Save Enjoy the delightful blend of juicy ripe pears coated in smooth, melted dark chocolate and finished with a sprinkle of finely chopped mixed nuts. This elegant dessert or snack comes together quickly using fresh fruit and rich chocolate, heated gently to create a creamy coating. The pears are sliced and skewered for easy dipping, then chilled optionally for a firm and refreshing finish. A versatile treat for entertaining or personal indulgence, offering a perfect balance of sweet fruit, rich cocoa, and crunchy texture.
The first time I made these chocolate covered pears was actually by accident. I had planned a fancy dinner party dessert but completely forgot to buy one of the key ingredients, so I raided my fruit bowl and chocolate stash instead. My guests couldn't stop talking about them, and honestly, they've become my go-to elegant dessert ever since.
Last autumn, I made a batch for my book club and watched as normally reserved women reached for seconds without hesitation. There's something about fruit dipped in chocolate that makes people feel like they're being indulgent while still eating something fresh.
Ingredients
- Firm ripe pears: The texture matters here, overripe pears will make everything messy and sad.
- Dark chocolate: I've found 60 to 70 percent cocoa hits the perfect balance without overwhelming the delicate pear flavor.
- Mixed nuts: Use whatever you have in your pantry or go all in on one variety like toasted pistachios.
- Coconut oil: This little trick makes the chocolate coating smoother and helps it set beautifully.
Instructions
- Prep the pears:
- Wash and completely dry each pear, then slice in half lengthwise and remove the core. Gently push a wooden skewer into the stem end of each half.
- Melt the chocolate:
- Set up a double boiler with simmering water underneath and melt your chocolate with coconut oil, stirring until it's glossy and smooth.
- Dip and sprinkle:
- Dip each pear about two thirds of the way into the chocolate, let the excess drip off, then immediately press the nuts into the coating.
- Set and serve:
- Place each pear on parchment paper and chill for 20 minutes if you want the chocolate to firm up completely.
Save My daughter now requests these for her birthday instead of cake, which says everything about how special they feel to eat. Something about the combination feels grown up yet playful at the same time.
Making Ahead
You can prep everything hours before serving, just keep the chocolate warm and dip right before guests arrive. The pears will start to oxidize if cut too far in advance, so I do the slicing last.
Chocolate Options
White chocolate creates stunning contrast and pairs beautifully with dark chocolate drizzled on top. Milk chocolate makes the whole experience more kid friendly if that's your audience.
Nut Variations
Don't be afraid to experiment with what you have on hand or what sounds good to you. The crunch factor really makes these special.
- Toasted hazelnuts add a sophisticated European touch.
- Crystallized ginger brings warmth and unexpected spice.
- Crushed pretzels create the most incredible sweet salty situation.
Save These chocolate covered pares never fail to make me feel like I've pulled off something magical in the kitchen with almost no effort at all.
