Baked Pears with Cottage Cheese and Cookies

Discover the delightful fusion of flavors in this baked pears dessert filled with creamy cottage cheese and topped with crunchy cookie crumbs. This dessert is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of sweet and savory elements. The subtle sweetness of ripe pears combined with the creamy texture of cottage cheese offers a unique taste experience. The addition of almond syrup enhances the flavor profile, adding a nutty aroma to the dish. A sprinkle of vanilla sugar and cinnamon gives it a warm, comforting aroma that's perfect for cozy evenings. The dessert is easy to prepare in just under an hour, making it a go-to choice for both everyday indulgence and special occasions. Not only is this dessert delicious, but it is also a healthier alternative to many traditional sweet dishes. Enjoy it as it is, or drizzle some extra almond syrup or chocolate sauce over the top for an extra layer of decadence. You can easily adjust the ingredients to cater to different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can savor this delightful dessert.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 ripe pears
• 180 g cottage cheese
• 3 tbsp almond syrup
• 3-4 shortbread cookies

Spices

• 1/2 tsp vanilla sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Preparation Time

• Total time: 40 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese with almond syrup and vanilla sugar until smooth. This creates a flavorful filling for the pears.
3. If you don't have almond syrup on hand, substitute with sugar and almond essence, which are easily available in most stores.
4. Wash the pears thoroughly and slice them in half lengthwise.
5. Using a spoon or a melon baller, carefully scoop out the cores of the pears to create a cavity for the filling.
6. Place the pear halves on the prepared baking tray.
7. Fill each pear half with an equal amount of the cottage cheese mixture, pressing it into the cavity.
8. Sprinkle the filled pears with cinnamon for an additional touch of warmth and flavor.
9. Bake the pears in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes.
10. While the pears are baking, take your shortbread cookies and crush them into small pieces.
11. After 15 minutes of baking, remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle the cookie crumbs evenly over the tops of the pears.
12. Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cookie topping is golden and crisp.
13. Remove the baked pears from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
14. For added indulgence, drizzle with more almond syrup or some chocolate sauce just before serving.
15. Serve warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
16. This dessert can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
17. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy chilled.
18. This elegant dessert pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
19. Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness and spices according to your personal taste preferences.
20. Enjoy the delicate balance of flavors as the creamy, sweet, and slightly crunchy textures come together in each bite.

Tips

• Substitute almond syrup with honey or maple syrup for different flavor profiles.
• Use ricotta cheese as an alternative to cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts for added crunch.
• For a vegan option, substitute with plant-based cottage cheese and syrup.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 7g
• Fats: 5g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies for the topping.
• Low-Sugar: Opt for sugar-free or natural sweeteners.
• Nut-Free: Omit almond syrup and use vanilla extract or other flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
• Pair with a warm cup of herbal tea or a glass of dessert wine.
• Garnish with a mint leaf for a pop of color.

Best Places

• The Dessert Bar - Savor eclectic dessert options in a modern setting. Location: 35 Canal St, New York, USA.
• Sweet Tooth Cafe - Famous for its artisan baked goods and warm ambience. Location: 22 Rue Saint-Dominique, Paris, France.
• Pearfect Bakes - Delights guests with innovative fruit-based desserts. Location: 14 Spring St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Cottage Delight - A charming spot known for its cheese-themed desserts. Location: 110 Kensington High St, London, UK.
• La Dolce Vita - Italian desserts with a unique twist. Location: 3 Via Roma, Rome, Italy.
• Pearly’s Dessert Lounge - Luxurious treats with a vintage charm. Location: 20 Wai Man Rd, Hong Kong, China.
• Cinnamon Bliss - Spiced desserts that capture the heart. Location: 55 Well St, Bath, England.
• Happy Endings - Offers a wide variety of creative and playful sweets. Location: 9 Beach Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
• Vanilla Dreams - Known for its variety in desserts and cozy atmosphere. Location: 19 Orchard Rd, Singapore.
• Sweet Escape - Delightful pastries and beyond await you. Location: 5 Leaf Ave, Toronto, Canada.