Core the pears from the bottom, leaving the stems in place. Peel with a vegetable peeler. Slice a piece off the bottom of each pear so the fruit sits well on a dish.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, blend together the sugar and water. Once the sugar is dissolved, add the pears. Cover and simmer for 10 to 20 minutes, until pears are just soft. Remove the saucepan from the stove.

Stir in the vanilla. Allow the pears to cool in the pan, then transfer the pan to the refrigerator.

In a bowl, mix together the nuts, powdered sugar, and milk.

In the meantime, create the chocolate sauce by placing the water, sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Remove the pan from the stove and stir in the chocolate. Stir until all the chocolate is smooth and melted. Allow to cool slightly.

To serve, drain the pears and spoon the nut mixture into their cavities. Place each pear on a dessert plate. Spoon chocolate sauce over each pear. Serve with the remaining chocolate sauce on the side.