Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese

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Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese is the kind of dish that sneaks up on you. It looks simple—almost too simple—but from the very first bite, it’s unforgettable. The way the pears soften into something silky and warm, how the honey caramelizes with the berries, and the savory bite of blue cheese crumbles against the crunch of walnuts? It’s a little magical.

Whether you’re craving something elegant or rustic, this recipe hits the mark—just like my crispy flatbread with brie and cranberries, which blends creamy and tart flavors in the best way. And if you’re a fan of warm, oven-baked fruit and cheese combinations, you’ll love my golden baked brie with caramelized apples and thyme too.

If dishes like this speak to your soul (and your tastebuds), I’d love to have you subscribe for more feel-good, flavor-forward recipes straight from my kitchen.

Why These Baked Pears Are So Special

This isn’t your average dessert. It’s refined yet fuss-free. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. And it’s bursting with seasonal charm, making it ideal for cozy autumn nights, Thanksgiving tables, or even as a savory-sweet appetizer.

What makes this dish shine is the contrast in flavor and texture. The pears turn silky and soft, while the walnuts add just the right crunch. The berries break down slightly during baking, becoming jammy and tart—especially if you go for cranberries or raspberries. And then there’s that crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola, melting into every bite, offering a punchy creaminess that ties the whole dish together.

And the best part? It takes just minutes to prep.

It’s one of those rare recipes that feels luxurious but is secretly simple, and that’s what I love most. With ingredients that are easy to find and steps that are hard to mess up, you get a restaurant-worthy result without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients & Preparation

The Perfect Balance of Simple & Stunning

This dish proves that just a few everyday ingredients can create something downright spectacular. Whether you’re pulling from pantry staples or picking up a few fresh finds, this recipe comes together easily with minimal prep.

Here’s everything you’ll need for your baked pears with berries, honey, walnuts and blue cheese:

 Ingredient Breakdown

Ingredient	Amount
Ripe pears (Bosc or Bartlett), halved and cored	3
Butter, melted	2 tbsp
Honey	2 tbsp
Fresh mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries)	½ cup
Chopped walnuts (lightly toasted)	¼ cup
Crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola	¼ cup
Cinnamon	½ tsp
Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)	To taste

Each element contributes to a vibrant contrast of flavors. The pears provide a juicy base, honey and cinnamon lend warmth, berries bring acidity, and the creamy blue cheese elevates every bite.

 Tools & Substitution Tips

You won’t need much to make this dish shine. Here’s what I reach for every time:

• Small baking dish or sheet pan – lined with parchment for easy cleanup

• Melon baller or small spoon – to neatly core the pears

• Pastry brush – for evenly coating the pears with melted butter and honey

• Oven-safe skillet – works beautifully if you prefer caramelized edges

No blue cheese on hand? Try these tasty swaps:

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• Goat cheese for a milder tang

• Feta if you like it crumbly and salty

• Mascarpone for a rich, creamy finish

If you’re out of walnuts, try pecans or hazelnuts. Both bring a similar crunch and toasty depth.

For a berry alternative, roasted grapes are a fantastic twist—and they’re just as delicious in savory dishes like these maple roasted sweet potatoes with blue cheese and candied pecans.

And if you’re prepping a holiday sideboard, this recipe pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts and butternut squash with maple walnuts and cranberries—the flavor profiles play off each other perfectly.

Cooking Instructions & Tips

Step-by-Step: How to Make Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese

This is one of those recipes that rewards you with very little effort. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor you coax out of just a few ingredients once the oven gets involved.

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with parchment or lightly grease with butter.

Step 2: Halve & Core the Pears
Slice each pear lengthwise and scoop out the core with a melon baller or small spoon. If they don’t sit flat, carefully trim the rounded underside just enough to stabilize them.

