When it comes to fall baking, pears are a staple ingredient that can’t be beat. Sweet and tender, with a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with warm spices, pears are the perfect addition to any dessert recipe. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 delicious pear dessert recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.
From classic desserts like upside-down cakes and crumbles, to creative twists like poached pears with honey drizzle and pear-studded breakfast cookies, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering treats. So go ahead, grab a pear, and get baking!
Spiced Pear and Almond Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the warmth of spices with the tender sweetness of pears and the crunch of almonds, perfect for a seasonal dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Arrange pear slices in a pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle mixture evenly over pears.
5. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the pears.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the tart.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and pears are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Pear Upside-Down Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is elevated by the sweet and sticky caramelized pears on top, making it perfect for a warm weather dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe but firm pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Arrange pear halves in the prepared dish, leaving space between each.
3. Sprinkle sugar mixture evenly over pears.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and flour.
5. Pour batter over pears, smooth top, and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a serving plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pear and Ginger Crumble
Savor the sweet and spicy flavors of pears, ginger, and a crunchy oat topping with this simple yet impressive dessert recipe. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced pears, grated ginger, and brown sugar. Toss until the pears are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, chopped almonds (if using), cinnamon, and salt.
4. Add melted butter to the oat mixture and stir until crumbly.
5. Pour the pear mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish and top with the crumble mixture.
6. 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
Transform fresh pears into a sweet indulgence with this simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of pears with the richness of chocolate. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable shortening)
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the pears. Cut each pear into 1/2-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. Dip each pear slice into the melted chocolate, coating about half of the slice.
4. Place the dipped pears on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just refrigeration)
Pear and Hazelnut Galette
This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the earthy flavor of hazelnuts, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a weeknight dessert or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), sliced
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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, honey, and cinnamon over the pears.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Poached Pears with Honey Drizzle
Transform ordinary pears into an elegant dessert by poaching them in a fragrant vanilla syrup and drizzling with warm honey. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream and vanilla extract. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add pears to the syrup and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove pears from the syrup and let cool.
5. Drizzle warm honey over the poached pears before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pear and Blueberry Cobbler
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of pears and blueberries with a crispy, buttery crust. Perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion, this cobbler is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pears, blueberries, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until fruit is evenly coated.
3. Pour melted butter over the fruit mixture and stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place over the fruit mixture.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pear and Cardamom Bread Pudding
This comforting bread pudding combines the sweetness of pears with the warm spices of cardamom, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat. The result is a moist and flavorful dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale Challah or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 ripe pear, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, pear, sugar, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture; let it soak for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Pear with Cinnamon Ice Cream
Experience the perfect harmony of warm and cold with this unique dessert recipe. Roasting pears brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with a creamy cinnamon ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel, core, and halve the pears.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Add the pear halves and toss to coat.
4. Place the pears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the ice cream base by whisking together granulated sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
6. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.
7. Once the pears are roasted, let them cool slightly before serving with scoops of cinnamon ice cream.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting time) + ice cream churning time
Pear and Walnut Streusel Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of pears with the earthy taste of walnuts, topped off with a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 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
– 1/2 cup diced pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and diced pears. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Sprinkle streusel topping over each muffin.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Streusel Topping:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Mix flour and sugar in a small bowl. Add cold butter and use fingers or pastry blender to work into crumbly mixture.
Pear and Apple Crisp
Pear and Apple Crisp: A Delicious Fall Treat
This warm and comforting dessert combines the sweetness of pears and apples with a crunchy oat topping, perfect for cozying up on a crisp fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1 ripe apple, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced pears and apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until fruit is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the fruit mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using). Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
5. Top the fruit with the oat mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and fruit is tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pear and Dark Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy mousse featuring tender pears and dark chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine diced pears and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pears are tender and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Remove the pear mixture from heat and stir in heavy cream, dark chocolate chips, and softened butter until smooth.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
4. Just before serving, whisk in vanilla extract.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes prep time, plus chilling
Pear and Ricotta Cheesecake
This creamy cheesecake is infused with the sweetness of pears, creating a unique dessert that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender pears and smooth ricotta cheese makes for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and mix until combined.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
5. Beat in eggs, then stir in ricotta cheese, diced pears, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling over crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pear and Cranberry Turnovers
These flaky pastry turnovers are filled with a delicious combination of sweet pears and tangy cranberries, perfect for a snack or dessert. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together pears, cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 4-6 equal squares.
4. Spoon about 1 tbsp of the pear-cranberry mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and cut a few slits in each turnover for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pear and Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
These Pear and Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are a sweet and satisfying way to begin your morning. Moist pears add natural sweetness, while rolled oats provide a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add diced pears, chopped walnuts (if using), honey, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pear and Brown Butter Cake
Moist and flavorful, this pear and brown butter cake is perfect for any occasion. The combination of caramelized pears and nutty brown butter creates a rich and indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Stir in diced pears and vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pear and Pistachio Baklava
This sweet and savory baklava combines the natural sweetness of pears with the crunch of pistachios, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of phyllo dough
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Layer phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
3. In a separate bowl, mix pears, pistachios, sugar, honey, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Spread the pear mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
5. Roll up remaining phyllo dough and slice into thin strips. Place on top of the pear mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pear and Rosemary Sorbet
This sorbet recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the earthy flavor of rosemary, creating a unique and refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pears, sugar, water, and rosemary. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.
4. Whisk in lemon juice and chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (saucepan) + 2 hours (chilling) + 1 hour (freezing)
Pear and Maple Syrup Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious twist on traditional pancakes, featuring sweet and tender pears, rich maple syrup, and a hint of cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for a cozy morning breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 ripe pears, diced (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Cinnamon to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine egg, milk, diced pears, maple syrup, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1 minute.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Pear and Coconut Chia Pudding
A deliciously healthy breakfast or snack option that combines the sweetness of pears with the creaminess of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a nutritious chia pudding package.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1 tablespoon shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and coconut milk. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb.
2. In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, and diced pear. Mix well until smooth.
3. Once the chia pudding has absorbed, add it to the pear mixture and stir until combined.
4. Spoon into individual serving cups or jars. Top with shredded coconut, if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 1-2
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tender taste of pears with these 20 delicious dessert recipes! From classic pear tart to innovative pairings like chocolate-dipped pear slices, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try your hand at spiced pear and almond tart, caramelized pear upside-down cake, or warm vanilla poached pears with a honey drizzle. For a twist on tradition, experiment with pear and ginger crumble, pear and hazelnut galette, or pear and blueberry cobbler. Whatever your taste, these irresistible recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!
