Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

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Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

A delicious blend of sweet and savory awaits with the delightful recipe for Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese. This step-by-step recipe combines the tender, buttery texture of baked pears with the bright acidity of berries, the nutty crunch of walnuts, and the creamy richness of blue cheese. Imagine stepping into your kitchen, inhaling the heavenly fragrance of honey and cinnamon wafting through the air as these scrumptious morsels bake to perfection. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful culinary experience that promises to become a cherished favorite!

History / Fun Fact

Pears have a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations, particularly in Asia and Europe. The classic combination of sweet fruits and rich cheeses is a tradition that has stood the test of time, often featured in gourmet dishes and cheese pairings. The addition of honey, nuts, and berries highlights the diverse regional flavors and celebrates the bounty of nature. Out of this rich tapestry of flavors emerges the delightful creation of Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese, which marries the crisp sweetness of pears with bold cheese and dramatic textures, weaving a delightful story of culinary heritage in every bite.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett), halved and cored: Choose pears that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch, providing that perfect balance of sweetness and juicy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted: The rich, creamy essence of butter enhances the flavors as it melts into the pears.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Golden and thick, honey adds a delightful sweetness that complements the fruity and nutty flavors.
• 1/2 cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries): Vibrant and tart, these little morsels pop with color and flavor, creating bursts of juicy delight.
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted: The earthy crunch adds texture and depth, making every bite an adventure.
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola: The sharp, creamy cheese provides a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the pears and honey.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This fragrant spice envelopes the dish, evoking warmth and comfort with every dash.
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish): These delicate herbs sprinkle a hint of earthiness and a pop of green, refreshing the palate.

Every ingredient in this beautiful dish is carefully selected to create a symphony of flavors and textures that sing of warmth, comfort, and culinary delight.

Cooking Time & Tips for Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

When crafting your Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese, you will find that the cooking time can vary based on the ripeness and size of the pears you choose. Quick preparation takes around 30 minutes for a delightful dessert, whereas slow preparation allows for better caramelization and infusion of flavors over a 45-minute baking journey.

For best results, select pears that are ripe but not overly soft to ensure they hold their shape during baking. Be sure to toast your walnuts lightly for an enhanced flavor, and never skip the honey drizzle—this final touch adds a luscious sweetness to each pear!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it, allowing for easy removal later.

2. Slice the pears in half lengthwise and remove the cores. If the pear halves feel wobbly, you can trim the bottoms slightly to create a stable base, ensuring they sit upright in the baking dish.

3. Brush each pear half with melted butter, placing them cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. As you do this, the buttery richness seeps into the flesh, ensuring every bite is decadent and delightful.

4. Fill each pear with a mixture of berries, walnuts, and blue cheese. Allow your creativity to shine as you arrange the filling, making it visually appealing and bursting with flavor.

5. Drizzle honey generously over the filled pears before sprinkling them with cinnamon, creating a warm, aromatic spice that hugs each pear.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the pears are tender and golden. Watch as they transform in the heat, turning soft and luscious, the berries bursting and bringing color to the dish.

7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving. For an extra indulgent touch, serve with the warm pan juices, pooling at the bottom of your baking dish—perfect for drizzling over your pears.

With each step, you are inviting enchantment into your home, creating an atmosphere of joy and anticipation.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

Imagine presenting these exquisite Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese at your next gathering. They are perfect for cozy dinners, festive occasions, or as a stunning centerpiece for brunches. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream for added luxuriousness. For a gourmet touch, pair them with a light-bodied red wine or a fruity herbal tea that enhances the dessert’s flavor profile. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying the everyday, these baked pears will elevate the occasion, making it truly memorable.

Common Mistakes for Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

One common mistake is using overly ripe pears, which can turn mushy and lose their shape during baking. Always choose pears that are just at the peak of ripeness. Additionally, be careful not to overload the pears with too much filling, which may cause them to spill over and create a mess in the oven. Lastly, remember to keep an eye on the pears as they bake; ovens can vary in heat, and you want to capture that perfect golden hue without overcooking.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

Looking for a lighter version? Consider substituting the blue cheese with a tangy goat cheese or cottage cheese for a creamy yet lower-calorie option. For sweetness, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup in place of honey. Experiment with different types of nuts, like pecans or almonds, to add a unique twist. You can even swap the mixed berries for sliced apples or peaches based on the season, making this recipe versatile and inviting no matter the time of year!

FAQs

1. Can I make Baked Pears in advance?

   • Yes! Prepare the pears and filling in advance, then bake just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

2. What type of pears work best for this recipe?

   • Bosc and Bartlett pears are excellent choices, as they hold their shape while baking and offer a sweet flavor.

3. Can I use frozen berries?

   • Absolutely! Frozen berries can be used, though they may release more juice, so adjust the quantities accordingly.

4. What if I don’t have any blue cheese?

   • You can substitute it with feta cheese, goat cheese, or even ricotta for a milder flavor.

5. How can I store leftovers?

   • Store baked pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

6. Can I add spices other than cinnamon?

   • Certainly! Experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or even a splash of vanilla extract for a unique flavor profile.

Conclusion

With its delightful balance of flavors and simple preparation, Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese is a dish that everyone should try at least once. Perfect for any occasion, it promises to captivate your taste buds and delight your senses. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and embark on this delicious culinary adventure today! Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll create memories that linger well after the last bite.

Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese

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A delicious blend of sweet and savory baked pears filled with berries, walnuts, honey, and blue cheese, creating a delightful dessert.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish.
2. Slice the pears in half lengthwise and remove the cores.
3. Brush each pear half with melted butter and place cut-side up in the baking dish.
4. Fill each pear with a mixture of berries, walnuts, and blue cheese.
5. Drizzle honey over the filled pears and sprinkle with cinnamon.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the pears are tender and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.

Notes

Choose pears that are ripe but not overly soft for the best results. Toast walnuts lightly for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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