Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
Introduction
Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is a delicious dessert that combines sweet and savory flavors in a warm and comforting dish. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening at home or as an impressive treat for guests. The pairing of juicy pears, tangy berries, rich blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful taste and texture that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare and makes use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The combination of sweet and savory elements provides a unique dessert experience that stands out from traditional sweets. Plus, it is a healthier option since it features fruits and nuts. It’s great for any occasion, whether you want to impress friends or just indulge in a simple yet delicious treat after dinner.
How To Make Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
Making Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1 tablespoon of butter, melted
- 1/2 cup of mixed fresh berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- 1/2 cup of walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Arrange the halved and cored pears, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet and brush the exposed surfaces with melted butter.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until the pears are tender but still firm.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- Top with mixed berries and crumbled blue cheese, letting the warmth of the pears soften the cheese.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and drizzle honey over the top.
- Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
Serve these baked pears warm or at room temperature. They make a lovely dessert on their own, or you can pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. The dish also can be served as part of a cheese board, adding a unique twist to your spread.
How to Store Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
If you have leftovers, store the baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.
Tips to Make Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
- Choose ripe pears for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
- Experiment with different nuts or cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
Variation
You can easily switch up the ingredients. Try using different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta. You can also add other fruits like sliced apples or peaches for a different flavor twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?
While fresh pears provide a better texture and flavor, you can use canned pears in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well before baking.
2. Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
If you have nut allergies, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for crunch.
3. Can I make these baked pears in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pears and bake them in advance, but it’s best to add the toppings right before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.
Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is an easy and tasty dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and savory flavors, it will surely please your friends and family. Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful treat!