A simple, fall dessert — for a stunning presentation, plate with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. These baked pears are equally good served at brunch!
INGREDIENTS:
4 pears, any variety, almost ripe (peeled)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup dark rum
Optional: Ice cream, whipped cream, almond slices, if desired
METHOD:
Preheat oven to 350°. Cut the peeled pears in half, lengthwise, and core. Place halves face down in a baking dish. Sprinkle with brown sugar, vanilla, and spices. Dot them with butter and pour the rum over them.
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Check the pears after 20 minutes and baste with the sugar, butter, and rum in the bottom of the pan. Bake pears until tender, but not falling apart or mushy. Baking time is dependent on the ripeness and variety of the pears. Use the tip of a knife inserted into the pear to determine tenderness.
Serve warm with a spoonful of syrup spooned over each pear, a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds, and a sprig of mint.
