IngredientsFeeds 4. Takes 20 mins.

5 Conference pears

2tbsp butter

1 level tsp ground cinnamon

2tbsp unrefined soft brown sugar, light or dark


Peel the pears, cut into quarters and discard the cores. Melt the butter in a frying skillet, add the pears and pan-fry for three or four minutes, turning once or twice.

Add the cinnamon and sugar and toss well to coat. Gently cook for a further five minutes or so until the fruit has softened and turned golden brown, but still holds its natural shape. Add a dash of brandy or liqueur, if you like.

Serve the apples and pears piled in a tumble, with a bowl of thick cream, natural yoghurt or mascarpone cream cheese, or a scoop of rich vanilla bean, chocolate or coffee ice-cream.