This Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese dessert is the epitome of elegance and comfort. The tender, baked pears, drizzled with honey, topped with juicy berries, and sprinkled with crunchy walnuts, make for a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The addition of creamy blue cheese brings a delightful tang, creating an unforgettable dessert that will surely impress any guest.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe pears, halved and cored
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp crumbled blue cheese
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for baking the pears evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
- Cut the pears in half and remove the cores.
- Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
- Drizzle each pear with honey, ensuring it is well-coated.
Step 3: Add Walnuts and Berries
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the pear halves.
- Top the pears with the mixed berries for a burst of color and sweetness.
Step 4: Bake the Pears
- Bake the pears in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and juicy.
- Keep an eye on the pears, ensuring they don’t become too soft while baking.
Step 5: Add Blue Cheese and Garnish
- Once the pears are done, remove them from the oven.
- Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese on top of the pears while they are still warm, so it slightly melts into the dessert.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the pears warm, enjoying the combination of tender fruit, tangy cheese, crunchy walnuts, and sweet honey. This dessert is best enjoyed right away, as the textures and flavors meld beautifully.
Helpful Tips for Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
1. Choose Ripe Pears
Select pears that are firm but slightly soft to the touch. They should hold their shape when baked and become tender without becoming mushy.
2. Customize the Cheese
If the blue cheese flavor is too strong, you can substitute it with goat cheese, feta, or even a mild brie for a creamier texture.
3. Add a Spice Twist
For an extra layer of warmth and complexity, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg over the pears before baking. These spices will complement the natural sweetness of the pears and the honey.
4. Toast the Walnuts
To bring out the rich flavor of the walnuts, consider toasting them before sprinkling them on the pears. Simply toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Substitutions and Variations
1. Honey Substitute
To make the dish vegan-friendly or for a slightly different sweetness, maple syrup or agave syrup can be used instead of honey. They provide a similar consistency and flavor profile.
2. Blue Cheese Alternative
For a more delicate flavor, you can swap the blue cheese for goat cheese, feta, or even brie. For a completely dairy-free option, skip the cheese entirely or try a plant-based alternative such as cashew cheese.
3. Spiced Pears
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the pears before baking for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for fall.
4. Balsamic Drizzle
For a sophisticated twist, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the pears just before serving. The balsamic pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pears and the tangy blue cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare and bake the pears in advance. After baking, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, then add the blue cheese and berries.
2. Can I use canned or frozen pears?
While fresh pears are recommended for the best texture, if you’re using canned pears, make sure they are drained thoroughly. You may need to reduce the baking time to prevent them from becoming too soft. Frozen pears can also work, but they tend to release more liquid, so you might need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the honey with maple syrup or agave and skip the blue cheese. You can substitute with vegan cheese alternatives or simply enjoy the pears without cheese for a lighter, vegan dessert.
Conclusion
These Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese are a delightful, warm dessert that combines sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday meal, special occasion, or just as a treat for yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its balance of textures and complex flavors. The soft pears, complemented by the rich blue cheese, crunchy walnuts, and juicy berries, make for a showstopping and unforgettable treat.