How Can You Elevate Seasonal Fruits with Vanilla Beans in Your Harvest Season Recipes?
As the fall season unfolds, it's the perfect time to take advantage of the abundance of delicious, ripe fruits like pears. This simple yet elegant recipe for Baked Pears with Vanilla Bean beautifully showcases the flavors of the harvest season. The natural sweetness of the pears is elevated by the rich, aromatic vanilla bean, creating a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for cool autumn evenings.
By incorporating bulk vanilla beans, this recipe transforms an everyday fruit into a sophisticated dessert that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the senses. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a festive fall gathering, these Baked Pears with Vanilla Bean are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Anjou work well)
- 1 vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup water or apple cider
- Optional toppings: chopped walnuts, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to fit the pears snugly.
- Prepare the pears: Cut the pears in half lengthwise and use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the cores. You can also remove the stems if desired, or leave them for presentation purposes.
- Infuse with vanilla: In a small bowl, combine the honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and the scraped vanilla bean seeds. Reserve the vanilla pod. Stir the mixture until well combined.
- Arrange the pears: Place the pear halves, cut side up, in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the vanilla-honey mixture over the pears, making sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the pears with ground cinnamon for a touch of warmth.
- Add liquid: Pour the water or apple cider into the bottom of the baking dish. This helps keep the pears moist and creates a delicious sauce as they bake.
- Bake: Add the reserved vanilla pod to the dish for extra flavor, then cover the dish loosely with foil. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork. For a caramelized finish, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Remove the pears from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spoon the warm vanilla-infused syrup over the top of the pears. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for added texture.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Fall Desserts with Vanilla Beans
This Baked Pears with Vanilla Bean recipe is the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall and incorporate seasonal fruits into your meals. The addition of vanilla bean brings a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the pears, making this a standout dessert.
Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall and make every meal a celebration with these simple yet irresistible recipes.
