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The Best Honey Thyme Roasted Pears & Apples with Maple Cream
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This recipe is a dream -think tender, caramelized pears and apples enhanced by a touch of honey and the subtle, earthy aroma of fresh thyme. Our Honey Thyme Roasted Pears & Apples with Maple Cream recipe is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the rustic charm of baked pears and apples with the luxurious creaminess of maple-whipped mascarpone.
When are California Pears & Apples in Season?
Many people think of pears and apples as fall fruits, but in California, the harvest for both pears and apples begins in early to mid-July and continues through November, weather permitting. This extended season allows for a steady supply of fresh, delicious pears and apples throughout the warmer months.
Peak Freshness
California pears and apples are hand-picked at the peak of freshness, ensuring that you get the best flavor and quality in every bite. The careful timing and hand-picking process ensure that harvesting of California pears and apples takes place while the fruit is at its prime. Why? So that you get unbeatable taste which fruit grown elsewhere cannot match.
Summer to Fall Delight
Contrary to popular belief, both pears and apples are not just fall-season fruits. In California, the harvest of these types of fruits begins in early to mid-July and continues through November, weather permitting. This extended season allows for a steady supply of fresh, juicy pears and crisp apples throughout the warmer months.
Discovering the Charm of Roasted Pears & Apples
Roasted pears and apples make a versatile and elegant dessert option that effortlessly combines rustic and refined flavors. The roasting process intensifies the fruits’ natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that’s really hard to beat.
Why Roasted Pears & Apples Are a Must-Try
Roasted pears and apples are not just delicious, they’re also incredibly versatile. Plate them independently with a dollop of Maple Cream, or on a larger serving dish for a crowd. The simplicity of the ingredients—pears, apples, honey, and thyme—creates an easy dessert showcasing some of California’s best produce.
Enjoying Honey Thyme Roasted Pears & Apples with Maple Cream
This recipe is a delightful blend of rustic and refined flavors. Sweet pears and apples are roasted with honey and fresh thyme and then caramelized to perfection. Paired with luscious maple-whipped mascarpone and a sprinkle of toasted California walnuts, this dish is an elegant yet simple dessert that is sure to impress.
The only thing that could possibly make this dessert even more special is pairing it with the perfect wine.
What Wine Pairs Best with this Recipe?
A bubbly sparkling wine from California or a luxurious dessert wine are both great wine pairings for this elegant dessert.
Ready to groove to the classics? Check out this California Grown Spotify playlist:
Don’t stop here! Follow us on Pinterest for more fresh and fabulous recipe inspiration. Dive into the world of CA GROWN goodness, and let’s make every meal a celebration of the Golden State’s bounty.
Honey-Thyme Roasted Pears and Apples with Maple-Whipped Mascarpone
Ingredients
For the pears and apples:
- 2 pears, halved & cored
- 2 apples halved & cored
- 2 TBSP California olive oil
- 4 TBSP honey, divided
- 1 TBSP fresh thyme
- 1 tsp salt
For the maple mascarpone:
- 1 cup Mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 TBSP maple syrup
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- salt to taste
For the garnish:
- 3 TBSP walnuts, toasted & chopped
- 1 lemon, zested into thin strips
Instructions
To make the pears and apples:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Halve and core the pears and apples. Place the halves on the parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side up. Brush the cut sides of the pears and apples with the olive oil. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of honey evenly over the cut sides, then spread all over with a spoon. Sprinkle the thyme and salt over the pears and apples.
- Roast for 20-30 minutes, depending on size, rotating the pan after 10 minutes to ensure even roasting.
- Preheat a large skillet over high heat. Working in batches, carefully transfer the roasted pears and apples to the hot skillet, cut side down. Sear for 1-2 minutes until the cut sides are golden brown in color, using the juices that have pooled in the cored parts to help caramelize them.
- Remove from the skillet and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey.
To make the maple mascarpone:
- While the pears and apples are roasting, add the mascarpone, heavy cream, maple syrup, and lemon zest to the bowl of a stand mixer. Using the paddle attachment, whip the mixture until it reaches a stiff consistency, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt to taste and set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.
To serve:
- Spread the maple mascarpone onto a serving platter. Top with the prepared pears and apples, cut side up. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and lemon zest, then serve.