Delicious and Easy: Oven-Poached Pears with Cream
Are you looking for a simple yet elegant dessert to impress your guests? Look no further than oven-poached pears with cream. This delightful dish is not only easy to make but also a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delectable treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 ripe pears
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Step 1: Preparing the Pears
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, peel the pears, leaving the stems intact. Use a melon baller or a small spoon to carefully remove the seeds from the bottom of the pears, creating a small cavity for the poaching liquid.
Step 2: Making the Poaching Liquid
In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the liquid is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Poaching the Pears
Place the prepared pears in a baking dish, and carefully pour the warm poaching liquid over them. Cover the dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Allow the pears to poach for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the thickest part of a pear; it should slide in easily.
Serving the Oven-Poached Pears
Once the pears are perfectly poached, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. You can serve them warm or at room temperature. Place each pear on a serving plate, drizzle with some of the poaching liquid, and add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The combination of the tender, sweet pears with the creamy topping is simply divine.
Get Creative with Toppings
While whipped cream and vanilla ice cream are classic choices for serving with oven-poached pears, feel free to get creative with your toppings. Chopped nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce can take this dessert to the next level. You can also experiment with different flavors of ice cream or even a splash of liqueur for an adult twist.
Final Thoughts
Oven-poached pears with cream are a wonderful way to end a meal on a sweet note. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a stunning dessert that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a special treat, this recipe is a winner. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of oven-poached pears with cream?
Now that you know how to create this delicious dessert, it’s time to gather the ingredients and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!