Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
• 1/4 cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
• 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pears

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Halve the pears and carefully remove the cores with a spoon or melon baller to create a small well for the filling. Place the pear halves cut side up in a baking dish.

Step 2: Add the Seasoning and Filling

1. Brush the pear halves with the melted butter, coating them evenly.
2. Sprinkle cinnamon over the pears for a warm, aromatic touch.
3. Divide the mixed berries and chopped walnuts among the pears, filling each cavity with a small handful.

Step 3: Drizzle with Honey and Bake

1. Drizzle each pear half with honey, allowing it to seep into the fruit and berries.
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Add the Blue Cheese

1. Remove the foil and sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the pears.
2. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the pears from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired, adding an earthy note that complements the pears.
3. Serve warm, with an extra drizzle of honey if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, for 1 Pear Half)

These values are approximate and may vary depending on portion sizes and exact ingredients.

• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 8mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 23g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 16g
• Protein: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Absolutely! While blue cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor, you could substitute it with goat cheese for a milder taste, or feta if you prefer a bit of saltiness.

Q: What other nuts can I use?

A: Pecans or almonds would work well as substitutes if you don’t have walnuts on hand. They will still provide that essential crunch and nutty flavor.

Q: Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use frozen berries. However, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to avoid excess liquid in the baking dish.

Q: How do I make this dairy-free?

A: For a dairy-free version, omit the blue cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese substitute. You can also use a dairy-free butter alternative for brushing the pears.

Q: Can this be served cold?

A: Yes, this dish can be served warm or at room temperature. The flavors are most aromatic and pronounced when the pears are warm, but it’s still delicious when cool.

Tips for Making the Best Baked Pears

1. Choose the Right Pears: Select firm pears, like Bosc or Anjou, which hold their shape well during baking and have a naturally sweet flavor.
2. Prepare in Advance: Core and assemble the pears with their fillings in advance, cover, and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes it easy to prepare ahead of time for gatherings.
3. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a slightly less sweet dessert, reduce the honey or omit it entirely; the natural sugars in the fruit and berries will still lend sweetness to the dish.
4. Experiment with Garnishes: While thyme or rosemary add a nice aroma, you can also try garnishing with a touch of lemon zest or a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added color and flavor.
5. Add a Touch of Spice: For an extra touch of warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon, or even a light sprinkle of ginger if you enjoy a bit of spice.
6. Pair with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: For a more indulgent dessert, serve the pears with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
2. Reheating: To reheat, place the pears in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave on low for 1-2 minutes.
3. Freezing: Baked pears don’t freeze well due to their high water content, which can make them mushy once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or within a few days if stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

Baked Pears with Berries, Walnuts, and Blue Cheese is a delightful dish that’s both impressive and easy to make. The combination of flavors and textures—soft, tender pears, juicy berries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy, tangy cheese—creates a memorable eating experience. With minimal preparation, this dish can transform simple ingredients into an elegant dessert or appetizer, perfect for any occasion.

Not only does this recipe showcase the versatility of pears, but it also encourages you to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or fruits, and adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your taste. This is a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or a quiet evening at home, these baked pears are bound to be a hit. Enjoy the warmth, sweetness, and depth of flavors, and don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a new favorite!