Baked Pears

Ingredients

• 4 medium Pears (Choose ripe but firm pears, such as Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc. Seckel pears are also delicious.)
• 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (Or substitute with 2 tablespoons of molasses.)
• 1 cup Water (Adjust amount as needed to prevent burning.)

Instructions

1. 1Wash the pears thoroughly. Quarter each pear and remove the core. Alternatively, for small pears, leave them whole.
2. 2Place the pear quarters (or whole pears) in a deep baking dish. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the pears. If using molasses, drizzle it over the pears.
3. 3Pour water into the baking dish, ensuring it reaches about halfway up the sides of the pears. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake in a very slow oven (275°F / 135°C) for 2 to 3 hours, or until the pears are tender.
4. 4Check the pears for tenderness after 2 hours. If they are not yet tender, continue baking for another hour, checking periodically. The pears are done when they are easily pierced with a fork.
5. 5Remove the baked pears from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, with the baking juices spooned over the top. Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.