Slow Cooker Poached Pears in Wine
These poached pears make an elegant dessert for a special dinner or holiday meal. The recipe is perfect for Valentine’s day.
by Diana Rattray
These elegant pears make a fabulous dessert for Valentine’s Day or a special dinner. The pears are cooked to tender perfection in the slow cooker with a sweet orange and red wine sauce. Serve them with whipped cream or cream cheese along with biscotti or butter cookies, if you like.
Slow Cooker Poached Pears in Wine
Ingredients
- 6 Bosc pears, or Anjou (unpeeled)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet
- 1 cinnamon stick, about 3 inches in length
Instructions
- Arrange the pears upright in the slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, juice, and wine. Break the cinnamon stick into 2 pieces and place in the slow cooker. Pour the juice mixture over the pears.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a skewer or tip of a knife. Alternatively, cook the pears on HIGH for about 2 hours.
- Uncover the slow cooker and let the pears cool, basting frequently. Arrange the pears on a serving dish. Put the juices in a saucepan and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, until reduced and flavors are more concentrated. Pour the juices over the pears.
- Refrigerate for at least an hour, or until thoroughly chilled.