This is a quick and easy dessert that is also a bit out of the ordinary. 4 ripe but firm pears 4 TB butter 1/4c sugar 1/4c Calvados (apple brandy) Peel, half, and core the pears. Melt half the butter in a nonstick skillet. When hot add the pears, flat side down. Sprinkle with half the sugar. Cook over medium to medium-high heat until the pears are starting to brown. Turn and sprinkle with the remaining sugar. Continue cooking and turning until lightly browned all over. Add brandy and remaining butter. Cook, shaking, until brandy reduces to a sauce. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or creme fraiche.