Butter-Baked Pears With Fruit And Nut Stuffing

• 1/4 c. finely chopped dried apricots
• 1/4 c. finely chopped pecans
• 4 Tbsp. butter, divided
• 2 large (about 1 lb.) firm ripe pears
• 1/4 c. pure maple syrup

1. In a small bowl, combine apricots and pecans.
2. Using a fork, mash in 1 tablespoon butter until combined.
3. Set aside.
4. Cut pears in half lengthwise; using a melon baler or small spoon to remove cores, leaving a 1 1/2-inch diameter hole.
5. Cut a thin slice from the bottom of each pear so it does not tip.
6. In a 9-inch square microwavable baking pan, place pears with narrow ends toward the center.
7. Fill each pear with apricot mixture; set aside.
8. In a glass measure, place maple syrup and remaining 3 tablespoons butter; microwave on High (100% power) until pears are tender, about 6 minutes, basting pears with sauce halfway through cooking time.
9. Let stand 10 minutes.
10. Serve warm with low-fat vanilla yogurt or frozen vanilla yogurt, if desired.
11. Yields 4 portions.

apricots, pecans, butter, firm ripe pears, maple syrup

Taken from www.cookbooks.com/Recipe-Details.aspx?id=452525 (may not work)