Caramelized Baked Pear Halves with Blue Cheese, Fresh Berries, Walnuts & Thyme
Description
This dish features ripe pears baked until soft and golden with a caramel-like glaze. The warm fruit pairs perfectly with the salty richness of blue cheese, fresh berry brightness, and nutty crunch from walnuts. The thyme adds a subtle herbal aroma that elevates the entire flavor profile.
Sweet + savory combination
Elegant presentation
Quick and simple preparation
Perfect for dinner parties or special occasions
Preparation & Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
2 large ripe pears (halved, seeds removed)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)
60 g (½ cup) blue cheese, crumbled
¼ cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
¼ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
Pinch of salt
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Pears
Slice pears in half and remove cores.
Place them cut-side up on the tray.
Step 3: Add Glaze
Brush pears with melted butter.
Drizzle honey or maple syrup.
Sprinkle cinnamon (optional), salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until pears are tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Remove from oven.
Sprinkle blue cheese, walnuts, and berries over warm pears.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
Garnish with fresh thyme.
Serve warm for best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
With grilled chicken or roasted meat
As a holiday side dish
With arugula salad
As a light dessert with extra honey drizzle
Tips for Best Results
Use firm but ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou work well).
Don’t overbake — pears should hold their shape.
Toast walnuts beforehand for deeper flavor.
Try goat cheese if you prefer a milder taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned pears?
Fresh pears are best, but drained canned pears can work. Reduce baking time to about 10–15 minutes.
2. What can replace blue cheese?
You can use goat cheese, feta, ricotta, or cream cheese.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven.
4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes — use maple syrup instead of honey and plant-based cheese.
5. Which pears are best for baking?
Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett pears hold texture well during baking.