Place pear halves, cut side down, on cutting board. Starting about 1/2" from stem end, make 7 lengthwise cuts in each half, cutting to the bottom. Arrange pear halves, cut side down, in 11" x 7" baking dish.

In small saucepan, combine next 4 ingredients. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved. Pour sugar mixture over pears.

Bake, covered, in a preheated 350-degree oven until pears are tender (40-45 min.). Baste pears with sauce.

To Serve: Stir crème fraîche. Spread 2 tbs. onto one half of each dessert plate. Spoon 1 tbs. sauce from pears on the other side. With slotted spoon, place pear half in center of each plate; garnish with almonds, if desired. Serve immediately.

Serves 6