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Poached Pears with Caramel Sauce: A Delicious Dessert Recipe

Indulge in tender poached pears infused with red wine, cinnamon, and star anise, drizzled with a rich caramel sauce. This elegant dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of flavors and a sophisticated presentation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 star anise
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Select ripe but firm Bosc or Anjou pears.
  2. Rinse pears under cold water.
  3. Peel the pears carefully, leaving the stems intact.
  4. Cut a small slice off the bottom of each pear for stability.
  5. In a large saucepan, combine water, red wine, granulated sugar, cinnamon stick, star anise, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
  6. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  8. Place the peeled pears into the simmering liquid, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  9. Poach for 20-30 minutes until tender but not mushy.
  10. Check doneness with a knife; it should slide in easily with some resistance.
  11. Remove pears and set aside to cool.
  12. Strain the poaching liquid through a fine-mesh sieve and return to the saucepan.
  13. In a separate saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt.
  14. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves and sauce is smooth.
  15. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  16. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  17. Return strained poaching liquid to the stove.
  18. Increase heat to medium-high and boil until reduced by half (10-15 minutes).
  19. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  20. Place a poached pear upright on a dessert plate.
  21. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pear.
  22. Drizzle reduced poaching liquid around the plate.
  23. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh mint leaves if desired.
  24. Serve poached pears alone or with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
  25. Pair with dessert wine or rich coffee for a sophisticated touch.

Notes

  • Store leftover poached pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat caramel sauce gently before serving.