Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a perfect light dessert or an elegant appetizer. Using simple ingredients, you can create something truly special that impresses your guests or satisfies your cravings. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh pears!

How to Make Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Ingredients

• 2 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
• Pinch of cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in the dish.
4. Drizzle the pears with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over them.
5. Fill the center of each pear half with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts if you are using them.
6. Drizzle honey on top of the filled pears.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pears are tender and lightly caramelized.
8. Once done, garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.

This dish can perfectly serve as a light dessert or an elegant appetizer.

How to Serve Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Serve the baked pears warm on a plate, perhaps with a drizzle of extra honey for added sweetness. They pair well with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert. For an appetizer, serve them on a cheese platter alongside crackers and additional fresh fruits.

How to Store Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

If you have leftovers, let the baked pears cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

Tips to Make Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

• Choose pears that are ripe but still firm to avoid them becoming too mushy when baked.
• Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm flavor twist.
• If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs before baking.

Variation

You can change up the cheese by using goat cheese instead of feta for a different taste. Additionally, try swapping dried cranberries for other dried fruits like cherries or apricots to customize the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the pears and fill them before baking. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

2. What if I don’t have feta cheese?
   You can substitute feta with crumbled goat cheese or even cream cheese for a creamy texture.

3. Can I add other nuts?
   Absolutely! Feel free to use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for different flavors and textures.