Hello and welcome! If you’re a fan of seasonal, gourmet flavors with a touch of sophistication, you’re in for a treat with our Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle. This is the perfect recipe to elevate any meal or serve as a show-stopping dessert. These warm, tender pears, filled with creamy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts, drizzled with honey, are a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. Let’s dive into this delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Introduction
Gourmet Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle is a recipe that takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a decadent experience. This dish combines classic flavors found in European cuisine, where pairing fruit with cheese is a long-standing tradition. The soft, juicy pears meld with the rich, sharp blue cheese, creating a flavor balance that is beautifully complemented by crunchy walnuts and a touch of honey. With a delicate thyme garnish, this recipe offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory that’s easy to make and impossible to forget.
Whether you’re preparing an appetizer, a unique side dish, or a light dessert, these baked pears with blue cheese offer versatility and a touch of elegance. They’re ideal for fall and winter gatherings, capturing the essence of comfort food with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients for Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious and easy baked pears recipe:
- 3 ripe pears – halved and cored. Bosc or Bartlett varieties work well.
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- 2-3 tablespoons honey for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Substitutions:
- Substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a milder flavor.
- Swap walnuts with pecans if preferred.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
How to Make Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2: Prepare the Pears
- Slice each pear in half lengthwise and remove the core using a melon baller or small spoon. Arrange the pear halves cut side up on the baking sheet, ensuring enough space between each half.
3: Add the Blue Cheese and Walnuts
- Sprinkle about 1-2 teaspoons of crumbled blue cheese into the hollowed center of each pear half. Top with chopped walnuts, allowing some to fall onto the pear’s surface.
4: Bake the Pears
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese has softened. Keep a close eye to avoid over-baking, as the pears should retain a bit of firmness.
5: Finish with Honey and Thyme
- Remove the baked pears from the oven and drizzle each with honey. Sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for added flavor and garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme.
6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the pears warm. The combination of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable taste experience!
Helpful Tips for Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle
- Choose ripe, but firm pears to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
- Adjust baking time if needed – smaller pears may bake faster, so check for tenderness.
- For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the walnuts before adding them to the pears.
- For a touch of acidity, add a few drops of balsamic vinegar alongside the honey drizzle.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey
Achieving the best baked pears with blue cheese and walnuts is easy with a few techniques:
- Use a high-quality blue cheese: The creaminess and sharpness of a good blue cheese will elevate the dish.
- Bake on parchment paper to keep the pears from sticking and make it easy to transfer them.
- Serve immediately: These pears are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is soft, and the honey is fresh.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle
These baked pears make a beautiful starter, side dish, or dessert. For a full-course experience, consider pairing them with:
- A mixed greens salad with arugula and a light vinaigrette, which balances the sweetness of the pears.
- A glass of white wine like Riesling or Chardonnay to complement the dish’s rich flavors.
- Rustic bread or a baguette to complete the meal with extra texture.
Nutritional Information
These baked pears with blue cheese and walnuts offer nutritional benefits in addition to their delicious taste. Pears are high in fiber, blue cheese provides protein and calcium, and walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fats. The honey offers a natural sweetness with antioxidants.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
Storage and Leftovers for Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy again:
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Avoid microwaving, as it may soften the pears too much.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle
1. Can I make these baked pears ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pears up to Step 3 in advance and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
2. Can I substitute blue cheese with another cheese?
Absolutely! Try goat cheese, feta, or even Brie for a different flavor profile.
3. What type of pears are best for this recipe?
Bosc or Bartlett pears are recommended due to their firm texture, which holds up well when baked.
4. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap the blue cheese for a vegan cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Related Recipes for Baked Pear Lovers
Explore more pear recipes to satisfy your culinary curiosity:
Conclusion
We hope this recipe for Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle becomes a new favorite in your home. With its simplicity and elegance, it’s a wonderful addition to any meal. Try it out, share your thoughts, and let us know how you make it your own. Enjoy these baked pears – a true gourmet delight!
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Baked Pears with Blue Cheese – Easy Gourmet Dessert Recipe
Description
Hello and welcome! If you’re a fan of seasonal, gourmet flavors with a touch of sophistication, you’re in for a treat with our Baked Pears with Blue Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey Drizzle. This is the perfect recipe to elevate any meal or serve as a show-stopping dessert. These warm, tender pears, filled with creamy blue cheese and crunchy walnuts, drizzled with honey, are a delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. Let’s dive into this delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe pears – halved and cored. Bosc or Bartlett varieties work well.
- 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
- 2–3 tablespoons honey for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Substitutions:
- Substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a milder flavor.
- Swap walnuts with pecans if preferred.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
- Slice each pear in half lengthwise and remove the core using a melon baller or small spoon. Arrange the pear halves cut side up on the baking sheet, ensuring enough space between each half.
Step 3: Add the Blue Cheese and Walnuts
- Sprinkle about 1-2 teaspoons of crumbled blue cheese into the hollowed center of each pear half. Top with chopped walnuts, allowing some to fall onto the pear’s surface.
Step 4: Bake the Pears
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the cheese has softened. Keep a close eye to avoid over-baking, as the pears should retain a bit of firmness.
Step 5: Finish with Honey and Thyme
- Remove the baked pears from the oven and drizzle each with honey. Sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper for added flavor and garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the pears warm. The combination of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable taste experience!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use a high-quality blue cheese: The creaminess and sharpness of a good blue cheese will elevate the dish.
- Bake on parchment paper to keep the pears from sticking and make it easy to transfer them.
- Serve immediately: These pears are best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is soft, and the honey is fresh.
