Baked Pears with Blue Cheese is a delightful dish that perfectly marries sweet and savory flavors, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. As I first discovered this recipe, I was captivated by the way the warm, tender pears complement the rich, tangy blue cheese, creating a harmonious balance that dances on the palate. This dish has roots in various culinary traditions, often celebrated in European cuisine, where the combination of fruit and cheese is a beloved classic.
People adore Baked Pears with Blue Cheese not only for its exquisite taste but also for its delightful texture. The soft, juicy pears provide a luscious contrast to the creamy, crumbly blue cheese, while the addition of nuts or honey can elevate the dish even further. Whether served as an elegant appetizer, a sophisticated side dish, or a unique dessert, Baked Pears with Blue Cheese is a versatile recipe that is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc work well)
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Preparing the Pears
First things first, let’s get our pears ready. I love using ripe pears because they become so tender and sweet when baked. Here’s how to prepare them:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that our pears bake evenly and get that lovely caramelization.
- While the oven is heating, wash the pears under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Next, cut each pear in half lengthwise. Use a melon baller or a small spoon to scoop out the core and seeds, creating a little well for our delicious filling.
- Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Make sure they are snug but not overcrowded, as we want them to bake evenly.
Making the Filling
Now that our pears are prepped, let’s whip up the filling that will take these baked pears to the next level.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts. The creaminess of the blue cheese pairs perfectly with the crunch of the walnuts.
- Add the honey to the cheese and walnut mixture. This will add a lovely sweetness that balances the tanginess of the blue cheese.
- Next, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar. This will give our filling a nice depth of flavor. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Sprinkle in the fresh thyme leaves, black pepper, and salt. Mix again to ensure the herbs and spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Assembling the Dish
With our pears and filling ready, it’s time to assemble this delightful dish.
- Using a spoon, generously fill each pear half with the blue cheese and walnut mixture. Don’t be shy; pile it on! The more filling, the better.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the filled pears. This will help them caramelize beautifully in the oven.
- For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit more honey over the top of the filled pears. This will create a lovely glaze as they bake.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the pears steam and become tender while they bake.
Baking the Pears
Now it’s time to let the oven work its magic!
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This initial baking time will soften the pears.
- After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Be cautious of the steam that will escape!
- Return the uncovered baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden brown. You can check for doneness by gently poking a pear with a fork; it should be soft but not falling apart.
Serving the Baked Pears
Once the pears are done baking, it’s time to serve them up!
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the pears cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle.
- Using a spatula, carefully transfer the baked pears to individual serving plates. You can serve them warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
- Drizzle any remaining juices from the baking dish over the pears for added flavor.
- If you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and a
Conclusion:
In summary, these Baked Pears with Blue Cheese are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests or simply indulge in a delightful treat. The combination of sweet, juicy pears and the rich, tangy flavor of blue cheese creates a harmonious balance that is both sophisticated and comforting. Plus, the ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. For serving suggestions, consider drizzling a bit of honey or balsamic reduction over the top for an extra layer of flavor. You can also pair these baked pears with a handful of walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or serve them alongside a fresh arugula salad for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or any creative twists you added to the Baked Pears with Blue Cheese. Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps others discover the joy of this delicious dish. Happy baking! Print
Baked Pears with Blue Cheese: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Gourmet Flavor
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Delightfully baked pears filled with creamy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts, drizzled with honey and balsamic vinegar, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Scale- 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Bosc)
- 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the pears under cold water and pat them dry.
- Cut each pear in half lengthwise and scoop out the core and seeds.
- Place the pear halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts.
- Add honey and balsamic vinegar, stirring until well combined.
- Sprinkle in fresh thyme leaves, black pepper, and salt, mixing again.
- Fill each pear half generously with the blue cheese and walnut mixture.
- Drizzle olive oil over the filled pears and optionally add more honey.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake covered for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender and bubbly.
- Let the pears cool for a few minutes before transferring to serving plates.
- Drizzle with any remaining juices and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile; feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or nuts based on your preference.
- You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
- These baked pears make a fantastic appetizer or dessert and pair beautifully with a glass of dessert wine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes