Indulge in the divine flavors of Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese. This easy yet elegant dessert is perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall and holiday seasons. Each bite of tender pear is infused with a delightful blend of sweet honey, savory blue cheese, and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, creating a harmonious fusion that will please your taste buds and impress your guests. Plus, it can be whipped up with minimal effort, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones.
This dish not only appeals to your palate but also stands out visually. The colors of the fresh mixed berries against the golden pears create an elegant presentation, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this dessert is sure to bring warmth and joy to your heart and home.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet and savory elements creates a sensorial experience.
- Healthy Yet Indulgent: Using fresh fruits, nuts, and minimal sugar makes it a wholesome dessert option.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and few ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings.
- Customizable: Modify the toppings or add spices to cater to personal taste preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into the cooking process, get your kitchen squared away. Start by gathering all your ingredients: ripe pears, mixed berries, walnuts, blue cheese, butter, honey, and cinnamon. Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) to facilitate even cooking.
For tools, you will need a small baking dish—line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup or grease it lightly to prevent sticking. A sharp knife is essential for halving and coring the pears, while a cutting board will provide a stable workspace. If you haven’t toasted your walnuts yet, do so lightly in a pan over medium heat to enhance their flavor. Once you have everything ready, you’ll be set for a seamless cooking experience.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett), halved and cored
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted)
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing the oven in advance ensures that your pears bake evenly and reach a lovely golden-brown hue.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
Halve the pears lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the cores carefully. For stability during baking, trim the bottoms slightly so they sit flat on your baking dish. This step not only helps prevent them from tipping over but also makes for a more enticing presentation.
Step 3: Butter the Pears
Brush the cut side of each pear half with the melted butter. This adds flavor and helps the pears caramelize beautifully in the oven. Place the buttered halves cut side up in your prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Fill the Pears
Next, fill the hollowed-out cavities of the pears with a colorful mix of fresh berries, chopped walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese. Be generous in your filling, allowing the flavors to meld as they bake.
Step 5: Drizzle and Sprinkle
Finish the preparation by drizzling honey over the filled pears and sprinkling them with cinnamon. This will create a delicious glaze that enhances both the sweetness and aromatic qualities of the dish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pears in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they begin to soften and turn golden. You’ll know they’re ready when the pears are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and, if desired, garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an added touch of elegance. Serve the warm baked pears with pan juices spooned over the top to amplify the flavors. Enjoy this delightful dessert with family and friends!
Variations
- Protein: Add diced bacon or prosciutto to the filling for a savory twist.
- Vegetables: Serve the baked pears alongside sautéed greens or roasted root vegetables for a complete meal.
- Spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger for warmth and complexity.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure your pears are ripe for the best flavor and texture—slightly soft to the touch is ideal.
- Toasting nuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes intensifies their flavor; watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
- Serve the dish warm with a glass of dessert wine for a luxurious experience.
Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling based on seasonal fruits available to you, such as figs or pomegranate seeds.
- To make preparation even easier, prepare the pears a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 240 per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 80mg
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
How ripe should the pears be?
Pears should be ripe but firm. They should yield slightly to pressure but not be overly soft.
Can this dessert be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the pears up to a few hours in advance and bake them just before serving for the best texture.
What serving suggestions are best?
This dish pairs wonderfully with ice cream or can be served as a standalone dessert.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese is not just an easy dessert; it’s an experience that tantalizes the taste buds and showcases the beautiful flavors of seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises satisfaction and elegance in every bite. Don’t hesitate to explore variations or share your own twist on this delightful dish. Remember to comment below with your experiences, and we invite you to share this recipe with others who would love to create a memorable dessert. Happy baking!
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Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese is a delightful dessert that combines sweet and savory flavors in an elegant presentation.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett), halved and cored
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted)
- ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing the oven in advance ensures that your pears bake evenly and reach a lovely golden-brown hue.
- Prepare the Pears: Halve the pears lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the cores carefully. For stability during baking, trim the bottoms slightly so they sit flat on your baking dish.
- Butter the Pears: Brush the cut side of each pear half with the melted butter. This adds flavor and helps the pears caramelize beautifully in the oven.
- Fill the Pears: Next, fill the hollowed-out cavities of the pears with a colorful mix of fresh berries, chopped walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
- Drizzle and Sprinkle: Finish the preparation by drizzling honey over the filled pears and sprinkling them with cinnamon.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the pears in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they begin to soften and turn golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an added touch of elegance.
Notes
Make sure your pears are ripe for the best flavor and texture; slightly soft to the touch is ideal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Protein: 5 g