Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese
If elegance had a flavor, it would taste like this: Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts, and Blue Cheese.
This recipe takes the natural sweetness of ripe pears and elevates it with rich, creamy blue cheese, tart bursts of berries, and a drizzle of golden honey. The toasted walnuts bring the perfect crunch, while a touch of cinnamon and thyme add warmth and balance.
Each bite delivers layers of flavor — sweet, savory, tangy, and nutty, all wrapped in a caramelized pear that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a healthy yet decadent dessert, a brunch centerpiece, or a sophisticated dinner party side dish, these baked pears are guaranteed to impress.
They’re also quick to make and require just a few ingredients — proof that simple can still be spectacular.
🍯 Ingredients
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3 ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett), halved and cored
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
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2 tablespoons honey
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½ cup fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries)
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¼ cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted
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¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
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Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup. -
Prepare the Pears:
Slice the pears in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or melon baller to remove the core and seeds, creating a small hollow in the center for the filling. -
Brush and Bake:
Place the pear halves cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush generously with melted butter, then drizzle each half with honey.
Sprinkle with cinnamon for a hint of warmth. -
Bake Until Tender:
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pears are soft but still hold their shape. The edges should be slightly golden. -
Add the Toppings:
Remove the pears from the oven and carefully spoon the berries, toasted walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese into the hollow of each pear.
Return to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, just until the cheese begins to soften. -
Finish and Serve:
Drizzle with a little extra honey, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an herbal touch. Serve warm or at room temperature.
🥄 Serving Suggestions
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Serve these baked pears as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla or honey ice cream.
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Pair them with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling rosé.
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For a savory twist, serve alongside a charcuterie board or roasted chicken.
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Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a healthy breakfast option.
💡 Tips for Perfect Results
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Choose firm, ripe pears. Overripe ones will become too mushy when baked.
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If blue cheese is too strong for your taste, swap it with goat cheese or ricotta.
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Toast the walnuts beforehand for extra flavor.
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You can use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, autumn-inspired sweetness.
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Based on 6 servings)
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Calories: ~210 kcal
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Protein: 5g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Fat: 11g
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Fiber: 4g
This dessert is nutrient-dense, gluten-free, and rich in antioxidants — making it as nourishing as it is indulgent.
❓ Related Questions
Q1. Can I use a different cheese instead of blue cheese?
Yes! Try goat cheese, ricotta, or brie for a milder flavor. Each brings a creamy texture that complements the pears.
Q2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake the pears ahead, refrigerate them, and simply warm them up before serving. Add the cheese and honey just before reheating to keep the texture perfect.
Q3. Can I use canned pears?
Fresh pears are best for this recipe since canned pears are too soft and may fall apart when baked.
Q4. What if I don’t have an oven?
You can pan-sear the pear halves in butter for 3–4 minutes on each side, then top them with the toppings for a similar effect.
Q5. What berries work best?
Blueberries and raspberries hold up best to baking. If using cranberries, add a little extra honey to balance the tartness.
🌿 Final Thoughts
These Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts & Blue Cheese are a perfect example of how minimal ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. The combination of sweet and savory, creamy and crunchy, and warm and refreshing flavors makes this a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Perfect for fall and winter gatherings — or anytime you crave something comforting yet classy.
