Looking for a dish that beautifully balances sweet and savory flavors? This Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is the perfect dessert or brunch treat to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings. Combining juicy pears, tangy blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a drizzle of honey, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it ideal for special occasions or casual gatherings. The natural sweetness of baked pears pairs wonderfully with the creamy richness of blue cheese, while the addition of fresh berries and toasted walnuts adds bursts of color, freshness, and crunch. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Baked Pears:
- 4 ripe but firm pears (Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett work well), halved and cored
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
For the Topping:
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort also work great)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts , lightly toasted
- 1–2 tablespoons honey , for drizzling
- Optional: Fresh mint leaves or thyme sprigs for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
- Carefully peel the outer skin of the pear halves, leaving the base intact.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey , lemon juice , cinnamon , and nutmeg .
- Brush this mixture generously over the cut sides of the pears, ensuring they’re coated evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Pears
- Place the pear halves, cut-side up, in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
Step 4: Assemble the Toppings
While the pears are baking, prepare the toppings:
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, shaking occasionally, until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- Crumble the blue cheese into small pieces and set aside.
- Wash and pat dry the mixed berries .
Step 5: Add the Toppings
- Once the pears are baked and slightly cooled, spoon a few berries onto each half.
- Sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese over the berries.
- Top with chopped walnuts for added crunch.
- Drizzle a little more honey over the top for extra sweetness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Arrange the baked pears on plates or a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or thyme sprigs if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Tips for Making Perfect Baked Pears
- Choose Ripe Pears : Select pears that are slightly firm but give a little when pressed. Overripe pears may become mushy during baking.
- Customize the Cheese : If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try substituting feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
- Add Liquor : For an adult twist, brush the pears with a bit of Grand Marnier, Amaretto, or brandy before baking.
- Make It Vegan : Omit the honey and use maple syrup instead. Replace the blue cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Meal Prep : Prepare the pears ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before adding the toppings.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that make every bite memorable. Whether served as a decadent dessert, a unique brunch option, or even a light dinner course, this dish is sure to delight everyone who tries it. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy this sweet and savory masterpiece!
If you loved this recipe, explore more creative dishes that combine unexpected flavors on our website. From fruity desserts to savory mains, we’ve got something for every palate. Happy cooking! 🍴✨
