Peel the pears, soak in water with lemon juice. Leave the stem in tact.

Peel the pear again.

Place peeled pears into a saucepan with apple juice, add the maple syrup.

Bring to a boil. Once the juice starts to boil, lay the pears on their sides and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat.

Remove the pears and cut the pear in half from the thicker base to the stem. (not completely through)

Return the juice and maple syrup mixture to the heat and simmer until thick—staring frequently.

Add lemon zest to the cream cheese

add the 2 Tbsp maple syrup and mix well.