Warm Ginger Pear Dessert (Printable)

Tender pears simmered with ginger, spices, and citrus for a comforting fruity dish.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Fruit

01 - 4 ripe but firm pears, peeled, halved, and cored

→ Poaching Liquid

02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup (for vegan option)
04 - 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
05 - 1 cinnamon stick
06 - 2 whole cloves
07 - Zest of 1 lemon
08 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
09 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Optional Garnishes

10 - Greek yogurt, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream
11 - Chopped toasted nuts such as pistachios or almonds

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a medium saucepan, combine water, honey, sliced ginger, cinnamon stick, cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
02 - Add pear halves cut side down into the simmering liquid. Poach gently for 15 to 20 minutes, spooning the liquid over the pears occasionally, until tender yet maintaining shape.
03 - Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the pears and transfer to a serving plate.
04 - Increase heat to boil the poaching liquid for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly, then discard the ginger, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
05 - Pour the warm syrup over the pears and serve immediately, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream, and sprinkled with toasted nuts if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in 30 minutes but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
  • The poaching liquid becomes this silky syrup that makes even plain yogurt feel luxurious.
  • Works whether you're feeding four people or sneaking a second bowl at midnight.
02 -
  • Don't use pears that are too soft or they'll fall apart during cooking. Firm-ripe is the sweet spot.
  • Spooning the liquid over the pears while they cook ensures even cooking and that beautiful color throughout.
  • The syrup thickens more as it cools, so don't reduce it too far or you'll have something closer to jam.
03 -
  • Let the syrup cool to just warm before pouring it over the pears if you're using ice cream. The contrast is perfect.
  • Save any leftover syrup to drizzle over pancakes, oatmeal, or vanilla pudding during the week.

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