Pears & prunes in mulled (well, sort of) wine

A wonderful pudding – best served with tons of double or clotted cream

Pears roasted in red wine

A no-fuss, low-fat dessert – no need to peel the pears, just pop them in the oven and wait for the delicious sauce to form

Marzipan Eccles tarts

This fun spin on the traditional Lancashire fruit cakes uses leftover marzipan to make irresistible individual pies

Poached pears in spiced red wine

A completely fat-free pud that isn’t boring. It’s not just Good Food, it’s genius

Prosciutto-wrapped chicken & leek terrine

Contains pork – recipe is for non-Muslims only
Gordon’s make-ahead terrine is the perfect starter when you’re entertaining a crowd

Apple & pear fritters

Whisked egg whites in the batter give a light, golden coating to the fruit – delicious with vanilla ice cream

Pear & toffee muffins

These gooey muffins are delicious warm when the toffee is still melty – you can reheat them in the microwave

Flourless chocolate & pear cake

A light, but luscious cake made with hazelnuts – serve a slice for dessert with a dollop of crème fraîche

Cranberry, fresh pear & cinnamon bubbles

Wonderfully Christmas-scented fizz – a brilliant way to get the party started

Chunky pear & apricot flappers

If your kids prefer other dried fruit to apricots and pears then it’s fine to substitute – try raisins, cranberries, blueberries or papaya.

Laura’s fruity chutney

Chutney is one of the easiest preserves to make – and its punchy flavours bring out the best in cheese and cold meats

Pear, hazelnut & chocolate cake

Moist, fruity pear, hazelnut and chocolate cake – try it warm with cream as a teatime treat