1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s getting toasty, cut the pears in half and scoop out the cores. A little melon baller or a spoon is perfect for this job.
2. Mix the honey, cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl, making sure it’s all friend-like and well-combined.
3. Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Drizzle them with the honey mixture, ensuring each pear gets equal love.
4. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top, giving them a quick stir in the honey on the pears to coat them a bit.
5. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the pears are tender and the tops are turning into that delicious golden brown we’re all after.
6. Once they’re done, let them take a little rest for about 5 minutes—just enough time to get your serving sides ready.
Variations & Tips
– Swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds if you’re feeling nutty in a different way.
– Include a sprinkle of blue cheese or goat cheese before serving for a savory twist.
– If honey isn’t your thing, try maple syrup for a more Midwestern fall flavor.
– For those who want to ensure the recipe is vegan-friendly, replace honey with agave syrup and use a plant-based butter alternative.
– Always taste your walnuts before adding them to ensure they’re not bitter, which can happen if they’re old. Fresh is best when it comes to nuts!
– To make this dish ahead of time, prepare everything but don’t bake. Cover and refrigerate. Then bake before you’re ready to serve, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.
There you have it, friends – a simple and utterly comforting dish that’s as lovely to eat as it is to look at
