If you always fall in love with that perfectly spiced apple pie drenched in a sweet, cinnamon syrup that just keeps you coming for more, then you are sure to find this recipe a hit! Why? It’s super easy and you don’t have to worry about baking a crust that is too hard or under-baked. After making this recipe, I didn’t have mounds of measuring cups, bowls, and spoons to wash so it was a relief. Mind you, I’m not usually the pears type of person. I will go straight for the apples if given both to choose from. This dish though presents pears in a simple yet enjoyable way. It almost tastes like an apple pie, because of how juicy and tender the pears are.

Vanilla Bean Poached Pears

Printable Recipe here

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (can also use actual vanilla bean or vanilla extract)
• 7 medium sized pears (peeled, cored, and split in half)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

Preheat: 375 F

1. Place sugar in a small bowl and mix in the vanilla bean paste
2. Arrange the pears in a large baking dish (cut side up) and then pour the lemon juice and sprinkle the sugar evenly over them
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon over the pears and pour the water into the dish
4. Divide the butter amongst each of the pears, placing a small amount onto each one
5. Roast the pears for 30 minutes
6. Turn the pears over and roast for another 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized

Recipe adapted from Smitten Kitchen

Tips:

– If you are unable to finish the pears, refrigerate and warm up before eating the next time

– Vanilla ice-cream or whipped cream will go great paired with this dessert