So refreshing and tasty! One of our faves lately!

There's something incredibly comforting about the aroma of poached pears gently simmering away in a slow cooker. This recipe takes me back to my childhood in our small Midwestern town, where simple, hearty desserts like this were always a family favorite. Poaching pears in a slow cooker is perfect for busy parents who want to create a delightful end to a home-cooked meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. It's a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Slow cooker poached pears are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light and refreshing option, serve the pears with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you're looking for something more indulgent, a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of toasted nuts can elevate this dish to a whole new level. They also make a lovely complement to a cheese board with crunchy nuts and a selection of cheeses.

Servings: 4

4 ripe pears, peeled and cored
3 cups of water
1/2 cup honey
1 cinnamon stick
1 vanilla bean, split
3 whole cloves
1 orange, zested and juiced

1. Begin by peeling and coring the pears. You can leave them whole or halve them if you prefer.

2. In your slow cooker, pour in the water and stir in the honey until it dissolves.

3. Add the cinnamon stick, split vanilla bean, whole cloves, and the zest and juice of the orange to the slow cooker.

4. Place the pears into the mixture, making sure they're fully submerged in the liquid.

5. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the pears are tender and infused with all the warm, spicy flavors.

6. Once cooked, carefully remove the pears and set them aside. You can strain the poaching liquid and reduce it in a saucepan if you like a thicker syrup to pour over the pears.

If your family isn't a fan of cloves or the spice blend, you can easily omit them and stick with just the cinnamon. For a richer flavor, substitute some of the water with apple cider or white wine. For picky eaters, you can replace the pears with apples, which poach beautifully as well. This recipe is also adaptable for different dietary needs; simply swap the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version.