There’s something utterly comforting about biting into warm fruit kissed with cinnamon and baked to perfection. That’s exactly what inspired me to create these Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups—a simple yet elegant dessert that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or looking for a homemade treat that’s a little different from the usual, these cups deliver a perfect balance of sweet pear, fragrant spices, and a tender crumb. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for impressing guests or indulging in a quiet moment of self-care.
Why choose Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups?
Warm Comfort: These cups bring the cozy warmth of baked pears infused with cinnamon, perfect for chilly evenings.
Simple Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples to create this delightful dessert without any fuss.
Quick Preparation: Minimal prep and baking time means you can enjoy a homemade treat fast.
Elegant yet Easy: Stylish enough for guests but simple enough for weeknight cravings.
Versatile Delight: Serve warm with ice cream or enjoy as is for a wholesome, satisfying bite.
Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups Ingredients
For the Pear Filling
- Ripe Pears – Choose firm but juicy pears to hold their shape and add natural sweetness.
- Ground Cinnamon – This spice gives the warm, cozy flavor that defines Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups.
- Brown Sugar – Adds caramel notes and balances the tartness of the pears beautifully.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – A splash brightens the fruit’s flavor and prevents browning.
For the Cup Base
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for a tender, crumbly cup base.
- Butter – Use cold butter for a flaky, buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the base gently without overpowering the filling.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cups rise lightly, creating the perfect texture for Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors, making every bite more delightful.
How to Make Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches perfect temperature before baking for golden, crisp edges on each cup.
For the Pear Filling:
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Prepare Pears: Peel and dice 2 large firm pears into ½-inch cubes for uniform cooking and tender, juicy bites in every spoonful.
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Toss Filling: In a bowl, toss diced pears with 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until evenly coated and glossy.
For the Cup Base:
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Combine Dry: Whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl.
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Cut Butter: Add 4 tablespoons cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until mixture resembles coarse, pea-sized crumbs.
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Press Base: Press about 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture into the bottom and sides of each greased muffin cup, forming a sturdy ¼-inch crust.
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Fill Cups: Generously spoon the cinnamon pear filling into each crust-lined cup, mounding slightly in the center for a beautiful golden dome when baked.
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Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling hot at the edges.
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Cool & Serve: Let cups rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack; serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
Optional: Drizzle with honey before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups?
As you savor the warm, comforting flavors of these delightful cups, consider pairing them with complementary sides and treats.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the warmth of baked pears, creating a blissful harmony of flavors.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a dreamy texture that elevates each bite of the warm, cinnamon-infused dessert.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel over the cups enhances the sweetness and provides a luscious finish that’s simply irresistible.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a burst of color and a refreshing note to balance the rich flavors.
- Warm Spiced Tea: A cup of warm spiced tea offers a cozy beverage option, reinforcing the comforting sensations of the dessert.
- Roasted Nuts: Serve nuts on the side for a satisfying crunch that beautifully contrasts the soft, tender cups.
- Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a dollop of ganache adds a decadent layer that perfectly complements the sweet and spicy notes.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season by pairing these cups with a pumpkin spice latte for a soothing, festive experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups are the perfect solution for busy weeknights! You can prepare the pear filling up to 24 hours in advance by tossing the diced pears with brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Meanwhile, you can also mix the dry ingredients for the cup base and store them in a separate container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the cold butter into the dry mix, press into the muffin cups, fill with the chilled pear mixture, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting dessert without the last-minute rush, providing warm, cozy results every time!
Variations & Substitutions for Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups
Feel free to add your personal touch to these delightful baked cups, making them uniquely yours!
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Nutty Boost: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the pear filling for an extra crunch and rich flavor.
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Sweet Spice: Swap cinnamon for apple pie spice or chai spice blend for a warm twist that surprises the taste buds.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine and use a flaxseed egg for a dairy-free dessert option.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in other fruits, such as diced apples or cranberries, with the pears for a vibrant medley of flavors and textures.
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Bourbon Kick: Drizzle a touch of bourbon into the pear filling for an adult twist that adds depth and a warming note to each cup.
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Decadent Chocolate: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful surprise and chocolatey richness in every bite.
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Caramel Drizzle: Top with a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent sweet finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Expert Tips for Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups
- Choose Firm Pears: Opt for pears that are ripe yet firm to avoid mushy filling and maintain lovely texture in your Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups.
- Cold Butter Is Key: Use cold, cubed butter to create a flaky, tender crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft pear filling.
- Even Dice Pears: Cut pears into uniform ½-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and a consistent bite throughout each cup.
- Don’t Overfill Cups: Fill each cup moderately to prevent overflow and achieve a perfect golden dome without spills during baking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the cups cool slightly to thicken the filling and enhance flavors, making every bite cozy and satisfying.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups
Room Temperature: Allow Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.
Fridge: Store your cups in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-30 seconds to enjoy a warm treat.
Freezer: Freeze the baked cups in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag where they can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy the cozy flavors of your Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups just like fresh!
Easy Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups with a Warm, Cozy Twist Recipe FAQs
What kind of pears are best for Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups?
Choose firm but ripe pears, such as Bartlett or Anjou, that hold their shape well when baked. Avoid overly soft or spotted pears with dark spots all over, as they tend to turn mushy during cooking.
How should I store leftover Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups?
Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days in a sealed container, reheating briefly before serving to regain that warm, cozy feel.
Can I freeze Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups for later?
Absolutely! Freeze your cups by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until thoroughly warmed.
What should I do if my crust turns soggy instead of crisp?
Make sure to use cold butter and press the crumb mixture firmly into the pan to create a sturdy base. Avoid overfilling with too much wet pear filling, which can seep and soften the crust. Baking at the recommended temperature ensures a golden, crisp edge.
Are Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this recipe is naturally nut-free as it uses basic pantry ingredients. However, if you add any toppings like nuts or use nut-based butter substitutes, be sure to avoid cross-contamination to keep them safe for nut-sensitive eaters.
Easy Baked Pear Cinnamon Cups with a Warm, Cozy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and dice 2 large firm pears into ½-inch cubes.
- Toss diced pears with 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until evenly coated.
- Whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl.
- Add 4 tablespoons cold, cubed butter and blend until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press about 2 tablespoons of the crumb mixture into the bottom and sides of each greased muffin cup.
- Spoon the cinnamon pear filling into each crust-lined cup, mounding slightly.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cups rest for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack; serve warm.