Step 3: Add the Filling
Place the pear halves in your baking dish. Brush them generously with the melted butter. Fill each cavity with a spoonful of berries, a sprinkle of toasted walnuts, and crumbles of blue cheese. Drizzle honey evenly over the tops, then dust with cinnamon.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pears are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The honey will bubble, the berries will soften, and the cheese will melt into creamy puddles.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves if using, and serve warm—ideally with the juices spooned from the pan over the top.

 Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Pears

• Choose ripe, but firm pears. If they’re too soft, they’ll collapse while baking.

• Don’t skip the parchment. It makes cleanup effortless and prevents sticking.

• Toast the walnuts first. A quick toast in a dry skillet enhances their flavor.

• Double the honey. If you prefer a saucier finish, add another tablespoon before baking.

Want even more cozy flavor pairings? These warm brie with fig jam, rosemary and almonds appetizers use similar elements and never fail to impress.

For a heartier twist, try caramelized butternut squash with gorgonzola and cranberry balsamic glaze. It’s like the savory cousin of this baked pear recipe!

Serving, Storing & Pairing

What to Serve with Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese

Once these pears emerge from the oven, they’re ready to wow. Serve them warm, right in the baking dish or transferred onto small dessert plates, spooning some of that buttery, honeyed syrup over the top. A little sprinkle of sea salt or an extra drizzle of honey just before serving takes it up a notch.

These are versatile enough to appear as:

• A light dessert after a rich meal

• A savory-sweet appetizer at a fall gathering

• A brunch side, especially when paired with crusty bread and a crisp salad

They’re also gorgeous plated next to something like this pear, brie and cranberry flatbread with thyme — perfect if you’re hosting and want continuity in flavor.

If you’re setting out a holiday spread, try serving them alongside bite-sized crowd-pleasers like these mini phyllo cups with brie, pecans and cranberry drizzle. The combination is visually stunning and full of bold, fall-forward flavors.

And yes — a glass of chilled white wine or prosecco never hurts.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

These baked pears hold up well, which is why I always make a few extra.

To store:

• Let them cool completely, then place in an airtight container.

• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• Place in a small baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes.

• Alternatively, microwave for 30–60 seconds on medium heat — though they’ll lose a bit of texture.

Want to re-purpose leftovers? Chop them up and spoon over oatmeal or pancakes. They also make an excellent topping for toasted sourdough with ricotta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pears instead of fresh?

Fresh pears are best for baking because they hold their shape and release natural juices during roasting. However, in a pinch, you can use canned pear halves—just be sure to drain them well and reduce the baking time by 10–12 minutes.

What’s the best pear variety for baking?

Bosc and Bartlett pears work beautifully in this dish. They’re sweet, firm, and hold their shape without turning mushy. Avoid overly soft or overripe pears, as they may collapse while baking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and assemble the pears a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. Then, just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for dinner parties or holiday meals.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely. Omit the blue cheese and try a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spoonful of dairy-free cream cheese instead. You’ll still get that savory contrast without the dairy.

What can I use instead of walnuts?

Try pecans, hazelnuts, or even pumpkin seeds if you want a nut-free version. Toasted seeds still give that lovely crunch and roasted flavor.

Conclusion

Baked Pears with Berries, Honey, Walnuts and Blue Cheese bring together everything I love about fall cooking: bold flavor, minimal effort, and a presentation that feels special. With just a few simple ingredients, you get a dish that’s earthy, tangy, sweet, and completely unforgettable.

Whether you’re setting the mood for a cozy night in or adding a polished touch to your holiday table, these baked pears never disappoint. Their flexibility and elegant flavor profile remind me of similar pear and cheese combinations like this baked pears with gorgonzola and honey from Happy Kitchen — a delicious variation if you’re ever craving a slightly different twist.

If you’re looking for more seasonal magic, don’t miss my maple roasted sweet potatoes with blue cheese and candied pecans or the ever-popular warm brie with fig jam, rosemary and almonds. Both are perfect partners to this recipe in any fall spread.