Description

A sophisticated yet simple dessert featuring tender baked pears topped with a medley of berries, honey, crunchy walnuts, and tangy blue cheese. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this an elegant finish to any meal.

Ingredients

4 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
1 cup mixed berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries)
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup walnut halves
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the pear halves in a single layer.
Wash and dry the pears. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the core with a melon baller or small spoon, leaving a small indentation. If desired, slice a thin piece off the rounded bottom of each half so they sit flat.
Arrange the pear halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Brush the cut surfaces with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Drizzle half of the honey over the pears. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
While the pears bake, toast the walnut halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until fragrant. Set aside to cool, then roughly chop.
Remove the pears from the oven and fill the center of each pear half with mixed berries. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and crumbled blue cheese over the top.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is slightly softened and the berries are warm.
Drizzle the remaining honey over the pears. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

You can customize the seasonings to taste. For a different flavor profile, try using feta or goat cheese instead of blue cheese. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the honey. To make this vegan, omit the blue cheese and use a dairy-free alternative or simply skip it, and substitute maple syrup for honey.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Method: Dessert
Cuisine: American