Baked Pears with Cranberries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
Indulge in the Sweet and Savory Delight of Baked Pears
There’s something undeniably special about the combination of sweet and savory flavors, especially when it comes to baked fruits. This recipe for Baked Pears with Cranberries, Honey, Walnuts, and Blue Cheese captures the essence of fall, making it a perfect dish for cozy nights or festive gatherings. When I first tried this recipe, the warm, caramelized pears paired with the tangy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts blew me away. It’s one of those wonderfully simple, yet elegant desserts that feels both special and comforting at the same time.
Reasons to Try This Dish
Why should you add baked pears to your culinary repertoire? First and foremost, they’re incredibly versatile—a perfect balance of flavors that can easily transition from a sweet dessert to a sophisticated appetizer. Whether you’re entertaining guests, preparing a holiday spread, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is a delightful way to showcase the flavors of the season.
"These baked pears are a family favorite! The combination of cranberries, walnuts, and blue cheese is pure magic!"
Plus, they’re quick to prepare and can be made with ingredients you might already have on hand. Not only do they look stunning on a plate, but they also provide a wonderfully warm and comforting experience—ideal for fall evenings or holiday feasts.
Preparing Baked Pears with Cranberries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
Making these delicious baked pears is easier than you might think—let’s take it step by step. You’ll be impressed by how straightforward the process is while your kitchen fills with delightful aromas.
- Preheat the oven: Start by getting your oven ready at 375°F (190°C).
- Prep the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish that keeps the pear halves snug.
- Arrange the pears: Place the cored and halved pears cut-side up in the dish.
- Brush with oil or butter: Lightly coat them with olive oil or melted butter for that perfect caramelization.
- Mix the filling: Combine your dried cranberries and chopped walnuts in a small bowl and fill the pear cavities.
- Prepare the honey mixture: In another bowl, whisk together honey, orange juice, and cinnamon before drizzling half over the pears.
- Bake the pears: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle blue cheese over the warm pears and return to the oven to soften.
- Final touches: Drizzle the remaining honey mixture, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.
What You’ll Need
To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 100 g blue cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon orange juice or water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh thyme leaves or rosemary (optional)
- Cracked black pepper (optional)
Feel free to substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese for a milder flavor, or use pecans instead of walnuts for a different texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the dish: Lightly grease a baking dish to hold the pears.
- Position the pears: Arrange the pear halves with the cut side facing up.
- Brush with fat: Lightly coat with olive oil or melted butter.
- Mix the filling: Combine cranberries and walnuts in a bowl.
- Stuff the pears: Spoon the filling into each pear half.
- Make the honey glaze: Whisk honey, orange juice, and cinnamon together, then drizzle half over the pears.
- Bake the pears: Cook uncovered for 25–30 minutes until tender.
- Top with blue cheese: Sprinkle cheese and return to oven for 5–7 minutes until just melted.
- Final drizzle and serve: Drizzle remaining honey mixture and garnish as desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
The beauty of baked pears lies in their versatility. Here are some creative ideas for serving:
- Plating: Serve them warm on a decorative plate, drizzled with the honey mixture and sprinkled with fresh herbs.
- Complement with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche adds a delightful creaminess.
- Pair with a dessert wine: A glass of late-harvest Riesling or dessert sherry complements the sweet and savory elements beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here’s how to keep your baked pears fresh:
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently: Warm them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave for a few seconds to avoid overcooking.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pears before baking. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag. Simply bake from frozen, increasing the baking time slightly.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are some handy tips to elevate your baked pears:
- Choose ripe but firm pears: They should be slightly soft to the touch to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the honey mixture for a unique twist.
- Mind the cheese: Sprinkle the blue cheese at the end to maintain its texture and flavor without overpowering the dish.
Creative Twists
Looking for ways to switch things up? Here are some variations you can try:
- Nut substitutions: Swap out walnuts for pecans, or even consider using almonds for a different crunch.
- Dried fruits: Try using raisins or chopped dried apricots instead of cranberries for an alternative flavor profile.
- Herb additions: Infuse the honey mixture with a bit of rosemary or sage for a fragrant touch.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time is about 40-45 minutes, with approximately 10-15 minutes of prep and another 25-30 minutes in the oven.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pears and fill them earlier in the day. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What if I can’t find blue cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your style, try goat cheese or even feta for a milder, yet still flavorful option.
Baked Pears with Cranberries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is a delightful way to merge flavors and textures, offering a unique twist on traditional desserts. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress. So why not give it a try? Your tastebuds will thank you!
Baked Pears with Cranberries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish to hold the pears.
- Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in the dish.
- Lightly coat the pears with olive oil or melted butter.
- In a small bowl, combine the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts.
- Spoon the mixture into the cavities of each pear half.
- In another bowl, whisk together the honey, orange juice, and cinnamon, and drizzle half over the pears.
- Bake the pears uncovered for 25–30 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Sprinkle blue cheese over the warm pears and return them to the oven to soften for an additional 5–7 minutes.
- Drizzle the remaining honey mixture over the pears and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
