Baked Vanilla Cardamom Nectarines Recipe
Indulge in the warmth of baked vanilla cardamom nectarines, a delightful dessert combining tender, juicy nectarines with aromatic spices, orange juice, and a hint of vanilla. Perfectly caramelized with a touch of brown sugar and butter, this dish offers a comforting balance of sweet and fragrant flavors, ideal for a cozy after-dinner treat or a special brunch addition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 nectarines, slightly firm but not over-ripe
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, granulated sugar, or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
For Serving (Optional)
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup honey almond granola
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is at the right temperature for baking the nectarines evenly and caramelizing the sugars.
- Prepare the Nectarines: Wash the nectarines thoroughly, then cut each in half and carefully remove the pits. Place the halved nectarines cut side up in a baking dish, arranging them snugly but not overlapping.
- Mix the Spice and Sweetener Blend: In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar (or your choice of sweetener), ground cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly into the sugar.
- Add Flavorings to Nectarines: Drizzle the orange juice and vanilla bean paste or extract over the nectarines, ensuring each half is coated with the fragrant liquid to enhance the natural fruit flavors and provide moisture for baking.
- Sprinkle Sugar and Spices: Evenly sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture over the nectarines, covering the fruit to ensure a sweet, aromatic caramelized crust forms as they bake.
- Dot with Butter: Distribute the pieces of unsalted butter over the nectarines. The butter will melt slowly during baking, enriching the sauce with a silky texture and buttery depth.
- Bake the Nectarines: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the nectarines are tender and bubbling, and the top is golden with caramelized sugar and spices.
- Serve Warm: Carefully remove the nectarines from the oven. Serve immediately, optionally topping each portion with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a sprinkle of honey almond granola, and a pinch of freshly chopped rosemary for an elevated flavor and texture contrast.
Notes
- Choose slightly firm but ripe nectarines to ensure they soften during baking without becoming mushy.
- Vanilla bean paste provides a richer flavor than extract but either works well.
- The optional toppings add texture and a fresh herbal note that complements the warm spices.
- You can substitute nectarines with peaches for a similar taste and texture.
- Adjust sugar according to your desired sweetness level or dietary needs.
