Baked Apples and Pears with Maple and Thyme

This baked apples and pears recipe is one of those simple, cozy dishes that fits right in all season long, especially around the holidays. With maple syrup, fresh thyme, and warming cinnamon, it's sweet, savory, and full of caramelized flavor. Whether you serve it as a Thanksgiving side or a fuss-free dessert, this is one recipe that always earns a spot on the table.

Baked fruit doesn't need much to shine, and this recipe proves it. The combination of apples and pears gets beautifully soft and golden in the oven, while maple syrup brings out their natural sweetness. Thyme might sound unexpected, but it adds a subtle savory note that rounds out the dish and makes it feel special.

You can enjoy these baked apples and pears as a side dish with roasted mains, spooned over oats or yogurt for breakfast, or even topped with vanilla ice cream for a minimalist dessert. It's also a great option for meal prep or entertaining since it reheats beautifully.

For more holiday-worthy side dish recipes, check out my Oven Roasted Pumpkin, Egg-Free Sweet Potato Casserole, Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips, Spelt Berry Grain Salad with Apples, or Creamy Vegan Gravy.

Ingredients

• Apples and Pears - Use a mix of both, all apples, or all pears depending on what you have on hand right now
• Oil - I like grapeseed oil but any neutral-tasting oil is fine
• Maple syrup for sweet and caramel-y flavor
• Ginger and cinnamon to add a little spice
• Thyme for freshness

Baking vs. Roasting

Baking and roasting are similar cooking methods. The main difference between the two is the cooking temperature. Roasting occurs at higher temperatures, usually 400 degrees Fahrenheit and higher, while baking occurs at lower temperatures.

Because of the higher temperature, roasting typically creates more of that golden-brown crust that is so good. With this recipe, though, we're cooking the fruit on the stovetop before we bake so we can get in on that browning action without increasing the oven temperature to the level of roasting.

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, heat up some oil in a Dutch oven or an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

Once hot, carefully spread the apples and pears in a single layer flesh-side down in the Dutch oven or skillet and cook until the bottoms turn brown. Then, stir in the maple syrup, ginger slices, cinnamon stick, sprigs of fresh thyme, and salt.

Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven to bake for about 30 minutes, or until the fruit is tender with a strong, spiced aroma. Mmm mmm.

Serving

These baked apples and pears are super versatile, especially during the fall and winter months. They work with sweet breakfasts, on salads for lunch, and as a side dish for dinner. For dessert, try baked apples and pears with a scoop of ice cream.

Breakfast Ideas

Use Baked Apples and Pears as a topping for:

• Oatmeal
• Pancakes
• Waffles
• Nut butter toast
• French toast

Lunch/Dinner Ideas

For lunch and dinner, use this recipe as a component or topping for:

• Salads
• Grain bowls
• Pizza
• Sandwiches
• As a side dish alongside your favorite protein

Making Ahead and Storage

If you can, enjoy these fresh out of the oven, when they're still warm and the aroma is at its peak.

You can also prep this recipe ahead of time and store in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. 

Substitutions

• If you don't have pears, replace them with additional apples. If you don't have apples, replace them with additional pears.
• To substitute dry spices, use one teaspoon each ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and dry thyme instead of fresh ginger slices, a cinnamon stick, and sprigs of fresh thyme.
• If you don't have maple syrup, substitute honey or agave nectar.

📖 Recipe

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