MAPLE BAKED GOLDEN PEARS

Steps:

• 1. Arrange the pears cut-side up in an 8-inch square glass baking dish. Whisk the apple juice and syrup in a small heavy saucepan over medium heat until the syrup dissolves. Whisk in the butter.
• 2. Pour the sauce over the pears, and sprinkle them with the chopped nuts.
• 3. Bake in a preheated 400-degree oven until the pears are tender and beginning to brown, basting occasionally with the juices, for about 35 minutes.
• 4. Serve with vanilla bean ice cream, if desired.