This Spiced Baked Fruit recipe features tender apples and pears baked with cinnamon, ginger, and lemon, then topped with juicy pomegranate seeds and crunchy pecans. Naturally sweet and fragrant, it’s a wholesome dish that works equally well as a cozy dessert or a nutritious breakfast topping. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this is an easy recipe you’ll come back to all season long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Baking intensifies the natural sweetness of the fruit, while the warm spices add a festive aroma and flavor. It’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any table. You can serve it with yogurt for breakfast, spoon it over pancakes or oatmeal, or pair it with vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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apples (such as Honeycrisp)
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bosc pears
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ground cinnamon
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ground ginger
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lemon juice
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coconut oil, melted
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pomegranate seeds
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pecans (optional)
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Core and slice apples and pears into thin, lengthwise slices, about ½ inch thick. Place in a mixing bowl or directly into a large baking dish.
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Add cinnamon, ginger, and lemon juice. Drizzle melted coconut oil over the fruit. Toss until evenly coated.
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Spread fruit evenly in the baking dish. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
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Remove from oven, sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and pecans, then return to oven for 7–8 minutes to toast the nuts.
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Serve warm on its own or with your favorite toppings.
Servings and timing
Yield: 6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Variations
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Other fruit: Try adding persimmons, plums, or peaches depending on the season.
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Nut-free: Omit pecans or substitute with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
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Sweeter version: Drizzle maple syrup or honey over the top before serving.
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Extra spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for more depth.
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Citrus twist: Add orange zest along with the lemon juice for brightness.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The coconut oil will solidify when chilled but will melt again when heated.
FAQs
Can I use other apples besides Honeycrisp?
Yes, any firm apple variety like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith will work.
Do I need to peel the fruit?
No, peeling is optional. The skins soften while baking and add fiber.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the fruit mixture and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake just before serving.
Is this recipe sweet enough without added sugar?
Yes, baking enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness. You can drizzle maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
Can I skip the coconut oil?
You can substitute with butter or another neutral oil, though coconut oil adds a subtle richness.
How do I remove pomegranate seeds easily?
Cut the fruit in half and submerge in a bowl of water while loosening the seeds—they’ll sink, while the white pith floats.
Can I freeze baked fruit?
Freezing isn’t ideal, as the texture may become mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated from the fridge.
What can I serve this with for breakfast?
It’s great over oatmeal, yogurt, pancakes, or waffles.
What about serving it as dessert?
Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of mascarpone for a decadent option.
Can I use different spices?
Yes, cloves, cardamom, or even pumpkin pie spice are great alternatives to customize the flavor.
Conclusion
Spiced Baked Fruit with Apples and Pears is a warm, fragrant dish that’s both simple and versatile. With its balance of sweet fruit, warming spices, and crunchy toppings, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is naturally wholesome. Perfect for cozy breakfasts or lighter desserts, it’s a seasonal favorite that will fill your kitchen with the comforting aromas of fall and winter.
Spiced Baked Fruit (Apples & Pears)
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Spiced Baked Fruit with Apples and Pears is a naturally sweet, fragrant dish that combines tender baked fruit with warm spices, pomegranate seeds, and crunchy pecans. Light, wholesome, and versatile, it can be served as a cozy dessert, a healthy breakfast topper, or a festive side dish during the holidays.
Ingredients
3 apples (such as Honeycrisp), cored and sliced
3 bosc pears, cored and sliced
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup pecans (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Core and slice apples and pears into ½-inch thick slices. Place in a mixing bowl or directly in a baking dish.
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Add cinnamon, ginger, and lemon juice. Drizzle melted coconut oil over the fruit and toss until evenly coated.
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Spread fruit evenly in the baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, until softened and lightly browned.
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Remove from oven, sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and pecans, and return to the oven for 7–8 minutes to toast the nuts.
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Serve warm on its own or with toppings of choice.
Notes
- Any firm apple variety like Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith can be used.
- Skins can stay on for added fiber and texture.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.
- Try nut-free alternatives like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Add nutmeg, cardamom, or orange zest for more depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
