HOLIDAY BAKED PEARS

Lighten up the holiday celebration with these simple but festive baked pears. Serves: 8

INGREDIENTS

  • 4 medium pears (such as Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (60ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Granola or chopped nuts (optional)

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  3. Cut pears in half lengthwise, leaving stems (if desired). Using a small spoon or melon baller, scoop out cores.
  4. Place pear halves in backing dish and brush all over with melted butter. Sprinkle cut sides with sugar and cinnamon.
  5. Stir together maple syrup and vanilla and drizzle over pears. 
  6. Fill centers with granola or nuts (if using).
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until pears are soft and sugar has caramelized in the pan.
  8. Serve warm.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Serving Size: 1/2 pear

  • 163 calories
  • 5g fat
  • 30g carbs
  • 1.5g protein

Source: modified from preppykitchen.com