Dutch Winter Treat: Baked Pears

When the temperatures drop in the Netherlands and winter truly settles in, Dutch kitchens turn to warm, comforting dishes that feel both simple and special. One classic is baked pears with red wine, known locally as stoofperen. This traditional winter treat is deeply rooted in Dutch food culture and is especially popular during the colder months and around special holidays.

What makes this dish so special is its simplicity. Firm pears are slowly baked or simmered in red wine with warming spices until they turn a deep ruby color and become tender, fragrant, and slightly sweet. The aroma alone—red wine, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus—instantly feels like winter.

Every family seems to have their own version. Some add sugar, others honey. Some prefer orange peel, while others swear by lemon. But the heart of the dish remains the same: patience, gentle heat, and time to let the flavors develop.

Dutch Baked Pears with Red Wine (Stoofperen)

Ingredients

• 6–8 firm baking pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)

• 2 cups dry red wine

• 1/2 cup sugar (or honey, to taste)

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3–4 whole cloves

• Peel of 1 orange or lemon (optional)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• 2 tbsp water (if thickening)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Peel the pears, leaving them whole with the stems intact if desired. Remove the bottoms slightly so they can stand upright.

3. Arrange the pears in a baking dish snugly so they don’t tip over.

4. Pour the red wine over the pears. Add the sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, citrus peel, and vanilla if using.

5. Cover the dish tightly with foil.

6. Bake for 2–3 hours, turning the pears occasionally, until they are tender and a deep red-purple color.

7. Remove the foil for the last 20–30 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce slightly.

8. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pears once cooked. Transfer the liquid to a saucepan, bring to a simmer, and whisk in cornstarch mixed with water. Cook until thickened, then pour over pears.

Serve warm or chilled. These pears are delicious on their own, spooned over vanilla ice cream, paired with yogurt, or served as a traditional Dutch side dish alongside winter meals. They keep well in the refrigerator for several days and taste even better after resting overnight.