Pears Helene

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Elegant poached pears served over vanilla ice cream with rich hot fudge sauce
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Pears Helene

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 278.5

Description

Pears Helene is a classic French dessert that balances simplicity with sophisticated flavor. Juicy pear halves are gently poached in a light sugar syrup until tender, absorbing a subtle sweetness that complements their natural aroma. The warm, spiced fruit is traditionally served over a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. A drizzle of rich, dark hot fudge sauce ties the dish together, adding depth and indulgence. This elegant yet easy-to-make dessert is perfect for romantic dinners, holiday gatherings, or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of soft fruit, creamy ice cream, and chocolate sauce offers a comforting and luxurious finish to any meal.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a 10-inch skillet, combine sugar and water.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
  4. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Place pear halves, cut-side down, into the syrup.
  6. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
  7. Carefully turn the pears over to coat the other side with syrup.
  8. Remove from heat and let pears cool in the syrup until chilled, refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
  9. Just before serving, place one scoop of vanilla ice cream in each of 6 dessert dishes.
  10. Top each scoop with a chilled pear half and a drizzle of hot fudge sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 278.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.1g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 1.4mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 72.0g24%
Dietary Fiber 2.7g11%
Sugars 67.5g
Protein 0.5g1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Pear Selection: Choose firm but ripe pears, such as Bosc or Anjou, which hold their shape well during poaching.

Storage: Poached pears can be stored in their syrup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Substitutions: Canned pear halves can be used for convenience; drain and rinse before poaching briefly to warm through.

Sauce Tip: Warm the hot fudge sauce slightly before drizzling for a smoother pour.

Variation: Add a star anise or cinnamon stick to the poaching syrup for extra aromatic flavor.

Keywords: pears, poached, dessert, french, vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, chocolate, sweet, easy, elegant, fruit, summer, party, dinner, classic, vegetarian, simple, treat, indulgent, recipe
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