This Maple Roasted Pears with Yogurt recipe is a sweet, comforting dish perfect for a quick breakfast or a light dessert. It’s incredibly simple to make and tastes wonderfully elegant, even for beginner cooks. You’ll love how the warm, tender pears pair with cool, creamy yogurt.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pears: Bosc or Anjou pears work best as they hold their shape well. You can substitute with firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Agave nectar or honey can be used as alternatives.
- Plain Yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a thicker, tangier contrast. Regular plain yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt works well.
- Cinnamon: Adds a classic warm spice. Nutmeg or a pinch of ground ginger can also be used.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 medium pears, firm but ripe
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
Optional:
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, small bowl, sharp knife, spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pears
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the pears thoroughly. Carefully cut each pear in half lengthwise and use a small spoon to scoop out the core and any seeds.
2. Season and Roast
Place the pear halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle the maple syrup evenly over the pears. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and a tiny pinch of salt if desired. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender when poked with a fork and slightly caramelized.
3. Assemble and Serve
Remove the roasted pears from the oven. Let them cool slightly. Divide the plain yogurt between two serving bowls. Place one or two roasted pear halves on top of the yogurt in each bowl.
4. Garnish (Optional)
For an added crunch and flavor, sprinkle with chopped nuts before serving. You can also add an extra drizzle of maple syrup if you like. Enjoy your warm maple roasted pears immediately!
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover roasted pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a warm oven until heated through. Add fresh yogurt when ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Q: Can I use different types of pears?
A: Yes, Bosc and Anjou are recommended, but Comice or Bartlett pears will also work, though they might become softer. - Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can roast the pears ahead of time and store them. Assemble with fresh yogurt just before serving for the best experience. - Q: What if I don’t have maple syrup?
A: Honey or agave nectar are good substitutes for the maple syrup, offering a similar sweetness. - Q: Can I add other spices?
A: Absolutely! A pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ground ginger would also be delicious with the maple roasted pears. - Q: Is this dish good for breakfast or dessert?
A: It’s versatile! It works wonderfully as a healthy breakfast option or a light, satisfying dessert after any meal.