Ripe quinces

The perfect autumn dessert: Baked quinces with vanilla sugar and cinnamon

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love the sweet and warm aroma of baked quinces, especially when enriched with a touch of vanilla sugar and cinnamon? This simple yet elegant dessert will not only delight your taste buds but also fill your home with a cozy and warm atmosphere.

Quinces, seasonal fruits, are renowned for their distinctive aroma and juicy texture. They have been used over time in various recipes, from compotes to cakes, being appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. Quinces are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy choice for desserts.

Ingredients:
- 4-6 medium quinces
- 2-3 tablespoons of vanilla sugar (or regular sugar, if you prefer)
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (to taste)

Preparing the quinces:
1. Start by thoroughly cleaning the quinces. Use a soft sponge to remove the fuzz from their surface. It is important to ensure they are clean, as the fuzz can affect the final texture of the dessert.
2. After cleaning, rinse the quinces under cold running water and cut them in half. Remove the core, making sure no remnants are left.
3. Place the quince halves in a heat-resistant dish, cut side up. This will allow the juices to release and caramelize during baking.

Seasoning the quinces:
4. Sprinkle the vanilla sugar mixed with cinnamon over each half of the quince. You can adjust the amounts to your taste; if you prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to add more sugar. The cinnamon adds not only a delicious flavor but also a warm aroma, evoking pleasant autumn memories.

Baking:
5. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish with quinces in the preheated oven and let them bake for 40-50 minutes. Check occasionally, and when the quinces become tender and take on a beautiful golden hue, they are ready.
6. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the quinces cool slightly before serving.

Practical tip: You can add a tablespoon of butter on top of the quinces before baking for extra flavor and a richer texture. You can also add some nuts or almonds for a crunchy contrast.

Serving suggestion:
These baked quinces are delicious served warm, alongside a portion of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm and cold is simply irresistible! If you want a touch of freshness, add a few fresh mint leaves on top.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add some ground cloves or a pinch of nutmeg to the vanilla sugar and cinnamon mixture for an even more complex flavor. You can also try using honey instead of sugar for a more natural and aromatic dessert.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
Of course! Apples or pears are excellent alternatives and behave similarly during baking.
2. How can I store baked quinces for later consumption?
Baked quinces can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them gently before serving again.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Just make sure to use vegan sugar or sweeteners and you can omit the butter, keeping the delicious taste of the quinces.

Nutritional benefits:
Quinces are rich in fiber, aiding in healthy digestion. They also contain vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and antioxidants that help combat free radicals.

These baked quinces with vanilla sugar and cinnamon are not just a simple dessert but also a true delicacy, capable of bringing joy and comfort to cool autumn evenings. Get inspired and enjoy every bite!