Name: Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 nectarines, halved and pitted; ¼ cup honey; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; Vanilla ice cream (optional topping)

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Short Description

I baked tender, juicy nectarines in a luscious cinnamon honey sauce until the juices bubbled—then topped them with creamy vanilla ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert.

Baked Nectarines with Cinnamon Honey Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and elegant this dessert is. The natural sweetness of the nectarines shines, while the warm cinnamon honey glaze adds cozy depth. Plus, baking brings out the fruit’s juiciness, and the contrast of cold ice cream makes it feel completely special—without a ton of effort.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 nectarines, halved and pitted
¼ cup honey
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla ice cream (optional topping)

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Spray a baking dish (about 9×9 in) with non-stick cooking spray and arrange the nectarine halves cut‑side up.
Spoon the cinnamon honey sauce over each nectarine, letting it seep into the centers and pool around the fruit.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the nectarines are soft and the sauce is bubbly.
Remove from the oven, top each half with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired, and drizzle with any remaining juices before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 halves (about 3 servings, depending on how many halves per person)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap nectarines for ripe peaches or plums for a different flavor twist.
For a richer sauce, I stir in a tablespoon of melted butter before baking.
A sprinkle of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top adds delightful crunch.
Adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the sauce gives a spicy warmth.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave single halves in 20‑second bursts until heated through. Add ice cream or fresh cream right before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

What kind of nectarines should I use?

I pick ripe but firm nectarines: they should smell sweet but still hold their shape when baked.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes—I’ll mix the sauce and arrange the fruit in the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, I bake it directly from cold, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Do I have to add ice cream?

No—while I love adding ice cream, the nectarines are delicious on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Absolutely. I’ve subbed maple syrup or agave and found they work well—just taste the sauce and adjust sweetness to your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! It’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

Conclusion

I adore how this dessert transforms simple fruit into something comforting and elegant. The cinnamon honey sauce enhances the nectarines without overwhelming them, and the warm fruit paired with cold ice cream really elevates the experience. It’s one of my favorite easy desserts to share, and I hope I’ll make it a favorite in your kitchen too!