They are quick and easy to make, oh-so-delicious and comforting. Is there any better winter dessert than humble spiced poached pears? Ours are even more special because you can poach them in the oven, which means less time spent standing in front of the stove for you.

SERVES 4 // COOKING TIME 1 hour

INGREDIENTS
300g caster sugar
3 tbsp honey
2 star anise, plus extra to garnish
1 cinnamon stick
Zest and juice of 2 oranges
4 large pears, peeled

METHOD
1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. Combine the caster sugar, honey, star anise, cinnamon, orange juice and zest, and 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to the boil and simmer for 15 minutes to form a syrup. Strain.
3. Place the pears in a small, deep roasting dish and pour the syrup over them. Cover with foil and place in the oven for 30 minutes, turning the pears after 15 minutes.
4. Serve with syrup drizzled over the pears and garnish with star anise.