I love simple food that feels a little like a gift. Buttery Roasted Pears is one of those small gifts. I make it when I want a quick dessert that feels warm, grown up, and kind.
My dad James taught me to pick firm pears that smell sweet. My sister Jennifer eats them with yogurt and my mom Eva likes them with a little sharp cheese.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- 2 large, firm pears
- 2 tsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp quality balsamic vinegar
- 4 tsp liquid honey (add more if desired)
The Tools That Help
I keep this list short so you do not need a lot. You will want an ovenproof dish that fits the pears. A small brush helps you spread the honey and vinegar. I like a small spoon for drizzling and a sharp knife for trimming the pear stems.
I often make these pears when I am also pulling a hot tray from the oven, like when I cook my easy roasted butternut squash with ground turkey. The kitchen smells like fall and the house feels full.
The Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat the oven to 400 F.
- Wash and dry the pears, then cut them in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the core with a small spoon.
- Place the pear halves cut side up in a small baking dish.
- Warm the butter in a small pan until it melts.
- Mix the balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl.
- Brush each pear half with the melted butter.
- Spoon a little of the honey and vinegar mix over each pear.
- Roast the pears for 18 to 25 minutes until they are tender and golden.
- Baste the pears once or twice with the pan juices while they cook.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let the pears rest five minutes.
- Serve warm with a spoonful of yogurt, a little cheese, or a scoop of ice cream.
Lighter, Healthier Touches
I know we all want small swaps to keep dessert light. You can cut the butter by half and use a light olive oil on some pears. You can skip the ice cream and serve the pears with plain Greek yogurt for a soft, tangy match. If you like a hint of spice, sprinkle a small pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger before you roast. These steps keep the dish warm and bright without extra heaviness.
If you want to make a sauce that is lighter, heat the balsamic and honey mix until it reduces very slightly. Do not let it boil long. A little reduction thickens the sauce and makes a small amount go far. I do this when I want a cleaner plate and a smaller bite of sweetness.
Perfect Pairings
Pears work with many things. I often set these pears with a simple salad that has sharp greens and nuts. They also go well with a slice of strong cheese or a spoon of ricotta. For a slow night, I serve them with warm bread or a small tart. If you want a meal that feels like a party, serve the pears after a light pizza or a roasted vegetable dish. They bring the same warm, soft note as my favorite Greek white pizza with spinach and roasted garlic, and they make a sweet end to a simple feast.
Common Stumbles to Avoid
Pears that are too soft make a mushy dish. Pick pears that are firm with a slight give near the stem. Do not overbake. Check at 18 minutes and test with a small knife. If the knife slides in without force, the pears are ready.
Do not drown the pears in sauce. A thin glaze gives shine and flavor. Too much liquid can make them soggy. Also, do not try to skip the rest time. Let the pears sit five minutes after the oven so the juices settle and you can spoon them without losing texture.
Storing Your Creation
Leftover pears keep well for a short time. Place cooled pears in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Warm them in a low oven or microwave for a short time before serving. If you plan to keep them longer, do not freeze them. Freezing makes the texture mealy and soft. I find fresh pears taste best on day one or two.
If you have extra glaze, keep it in a small jar in the fridge and use it for salads or to spoon on yogurt. The glaze will keep for about a week if you heat it gently before use.
A Final Warm Word
I love this recipe because it is small and kind. It asks for few steps and gives a soft, warm finish to any meal. Try it when you want to feel cozy and cared for. I hope it makes your kitchen smell like ours did when I was a child.
Answering Your Questions
How long do I roast Buttery Roasted Pears?
I roast the pears for 18 to 25 minutes at 400 F. Start checking at 18 minutes. The pears are done when a knife slides in with no hard spots but the fruit still holds its shape.
Can I change the sweetener in Buttery Roasted Pears?
Yes. I sometimes use maple syrup instead of honey. You can also use less honey if you want the dessert less sweet. If you use maple, heat it with the balsamic a bit so it blends and glazes the pear well.
What is the best way to serve Buttery Roasted Pears?
I serve them warm. A scoop of plain yogurt, a little ricotta, or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream lifts the dish. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a tiny pinch of salt adds contrast. Keep the serving simple so the pear stays the star.
Print
Buttery Roasted Pears
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick, warm dessert of buttery roasted pears, perfect for a cozy finish to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large, firm pears
- 2 tsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp quality balsamic vinegar
- 4 tsp liquid honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Wash and dry the pears, then cut them in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the core with a small spoon.
- Place the pear halves cut side up in a small baking dish.
- Warm the butter in a small pan until it melts.
- Mix the balsamic vinegar and honey in a small bowl.
- Brush each pear half with the melted butter.
- Spoon a little of the honey and vinegar mix over each pear.
- Roast the pears for 18 to 25 minutes until they are tender and golden, basting once or twice with the pan juices.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let the pears rest for five minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with yogurt, cheese, or ice cream. For a lighter touch, substitute butter with olive oil and use Greek yogurt instead of ice cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pear half
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: roasted pears, dessert, easy recipe, cozy food, fall recipe