Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce Recipe

Imagine the aroma of ripe fruit mingling with sweet, spiced syrup as it fills your kitchen—Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce are all that and more, transforming just a handful of ingredients into an effortlessly elegant dessert. This recipe beautifully balances the juicy tartness of baked nectarines with the warmth of cinnamon and floral notes of honey, all crowned with a scoop of creamy ice cream. Not only is it incredibly simple, but it’s also stunningly delicious, making it perfect for everything from weeknight treats to impromptu celebrations with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only four core ingredients, each one is essential in creating the flavor and magic of this dessert. The quality you choose really shines through—these elements combine for juicy, caramelized fruit and a sauce that’s truly spoon-licking good.

• Nectarines: Pick ripe, fragrant nectarines for the best flavor and texture; their natural sweetness intensifies as they bake.
• Honey: Use your favorite variety—clover, wildflower, or orange blossom—for a nuanced sweetness that melts into the fruit.
• Cinnamon: This warming spice adds aromatic depth and pairs beautifully with stone fruits.
• Vanilla: Just a bit of vanilla rounds out the sauce, making it taste indulgent and rich.
• Vanilla ice cream (or your favorite): A creamy, cool contrast to the warm, spiced nectarines—totally optional, but absolutely heavenly.

How to Make Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce

Step 1: Mix the Cinnamon Honey Sauce

Start by whisking together honey, cinnamon, and vanilla in a small bowl. This golden sauce drapes the fruit in sweetness and spice, setting the stage for all the caramelized magic to come. The aroma alone hints at just how good this dessert will be!

Step 2: Prep the Nectarines

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and set out a baking dish lightly coated with non-stick spray. Halve and pit your nectarines, then nestle them cut side up in the dish, so they’re ready to become syrupy and tender.

Step 3: Pour and Fill

Generously spoon the cinnamon honey sauce over each nectarine half, letting it collect in the center and drip invitingly down the sides. If you like, reserve a bit of the sauce for a drizzle at serving time—it’s a move you won’t regret.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until the nectarines are soft and your kitchen is perfumed with sweet spice. The sauce will bubble and thicken, turning irresistibly syrupy.

Step 5: Serve with Style

To serve, plate up a warm nectarine half for each guest, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and finish with those delicious pan juices (or that reserved honey sauce). The ice cream melts into the warm fruit, creating a luscious finale.

How to Serve Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce

Garnishes

Finish your Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce with a flourish—a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds, a few curls of lemon zest, or even a fresh mint leaf create a gourmet look and add extra layers of flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

This dessert is showstopping on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple shortbread cookie or a crisp butter wafer for crunch. For a dinner party, a platter of mixed summer berries alongside creates a colorful, inviting spread.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce individually, or arrange several halves on a large platter surrounded by scoops of ice cream, letting guests help themselves family-style. For a special brunch, spoon the fruit and sauce over thick slices of pound cake or yogurt parfaits.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce, simply transfer leftovers (without the ice cream) into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen, so they taste even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked nectarines and their sauce for up to one month. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

Reheating

You can reheat Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce gently in the microwave for 30-second bursts, or cover with foil and warm in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) until just heated through. Add a fresh scoop of ice cream when serving.

FAQs

Can I use peaches or plums instead of nectarines?

Absolutely! Peaches and plums both make gorgeous substitutes in this recipe. Their natural juiciness and flavor pair beautifully with the cinnamon honey sauce—it’s a fantastic way to enjoy whatever stone fruit you have on hand.

Do I have to use vanilla ice cream, or are there other options?

Vanilla ice cream is classic for a reason, but you can change things up with coconut, butter pecan, or even a luxurious Greek yogurt. The goal is to add a creamy, cool element that melts into the warm fruit and sauce.

Should I peel the nectarines?

No need! The skin becomes soft during baking and helps the nectarines hold their shape. If you really prefer them peeled, you can do so, but you might find the presentation and texture are best with the skins left on.

Can I double the recipe for a bigger group?

Yes, Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce scales up easily. Just use a larger baking dish, and be sure to double the honey-cinnamon-vanilla sauce so every piece is nicely coated and there’s extra for drizzling.

Is there a vegan option for this dessert?

Definitely! Swap the honey for agave nectar or maple syrup, and serve with your favorite non-dairy ice cream for a plant-based, crowd-pleasing treat that keeps all the delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so inviting about sharing Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce—the kind of treat that feels special but never fussy. Give it a whirl the next time you want a cozy, sun-kissed dessert with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. I can’t wait to hear how they turn out in your own kitchen!

Print