Poached Pears with Marsala Sauce

This elegant dessert combines tender, gently poached pears with a rich and flavorful Marsala sauce that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. It’s surprisingly simple to make but sure to impress your guests.

Chef's Cooking Tips

Choose firm, ripe pears that will hold their shape while poaching.
Simmer the pears gently to avoid breaking them apart.
Use a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids from the sauce for a smooth finish.

Ingredients 0/8

4 Bartlett pears, about 8 oz. each ½ cup Holland House® Marsala Cooking Wine 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon cinnamon 2 tablespoons butter Vanilla ice cream ¼ teaspoon Toasted pecans

Why This Dish Is So Special

This dessert is both elegant and simple, combining the natural sweetness of pears with a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The warm spices and Marsala wine add depth and a touch of luxury.

Step 1

Cut the pears in half lengthwise and scooping out the cores. In a small bowl, mix together the Marsala wine, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the sugar dissolves.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the Marsala mixture and let it cook until it starts to bubble. Place the pears cut side down in the pan, cover, and let them simmer gently over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes.

Step 3

Once the pears are tender, take the pan off the heat and let everything sit for 30 to 45 minutes so the flavors can soak in and the pears can cool a bit.

Step 4

When you’re ready to serve, spoon each pear half into a small bowl. Give the sauce in the pan a good stir and drizzle a teaspoon or two over each pear. Finish with a small scoop of ice cream and, if you like, sprinkle on some toasted pecans for a little crunch. Serve right away and enjoy!

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By David Brown

David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.

How To Serve It Best

Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or fresh mint leaves can add a nice contrast in texture and color.

How To Store For Later

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or serve chilled—both work well depending on your preference. The sauce may thicken when chilled; simply warm it slightly before serving.