Honey Ricotta Stuffed Pears

These Honey Ricotta Stuffed Pears turn naturally sweet, juicy fruit into an elegant, better-for-you dessert that feels special enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight treat. Pears are gently poached in a light cinnamon-spiced liquid until tender, then filled with a creamy, lightly sweetened part-skim ricotta mixture. A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios finish the dish with just the right touch of indulgence. Because the sweetness comes primarily from the fruit itself, this dessert uses only a small amount of added honey, keeping it light while still feeling luxurious. The ricotta filling adds a boost of protein, making this a more satisfying option than many traditional desserts, and it fits beautifully into a Weight Watchers lifestyle where whole foods take center stage. Serve it warm or chilled for a dessert that's as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 wholeRipe pears, firm but ripe, halved and cored
• 3 cupwater, for poaching
• 1 wholecinnamon stick
• 1 tspvanilla extract
• 1 tbsplemon juice, to prevent browning and brighten flavor
• 1 cuppart-skim ricotta cheese
• 3 tbsphoney, divided
• 0.25 tspground cinnamon
• 2 tbspPistachios, shelled and crushed

Method

1. Halve the pears lengthwise and use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the core and seeds, creating a small well in each half.
2. In a large pot, combine the water, cinnamon stick, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the pear halves to the simmering liquid, cut-side down, and poach until just tender when pierced with a knife. 10:00
4. Carefully remove the pears with a slotted spoon and set them cut-side up on a plate to cool slightly.
5. While the pears cool, whisk together the ricotta, 2 tablespoons of honey, and ground cinnamon in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
6. Crush the pistachios lightly in a small bowl using the back of a spoon or a rolling pin.
7. Spoon the sweetened ricotta mixture into the center of each pear half, dividing evenly.
8. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of honey over the stuffed pears and sprinkle with crushed pistachios. Serve warm or chilled.