Christmas pears glow with cozy holiday magic, their ruby blushed halves filled with warm honey and cinnamon as orange cider and vanilla drift softly through the kitchen. Once roasted, each pear turns tender and glossy with buttery sweetness, wrapping you in the kind of comfort that feels like holiday cheer in every breath. Fresh thyme and toasted almonds add festive texture, making each bite feel bright and celebratory. Ready in under thirty minutes, these christmas pears are the perfect simple finale to any joyful feast. Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of yogurt for an extra touch of comfort.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This christmas pears
- Deliciously warm and comforting, perfect for chilly holiday nights.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up a festive treat.
- Healthy yet indulgent, satisfying your sweet tooth without guilt.
- Impressive enough to wow your guests at any holiday gathering.
christmas pears
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Gently peel the pears, leaving the stems intact for a charming presentation.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, sugar, a cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla bean, and honey.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Step 4: Add the pears to the liquid, ensuring they are submerged. If needed, add a splash of water to cover them.
- Step 5: Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, turning the pears occasionally, until they are tender and infused with flavor.
- Step 6: Remove the pears and set them aside. Increase the heat to reduce the poaching liquid to a syrupy consistency, about 5–7 minutes.
- Step 7: Serve the pears drizzled with the spiced syrup. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Protein | 0.5g |
| Carbs | 38g |
Ingredients
Get ready to make delightful Christmas pears with this simple list of ingredients!
- 4 ripe pears – choose your favorite variety for sweetness
- 1 cup pomegranate juice – a festive non-alcoholic substitute for red wine
- 1/2 cup sugar – to enhance the natural sweetness
- 1 cinnamon stick – adds warmth and spice
- 2 star anise – for a beautiful aromatic flavor
- 3 cloves – a hint of holiday spice
- 1 orange – zested and juiced for freshness
- 1 vanilla bean – split for rich flavor
- 1 tablespoon honey – for a touch of natural sweetness
How to Make Christmas Pears
This delightful Christmas Pears recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. You’ll want to allow a little extra time for the flavors to meld, making it perfect for a festive gathering!
Step 1: Peel the Pears
Gently peel the pears, leaving the stems intact for a charming presentation.
Step 2: Prepare the Poaching Liquid
In a medium saucepan, combine apple juice, sugar, a cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla bean, and honey.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4: Add the Pears
Add the pears to the liquid, ensuring they are submerged. If needed, add a splash of water to cover them.
Step 5: Simmer the Pears
Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, turning the pears occasionally, until they are tender and infused with flavor.
Step 6: Reduce the Poaching Liquid
Remove the pears and set them aside. Increase the heat to reduce the poaching liquid to a syrupy consistency, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 7: Serve the Pears
Serve the pears drizzled with the spiced syrup. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Warm with spiced syrup |
Pro Tips for Making Christmas Pears
- Choose firm, ripe pears for the best texture.
- Experiment with different nuts for added crunch.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for a unique twist.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
How to Serve this christmas pears
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
- Drizzle with extra honey for added sweetness.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a festive touch.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts for a delightful crunch.
- Enjoy alongside a slice of gingerbread for a cozy dessert combo.
- Serve with a cup of spiced apple cider for a warming beverage pairing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your Christmas pears later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow pears to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Cool pears completely before freezing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Label with date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is a Christmas pear?
A Christmas pear typically refers to pears that are enjoyed during the holiday season, often baked or poached with festive spices. These pears are not a specific variety but are chosen for their sweetness and ability to hold up well during cooking, making them a delightful treat for holiday gatherings.
2. Why do people give pears at Christmas?
Pears are often given as gifts during Christmas because they symbolize prosperity and good health. Their sweet flavor and beautiful appearance make them a thoughtful and elegant gift, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the festive season.
3. What are the best pears for Christmas?
The best pears for Christmas recipes are typically Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett pears. Bosc pears are particularly great for baking due to their firm texture, while Anjou and Bartlett pears offer a sweet flavor that enhances holiday dishes. Choose ripe but slightly firm pears for the best results in your recipes.
4. What does the pear symbolize at Christmas?
At Christmas, pears symbolize abundance, fertility, and the sweetness of life. They are often associated with the idea of sharing and generosity, making them a fitting fruit for the season of giving and celebration. Incorporating pears into your holiday meals can add a touch of warmth and joy to your festivities.
Final Thoughts
As the holiday season approaches, these delightful Christmas pears are sure to bring warmth and joy to your table! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a festive treat that’s both easy and rewarding. So gather your loved ones, savor the sweet aroma of cinnamon and honey, and enjoy every delicious bite of this heartwarming dish!