Ripe quinces with flavored nuts

The baked quince and aromatic nuts dessert is a perfect choice for autumn, when seasonal fruits delight us with their divine flavors and juicy texture. This simple yet refined recipe will transform often-overlooked quinces into sweet delights that will make autumn celebrations even more special.

Total time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 large, ripe quinces
- A handful of nuts (approximately 100-150g)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting at serving)

A brief history
Quinces have been cultivated for thousands of years and have been valued in various cultures for their intense aroma and crunchy texture. These fruits are often used in desserts or jams, but when baked, they become a true delight, transforming into a rustic yet elegant dish. Nuts, on the other hand, have been an integral part of human nutrition since ancient times, adding texture and flavor to this dessert.

Step by step: Preparing baked quinces with aromatic nuts

1. Preparing the quinces:
Start by washing the quinces well under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities, as the quince peel is edible and will add extra flavor to the dessert.

2. Peeling and removing the seeds:
Use a sharp knife to cut each quince in half, then carefully remove the seeds from the inside. This will create a perfect space to add the nut meat, which will bake and become delicious and fragrant.

3. Baking the quinces:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the quince halves in a baking dish, cut side up. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture, so the quinces bake evenly. Bake for 20 minutes.

4. Preparing the nut meat:
While the quinces are baking, chop the nuts in a food processor or with a knife. Do not turn them into powder; you want to keep larger pieces to add texture to the dessert. You can use various types of nuts, but Romanian walnuts or pecans are particularly suitable for this recipe.

5. Adding the nuts:
After the quinces have baked for 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Fill each cavity with the chopped nut meat, being careful not to overfill. Place the dish back in the oven, without foil, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the nut meat becomes golden and crunchy. Check with a fork; if it goes in easily, the quinces are ready!

6. Serving:
The dessert can be enjoyed warm or cold. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving. These baked quinces with aromatic nuts pair perfectly with a scoop of Greek yogurt or a dollop of sour cream for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips
- Variations: You can experiment with other ingredients, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to add an extra note of flavor. You can also try adding raisins or dried apricots for a pleasant contrast of textures.
- Share: This recipe is perfect for family or friend gatherings. Serving the baked quinces on a beautiful platter will add an air of elegance to your table.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of baked quinces with nuts has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of nuts used. Quinces are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while nuts provide healthy fats and protein, making this dessert not only delicious but also nutritious.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! Brazil nuts or almonds can also be an excellent choice for this dessert.
- How long can I keep baked quinces?
Baked quinces can be stored in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. A quick reheating in the oven or microwave will restore their warm and delicious texture.
- Can baked quinces be frozen?
It is recommended to consume them fresh, but if you want, you can freeze them. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Savor every bite of this autumn dessert that will remind you of the warm and comforting flavors of the season. Whether you choose to serve them plain or with a sprinkle of sugar, baked quinces with aromatic nuts are sure to be a treat that will impress anyone. Enjoy!