If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dessert or snack, look no further than these Air Fryer Pears! The air fryer is a game-changer for preparing fruit, and pears cook up beautifully, retaining their natural sweetness and becoming incredibly tender. The best part? You can make them in just a few minutes, and the result is a warm, caramelized treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
What I love about these Air Fryer Pears is how easy they are to make, and you can customize them to fit your taste. Whether you enjoy them with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, or topped with a dollop of whipped cream, they’re versatile enough to satisfy any craving. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’ll soon become a staple in your kitchen!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Pears: These are the star of the dish. Choose ripe pears, such as Bartlett or Bosc, for the best texture and sweetness. The natural sugars in the pears will caramelize as they cook, making them irresistibly sweet and juicy.
Butter: A bit of melted butter adds richness to the pears, helping them crisp up on the outside while keeping the insides tender and juicy. It also enhances the natural flavors of the fruit.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon pairs beautifully with pears, giving them a warm, cozy flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit. It’s the perfect spice for adding depth to this simple recipe.
Honey (optional): A touch of honey can enhance the pears’ sweetness. You can also substitute it with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. It’s great for drizzling over the pears after they’re cooked.
Vanilla Extract: A few drops of vanilla extract add an extra layer of flavor, making these pears feel even more like a treat. The vanilla pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon.
Ingredients list
- 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Air Fryer Pears
Step 1: Prepare the Pears
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing the pears into even wedges. You want the slices to be uniform in size to ensure they cook evenly. If you prefer a more rustic look, feel free to leave the skin on for added texture and color.
Step 2: Season the Pears
Place the pear slices in a bowl. Drizzle them with melted butter and sprinkle them with cinnamon. Add the vanilla extract and honey (if using) and toss everything together to coat the pears evenly.
Step 3: Air Fry the Pears
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned pear slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the pears are golden and tender. If you prefer them slightly crispier, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pears are done, remove them from the air fryer and serve them hot. You can enjoy them as-is, or add a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use ripe pears: Ripe pears work best because they become softer and sweeter as they cook. If your pears aren’t fully ripe yet, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of days until they soften up.
- Customize the spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cardamom to add a unique twist to the flavor.
- Make it a dessert: Top your Air Fryer Pears with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
- For a caramelized finish: After air frying, sprinkle the pears with a little brown sugar and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes for a more caramelized finish.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits besides pears?
Yes! Apples, peaches, and even pineapple work well in the air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the fruit’s firmness.
Do I need to peel the pears?
It’s optional! Peeling the pears will give them a smoother texture, but leaving the skin on adds color and texture to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy Air Fryer Pears fresh, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to bring back their warmth and crispness.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and omit the honey or use maple syrup as a sweetener.