Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is an easy yet elegant dish that combines sweet fruits with rich flavors. This dessert-perfect dish is great for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy family dinner. The combination of baked pears, tart berries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy blue cheese creates a taste experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you want to impress your guests or enjoy a sweet treat at home, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Not only does it taste great, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Pears are a good source of fiber and vitamins, while berries offer antioxidants and other health benefits. The walnuts add healthy fats, and blue cheese introduces a bold flavor. It’s a dessert that balances health and indulgence perfectly.

How to Make Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

Making Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is as easy as pie. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you will have a delicious dessert ready in less than an hour. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delightful dish.

Ingredients

To make Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett), halved and cored
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your baked pears cook evenly and turn out perfectly tender.

2. Prepare the baking dish: Next, line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease the surface. This will help to prevent the pears from sticking during baking and makes cleanup easier.

3. Prepare the pears: Take your ripe pears and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the cores using a spoon or knife. To ensure the pears sit flat, you may want to trim a small slice off the bottom of each half.

4. Brush with melted butter: Use a brush to coat each pear half with melted butter. The butter adds moisture and helps to bring out the flavor of the pears as they bake.

5. Fill the pear halves: Place the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Now, it’s time to fill them! Spoon fresh mixed berries into the hollowed center of each pear half, followed by a generous sprinkle of toasted walnuts and crumbled blue cheese.

6. Drizzle honey and sprinkle cinnamon: After filling the pears, drizzle honey over the top. The honey will create a nice glaze as the pears cook. Then, sprinkle ground cinnamon over each pear for an added layer of flavor.

7. Bake the pears: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes. The pears should become tender and golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t burn.

8. Garnish and serve: Once your pears are done baking, remove them from the oven. If you wish, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top for added flavor and a lovely presentation. Spoon warm pan juices over the pears before serving to enhance their sweetness.

How to Serve Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat. If you want a more decadent approach, consider drizzling additional honey or caramel sauce on top just before serving.

Plating is important for this dish. Arrange the baked pears attractively on individual plates, making sure to include some of the warm pan juices. You may also want to garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh thyme. This will make your dish look restaurant-quality and impress your guests.

How to Store Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

If you happen to have leftovers, Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese can be stored easily. Allow the pears to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

Keep in mind that the texture of the pears may change slightly as they sit. However, they will still taste delicious! If you anticipate having leftovers, consider holding off on adding walnuts and blue cheese until you are ready to serve. This will help maintain their crunchiness and flavor.

Tips to Make Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

1. Choose ripe pears: The ripeness of the pears significantly affects the outcome. Select pears that have a little give when gently squeezed for the best results.

2. Experiment with berries: Feel free to use whatever berries you have on hand. Frozen berries can also work in a pinch, but freshly picked berries will offer the best flavor.

3. Use different nuts: While walnuts are delicious, you can substitute them with pecans or almonds for a different texture and taste.

4. Try different cheeses: If blue cheese is not your favorite, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese, which also pair well with sweet fruits.

5. Add spices: If you love spices, you can mix in a bit of nutmeg or ginger for additional flavor tones.

Variation

For those looking to put a twist on this recipe, consider these variations:

• Use different fruits: Besides pears, combining apples or peaches will create an equally delightful dessert. These fruits offer their unique flavors while still pairing nicely with the other ingredients.

• Add a splash of liqueur: For an adult version, consider drizzling a bit of bourbon or brandy over the pears before baking for extra flavor.

• Make it a breakfast dish: Convert this dessert into a breakfast dish by serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt, honey, or granola. It makes for a hearty start to your day.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pears for this recipe?
While fresh pears are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned pears in syrup. Just make sure to drain them well and adjust the baking time since they are already cooked.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure that all your ingredient labels confirm they are gluten-free.

3. How can I make this dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute dairy butter with a plant-based butter and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. There are many great options available for those following a dairy-free diet.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the pears up to the filling stage and then bake them when you’re ready. Just remember to store them in the refrigerator if you are preparing them a day ahead.

5. What can I serve with baked pears?
Baked pears are so versatile! They can be served as a stand-alone dessert or with ice cream, whipped cream, cake, or yogurt. They also go well with coffee or tea, making them fantastic for brunch or dessert.

Enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese. From their rich taste to their impressive look, this dish will surely add a sweet touch to your dining table!