For February 2025 in “The Twelve Months of Fruit,” I selected a recipe for Cinnamon Baked Pears from Jessica in the Kitchen (Jessica Hylton):
https://jessicainthekitchen.com/cinnamon-baked-pears-vegan-video/
It’s typically a fall recipe, but with the cold weather we’re having I searched for the ultimate comfort food. What could be cozier than pears baked in maple syrup and cinnamon?
A few of the things I love about this recipe are that it only requires three ingredients, pears, maple syrup, and cinnamon; it smells amazing while its baking, and you can add multiple toppings or serve as is. Also, the only utensils or baking supplies you need are a knife, baking sheet, and a spoon.
The directions are simple. You can use several varieties of pears. Suggested toppings include, granola, chopped nuts, yogurt (Vegan or dairy), pudding (vanilla, banana, butterscotch, or chocolate), whipped cream, whipped cream cheese, chocolate chips, chopped fruit (Bananas, apples, cherries, or raspberries), or any combination of the above.
Jessica recommends cutting a thin slice off the rounded side of your pear if you want it to lay flatter during baking. I didn’t bother, but the next time I make this recipe I will, because it will keep more maple syrup on the pear while it bakes.
The recipe is quick and easy. It makes a delicious snack or dessert. It would be a perfect dessert for Valentine’s Day.
Historically, pears have symbolized abundance. They’ve been called gifts from the gods in literature. I art, the Madonna and child were often depicted with pears to symbolize love and divine fertility. The ancient Chinese believed pears were symbolic of immortality. Gifts of pears were given to wish the recipient prosperity, longevity, wealth, or peace. In Greek mythology, pears were sacred to Hera and Aphrodite.
Pears are delicious raw or cooked (usually baked). They are sweet, high in fiber, fat free, and cholesterol free. They are a source of Vitamin C, potassium, phytonutrients, and other antioxidants, along with trace amounts of sodium, iron, and Calcium. A medium sized pear contains about 100 calories.
The Twelve Months of Fruit (2025)
January – Fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and grapes (No recipe link)
February – Pears - https://jessicainthekitchen.com/cinnamon-baked-pears-vegan-video/