears. Slice each pear in half vertically through the stem. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the seeds. You can leave the stem on for presentation if desired. Set aside.
- In a small glass whisk together the maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla and almond extract (if using). Lightly brush all parts of each pear half with this mixture.
- Place the pears cut side down in the greased skillet. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Use tongs to flip the pears so the cut side is facing up. Bake an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and drizzle any leftover maple glaze overtop the pears. Serve hot or warm overtop vegan vanilla yogurt (I love Culina brand) or alongside vegan vanilla ice cream. Top with chopped homemade candied pecans or homemade cinnamon-vanilla granola. Serve with coconut whipped cream if desired.
- Store leftover baked pear separate from the garnishes. Place the pears in an airtight container once they have fully cooled to room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Notes
* You want the pears to be JUST ripe but not overripe or they will get a bit mushy when cooked. You can test for ripeness by applying a bit of pressure near the stem and seeing if it gives a little. If it does then it is perfect for this recipe!
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Breakfast or Dessert
- Method: Oven
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