Cinnamon Maple Roasted Pears with Pistachio Crumble
There’s something extraordinarily comforting about roasted pears. When drizzled with the warm, sweet embrace of cinnamon and maple syrup, they transform into a decadent dessert that feels both elegant and homey. Add a crunchy pistachio crumble, and you have a delightful contrast of textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Not only is this dish an absolute treat for the taste buds, but it’s also straightforward enough for anyone to whip up, making it perfect for everything from dinner parties to quiet nights at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert.
- Flavorful Combination: The sweet and spicy notes of cinnamon and maple perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the pears.
- Nutty Crunch: The pistachio crumble adds a wonderful texture, balancing the soft, juicy pears beautifully.
- Healthier Dessert Option: Made with fresh fruit and nuts, this dessert offers a slightly healthier alternative to traditional sweets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your own Cinnamon Maple Roasted Pears with Pistachio Crumble, gather the following ingredients:
For the Roasted Pears:
- 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou work best)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pistachio Crumble:
- 1 cup pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pears
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prep the Pears: Wash, core, and cut the pears in half. You can leave the skin on for added texture and color.
Marinate the Pears: In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Toss the pear halves in this mixture until well coated.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the pears cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Making the Pistachio Crumble
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pistachios, rolled oats, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract over the dry mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and crumbly.
Top the Pears with Crumble: Generously sprinkle the crumble mixture over each pear half.
Roasting the Pears
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the crumble is golden brown.
Check for Doneness: You can use a fork to poke the pears; they should be soft but not mushy.
Serve Warm: Once out of the oven, allow the pears to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert can stand alone, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and additional sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve the pears with a dollop of Greek yogurt for that perfect creamy texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the top adds an exciting flavor twist.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Pears
- Choose Ripe Pears: Make sure your pears are ripe but still firm. Overripe pears will turn mushy during baking.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or ginger to the maple-cinnamon mixture for added warmth.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pears and the crumble in advance. Assemble them before baking for a quick last-minute dessert.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Maple Roasted Pears with Pistachio Crumble is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful celebration of flavors and textures that can brighten any dinner table. Whether you’re enjoying them by yourself or sharing them with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a sweet, nutty, and fragrant treat that celebrates the best of autumn flavors!