Baked Pears with Honeyed Figs, Walnuts & Blue Cheese Crumble
Baked Pears with Honeyed Figs, Walnuts & Blue Cheese Crumble is a delightful dish that perfectly straddles the line between dessert and appetizer. I first stumbled upon this gem during a cozy family gathering and was instantly smitten by its enticing aroma and contrasting flavors. The sweet juiciness of ripe pears, the rich creaminess of blue cheese, and the earthy crunch of walnuts create an unforgettable culinary experience. It’s an ideal recipe for holiday gatherings, an elegant dinner party, or even a cozy date night at home.
Why make this recipe
Reasons to try it
There are many compelling reasons why this dish deserves a spot on your table. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up something that feels gourmet—perfect for impressing guests without the stress.
It also embodies the spirit of seasonal cooking, celebrating the delicious bounty of fall. The combination of warm, baked pears and rich honeyed figs brings a taste of comfort that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Whether you use it as a sweet ending to your Thanksgiving feast or a unique appetizer at your next cocktail gathering, it’s sure to win hearts and taste buds.
"I served these baked pears at my holiday dinner, and everyone raved about them! The blend of flavors is simply heavenly."
How to make Baked Pears with Honeyed Figs, Walnuts & Blue Cheese Crumble
Preparing Baked Pears with Honeyed Figs, Walnuts & Blue Cheese Crumble
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Here’s how it comes together in just a few simple steps that make your time in the kitchen efficient and enjoyable:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grab some ripe Bosc pears and halve them. Make sure to core them well so they can hold all the delicious toppings.
- Next, place those pear halves in a baking dish and give them a generous drizzle of melted butter and honey.
- It’s time to get creative! Arrange the honeyed figs and chopped walnuts on the pears, making sure to distribute them evenly.
- Finally, crumble the blue cheese over the entire dish for that creamy, salty finish.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until the pears are tender and the house smells divine.
- Serve warm, and watch everyone delight in this exquisite dish!
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To bring this dish to life, gather the following key ingredients:
- 3 ripe but firm Bosc pears, halved and cored
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Honeyed figs (about 1 cup, roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
If you want to make this dish a bit lighter, consider substituting goat cheese for the blue cheese or using almond slices instead of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Halve and core the Bosc pears.
- Arrange the pear halves cut side up in a baking dish.
- Drizzle melted butter and honey on top of the pears.
- Add honeyed figs and chopped walnuts evenly across the pears.
- Crumble blue cheese generously over the mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pears are fork-tender.
- Serve warm, enjoying the beautiful blend of flavors.
How to serve Baked Pears with Honeyed Figs, Walnuts & Blue Cheese Crumble
Best ways to enjoy it
Presentation can elevate this dish even further. Consider serving the baked pears on a rustic wooden board topped with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a creamy contrast. They compliment a light salad or a cheeseboard wonderfully, adding a sweet note to the savory elements. A glass of dessert wine or a light white wine can enhance the flavors beautifully.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Make sure to keep food handling practices in mind; ensure the dish is cooled before refrigerating and store leftovers promptly.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For the best texture, choose pears that are ripe but still firm. Softer pears can turn mushy when baked. If you prefer a sweeter option, feel free to increase the honey, or mix in cinnamon for added warmth. Also, consider placing the baking dish on a parchment-lined tray to catch any drips and make cleanup a breeze.
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative! Swap out the blue cheese for feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist. You can also try adding cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a pop of acidity and color. Customize it to suit your taste!
FAQs
Common questions
Q: How can I tell when the pears are done baking?
A: The pears should be tender but still hold their shape. A fork should easily slide in, but they should not be falling apart.
Q: Can I use other types of pears?
A: Absolutely! While Bosc pears are ideal, you can use Anjou or Bartlett pears. Just be mindful of their ripeness.
Q: Is this dish suitable for freezing?
A: While fresh-baked pears are best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze them without the toppings. They may lose some texture but can still be tasty when reheated for a quicker dessert option.
Indulging in this exquisite dish not only satisfies your taste buds but embraces the beauty of seasonal fruits, making it a must-try for any culinary enthusiast!
Baked Pears with Honeyed Figs, Walnuts & Blue Cheese Crumble
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Halve and core the Bosc pears.
- Arrange the pear halves cut side up in a baking dish.
- Drizzle melted butter and honey on top of the pears.
- Add honeyed figs and chopped walnuts evenly across the pears.
- Crumble blue cheese generously over the mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pears are fork-tender.
- Serve warm, enjoying the beautiful blend of flavors.
