Introduction
If you’re looking for an elegant appetizer or a light dessert with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, look no further than these Warm Baked Pears with Creamy Blue Cheese and Honey Drizzle. The natural sweetness of ripe pears is enhanced by roasting, while the tangy blue cheese adds a delicious creaminess. A drizzle of honey brings it all together, and a sprinkle of fresh thyme and walnuts adds the perfect finishing touch. This dish is simple to make but sophisticated enough for a dinner party or special occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked pear recipe offers a unique combination of flavors and textures. The tender pears provide a naturally sweet base, while the blue cheese offers a creamy, tangy contrast. Honey adds a touch of sweetness, while fresh thyme brings an aromatic freshness to the dish. If you opt to include walnuts, their crunch will elevate this already delightful dish to another level. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for when you want something impressive without too much effort.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Chopped walnuts for garnish
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roasting the pears at this temperature will allow them to soften and sweeten while keeping their shape intact.
2. Prepare the Pears
Cut the pears in half and remove the cores using a melon baller or spoon to create a small well in the center of each pear half. The well will hold the creamy blue cheese, allowing it to melt beautifully into the pears as they bake.
3. Assemble the Pears
Place the pear halves, cut side up, in a baking dish. Drizzle each pear half with a little olive oil to help them roast evenly and add a slight richness. Then, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese into the hollow of each pear. Be generous with the cheese, as its tangy flavor will contrast perfectly with the sweetness of the pears and honey.
4. Bake the Pears
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender but still hold their shape. The blue cheese should be slightly melted, giving the pears a savory, creamy finish. Keep an eye on them, as you don’t want the pears to become too soft.
5. Finish with Honey and Thyme
Once the pears are done baking, remove them from the oven and drizzle each one with honey. The honey adds a touch of sweetness and brings all the flavors together. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top for an aromatic, herbal note. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste for a well-balanced flavor profile.
6. Optional Garnish: Add Walnuts
For added crunch and richness, sprinkle some chopped walnuts over the pears. The nuts will complement the creaminess of the blue cheese and the sweetness of the pears and honey, making the dish even more satisfying.
7. Serve
Serve these warm baked pears as a savory appetizer or a light dessert. They pair well with a variety of main courses or can be enjoyed on their own for a delicious and sophisticated snack.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking dish
- Melon baller or spoon for coring the pears
- Small bowl for olive oil
- Spoon for drizzling honey
Tips for Perfect Baked Pears
- Choosing the Pears: Use firm but ripe pears such as Bosc or Anjou. These varieties hold their shape well during baking and have a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with blue cheese and honey.
- Adjusting the Cheese: If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese or feta for a milder flavor. The creamy texture will still complement the pears, but the taste will be less intense.
- Honey Drizzle: Drizzle the honey after baking to maintain its smooth, liquid consistency and to contrast with the warm pears and melted cheese.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Cheese Variations: If blue cheese is too strong for your liking, try a milder cheese like brie, camembert, or ricotta.
- Nut Substitutes: If you don’t have walnuts on hand, pecans or almonds work wonderfully as a substitute.
- Herb Alternatives: Fresh thyme adds a subtle herbal note, but you can also use fresh rosemary or mint for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the pears in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes, just until warmed through.
Food and Drink Pairings
These Warm Baked Pears with Creamy Blue Cheese and Honey Drizzle pair beautifully with a variety of drinks and dishes. For beverages, try serving with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the sweet and savory notes. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a glass of sparkling water with lemon or a light herbal tea would be a refreshing choice.
This dish also works well as an appetizer to a rich main course, such as roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. For a dessert option, serve with a simple green salad or alongside a cheese and charcuterie board.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: While these baked pears are best served fresh, you can prepare the pears and the cheese ahead of time, assembling them just before baking. Store the prepared pears and cheese in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking.
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with apples or even peaches, especially if they are firm and slightly tart.
Q: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried thyme if fresh thyme isn’t available. Use about half the amount of dried thyme, as it is more concentrated in flavor.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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PrintWarm Baked Pears with Creamy Blue Cheese and Honey Drizzle
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Delight in warm baked pears filled with creamy blue cheese, topped with a sweet honey drizzle—a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving