Poached Pears in Mulled Wine

Poached fruit is a simple yet sophisticated dessert that will wow your guests this holiday season. It is, in fact, a little trick I use when I don't want to make a complicated dessert. It's so easy to just grab apples or pears and poach them in wine which is something I always have on had.These mulled wine poached pears are the perfect classic dessert for fall and winter. Your guests will be impressed with the presentation, and the flavor is subtle and light which after a heavy meal can be just the perfect finish. Top them with homemade whipped cream for a festive end of meal treat.

Mulled Wine Poached Pears

Serves 8

You will need:

- 8 pears

- 1 bottle of Red Wine (I like to use a Merlot, or a Pinot Noir)

- 3/4 cup sugar- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

- 3 star anise

- 1 cup whipping cream and 2 tablespoons sugar

To prepare:

Peel the whole pears leaving the stem in tact.In a large cast iron pot, empty the bottle of wine, add the sugar, cinnamon, star anise.Place the peeled pears on their side, then simmer them in the wine for about 15 minutes, occasionally with a large spoon roll the pears to evenly cook them. Turn off the heat, and leave the pears to macerate in the wine (this literally can be all day). Again occasionally turning them to evenly coat the pears. The pears will become a beautiful pink color from the mulled red wine.In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a whisk, add the whipping cream and sugar whip until stiff peaks form about 5 minutes.To serve:Warm the pears through about 3 minutes and place the warm pears in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of the mulled wine. Add a dollop of whipped cream and serve.NOTE: This is the perfect make ahead dessert, and it will truly impress your guests! xx Annette