For a deeper flavor, use a high-quality dry Marsala wine instead of cooking wine. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference. A dollop of mascarpone cheese or a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate also makes a delightful topping.
Indulge in the simple elegance of Marsala-poached pears. A luscious dessert, effortlessly blending tender pears with the rich, aromatic notes of Marsala wine, perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner finale.
In a small bowl, combine Marsala cooking wine, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. (2 minutes)
Melt butter in a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat. (3 minutes)
Stir in the Marsala mixture and cook until it begins to bubble gently. (2 minutes)
Place the pear halves cut-side down in the skillet. (1 minute)
Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook until the pears are tender and a paring knife easily slides into the flesh, about 20 minutes. (20 minutes)
Remove from heat and let the pears stand in the sauce until they are cool enough to handle, about 30-45 minutes. (45 minutes)
To serve, place each pear half in a small bowl. (1 minute)
Stir the remaining sauce in the skillet and drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of the warm sauce over each pear half. (2 minutes)
Top each serving with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
For a deeper flavor, use a high-quality dry Marsala wine instead of cooking wine. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference. A dollop of mascarpone cheese or a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate also makes a delightful topping.
Corrine Hudson
Jun 27, 2025This recipe was so easy to follow and the pears came out perfectly! The Marsala flavor is amazing.
Pink King
Jun 16, 2025I made this for a dinner party and everyone raved about it. Such a simple yet elegant dessert!
Vesta Gutkowski
Jun 9, 2025I didn't have pecans, so I used toasted almonds instead. Still delicious!
Freeman Gleason
Jun 3, 2025I used real Marsala wine and it made a huge difference! Definitely worth the splurge.
Koby Schuppe
Apr 22, 2025This is my new go-to dessert for special occasions. Thank you for sharing!
Hilbert Heidenreich
Mar 26, 2025The sauce is incredible! I could drink it straight from the pan (but I didn't!).
Myrtle Gislason
Feb 8, 2025I found the pears were a little too sweet for my taste, so next time I'll reduce the brown sugar by a tablespoon.
Kraig Casper
Jan 6, 2025My pears were a little underripe, so I added an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.